ALLYN P-51 Ashtray

[soslipstream]

Hey All,

We have had three major storm fronts pass by Chicago today and I'm writing this after the last round has finally gone through.... The picture shows a vintage ALLYN Sales P-51 Mustang ashtray circa about 1950. Like most of these that come up on the market, this one arrived without prop blades, canopy or molded cockpit. After studying the available reproduction pieces, I ventured forth on my own heading. The original prop blades were lousy. Skinny, pointed with no pitch. Worse yet, if someone tries to extract the original prop assembly, a huge rivet pin stays aboard and rattles inside forever. Not my choice as an option. So, doing some more research I found a resin cuffed prop (late production D models) and hub assembly that were close in scale and featured rounded stubs. I made a functional fixture to hold the airplane and hub then carefully bored out the four holes to accept the stub ends. I then painted the props and glued them in place. I also carved and polished a canopy and using the recommendations here, framed it with Bare Metal Foil. Thanks to all for previous suggestions.

Best Regards,
Tom

[soslipstream]

Therapy apparently is not working......... Just kidding. Here's a group shot of my ALLYN Sales/Aero Novelty P-51 Mustangs. I finally found one that is almost 100% intact (needs a new canopy). The sorry soldier on the right has been a valued asset as it has suffered through the development of a new prop blade hub drilling fixture. Eventually all but 2 will find themselves back in circulation within the year....
Regards, Tom

[grwebster]

No photos, try photobucket

[soslipstream]

GR,
The photo of my Mustang group came up on your reply so it must be there somewhere.
Tom

[grwebster]

tom, this time they were there, go figure.
nice fleet.

[soslipstream]

I've actually entered into a semi-production line format for new prop blades, canopies and decals. Most will come out looking quite "smart". Ladd's already has his hooks in one. It is the second one in the production schedule.

Tom