P-38G vs P-38J. Differences?

[imatt88]

Hey all,

 

Just throwing this out there, but I was wondering what, if any the differences are between the J model that Revell has out, and the G model which AFAIK, has never been kitted before..

 

Just curious..

 

Cheers, Ian

[Dave Williams]

The G is similar to the E and F models with the slimmer engine noses instead of the large beard radiators of the J/L series. There are some other differences like the boom radiators and how the turbos are faired in, but the boom noses are the most noticeable difference.

 

Basically, none of early Lightnings have been kitted. Both the Revell and Trumpeter kits are of the late J/L models. To go early, you have to use a conversion (CE or Grey Matter Figures) on the Trumpeter kit.

Edited September 17, 2017 by Dave Williams

[imatt88]

Thanks Dave, I found the Grey Matter Conversions backdate set.

 

I will probably use that when the time comes.

 

Cheers, Ian

[ade rowlands]

Not to hijack this thread but didn't want to start a different thread that was pretty much of the same vein either, but have just got a hold of the Teumoter P-38 which is an L model. However the schemes I like are J models, as far as I can tell the J and L are externally the same save for the rocket firing ability of an L over the J. I know they had different engines too but can the Trumpeter L be built as a J if I leave the rockets off? Thanks.

[imatt88]

That's a good question. I'm curious to see if it can be done.

 

I thought the J had rocket firing abilities

[Dave Williams]

I think the L had the underwing dive flaps.

[ade rowlands]

That's a good question. I'm curious to see if it can be done.

I thought the J had rocket firing abilities

It may well have done. My references on the P-38 are nil at the moment other than what I can glean from the internet. The airframe has always intrigued me and I finally found a Trumpeter kit for a decent price here. It's no big deal really if the differences between a J and L are too great. I'm sure I can find some scheme for an L I like. I

[imatt88]

Ade,

 

That's cool. The reason I started this thread is I found an old LF Models 32nd Lightnings over Portugal decal sheet on eBay.

 

The 38s on the sheet are G models and it made me think what the differences were between the two marks.

 

Fun stuff to think about

[ade rowlands]

I think things changed drastically with the J model, the change in radiator style being the major one but there are sets to backdate the P-38 or make an M model. It's the differences between a J and all that have me at a loss. I know of the slightly different engines on the 2 models I'm just not sure about the dive flaps and rockets and at what point they were introduced. I think the L was the most produced version of them all. I'm drawn to Green over Grey P-38's which as far as I've found so far tend to be J models or earlier. My build is a ways off yet so I haven't really started to gather my refs yet but your thread got me to thinking about it.

[imatt88]

Yeah, mine is too, but when I saw that decal sheet, it got me thinking.

 

I like doing aircraft in different markings and schemes, the more obscure the better.

 

It's something different than the usual 109s, 190s, P-51Ds, P-47's, etc.

 

Cheerd, Ian