Eduard Grumman A-6E TRAM Intruder detail sets. 1:32

[Shar2]

Grumman A-6E TRAM Intruder detail sets

1:32 Eduard

The Trumpeter 1:32 A-6E Intruder has been out for some time now, and whilst it is a super kit straight from the box, Eduard have decided it needs some improvement. They have recently released four sets of etched brass which cover the whole aircraft and the weapons it carries with replacement, and in some areas, additional detail. Naturally, as is the case with most Eduard sets, some of the kit details will need to be removed before the etch can be added, so read the instructions carefully before starting.

Interior Set (32863)
This set consists of two sheets of photo etched brass. The larger of the two, printed in colour provides the larger parts for the cockpit, such as all the different panels that make up the instrument panel, side and centre consoles. The smaller sheet contains a new vent and other smaller parts for the coaming are also included. The canopy is also catered for with new rear view mirrors, handles, overhead console, frame-work and grab handles. The rear under canopy panel receives new rails and panels whilst the rear bulkhead also receives new fixtures and fittings. The ejection seat are fitted with new firing handles, pipework and head box fittings.

Seatbelt Set (32864)
I wish Eduard would include the seatbelts with the interior sets, but no, they’re still separate. I guess it does give the modeller more options. This single sheet of pre-painted tinned etched brass gives the modeller everything to make two very detailed ejection seats. Since some of the seat details are contained in the interior set, this set only provides the seat straps, lap straps and the all important leg restraints. Whilst not overly complex, items such as the buckles make the job of assembly rather fiddly. The time taken though will pay dividends and you will have some extremely good looking straps, and all without the need to paint them.

Exterior Set (32387)
Another two sheet set, which, whilst described as an External set and is pretty comprehensive. The majority of the parts appear to be concerned with the detailing of the various open panels with lots of new ribs and frames for the internal structures. The arrestor hook bay receives new internal panel work, whilst the chaff and flare boxes are fitted with new end plates. There are also a large number of parts to super detail the inner and outer wing fold panels, with pipework, ribs, brackets and panels, along with a very nicely detailed new Ram Air Turbine. The undersides of all the pylons get the Eduard treatment too making them much more realistic, particularly if you want to have your model bare of weapons. Talking of weapons, there are parts for these too, such as the Rockeyes, Mk82s, AGM-84As and AGM-45s.

Undercarriage (32388)
This single sheet set may be named after the areas it’s designed for, but in fact it covers more than that. Yes there are new panels, fixtures, brackets and other items for all three bays and their respective doors, but there are also new fixing rings, tie down points, pipework etc. for the main and nose wheel oleos. The main wheels also receive new brake details whilst the access doors/step interiors are almost completely replaced with new frames and steps.

Conclusion
These sets provide a superb level of detail for the big A-6E Intruder. The etch work is excellent and even the pre-painted sets look great. Just choose how much or how little you wish to add. I’m sure a Big Ed set will be released soon, providing all the sets in one package which does save a little money if you want to go the whole hog. I’m more than happy to recommend these to all, although, you will need to have some experience of working with etched parts, and even in this scale they are quite small.

Review samples courtesy of