Monogram 1/48 T-28D Trojan

This model built in 1999 that I made modifications to replicate a S. Vietnamese “Farmgate” T-28D circa 1961. “Farmgate” was the US early entry into Vietnam, and the pilots were US Air Force “advisors” with a required Vietnamese National in the rear seat. The operation began in October 1961 and was disestablished in July 1963.

Originally released in 1956 (my kit was released in1965). It has been offered in many versions over a 70-year history, most recently in 2026 by Revell in Red Bull livery.The kit is typical of a Monogram kit from that period. There were 4 pages of excellent instructions. Panel lines and rivets were typical of that era. The overall shape and dimensions are good for its age.

Construction was straight forward with no problems. Some putty was necessary for the wing to fuselage joint. I made several upgrades, the most involved was cutting away the molded in place engine and replacing it with an R-1820 engine and prop from a Monogram B-17. Lead was added behind the firewall to eliminate tail sitting.

The cockpit was also enhanced with True Detail T-33 seats that were modified and had rear armor plate added. Eduard seatbelt/harnesses and a gunsight were added.

Aluminum tube exhaust stacks replaced the crude molded in place kit stacks. Monogram F-86 wheels and tires replaced the crude kit wheels. Clear red/green nav lights were installed along with a red rotating beacon and white lights on the upper fuselage and rudder. A music wire pitot was installed in the right wing.

Kit napalm and gun pods were used, and True Detail resin100 lb. bombs replaced the kit bombs. The .50-gun barrels were drilled out and painted gunmetal. A retractable antenna seen in photos was made from styrene and attached to the underside. No idea what it was for.

Painting and Markings: The model was painted overall with Model Master Light Gull Gray. Kit decals performed well using warm water. A final coat of Model Master Semi-gloss Clear sealed the decals and provided a nice finish. The anti-glare panel, wing walks and exhaust areas were painted with Testors Flat Black. Light weathering was done with pastels and a soft brush in the direction of airflow.

This old kit that was the only 1:48 T-28 available at the time turned out well and is an example of making a presentable model from a vintage kit, and this one was really old! The kit is still found and everyone should experience building one of these vintage kits to appreciate how the hobby has evolved.

Squadron Signal T-28 in action No. 89

H Davis Gandees

21 April 2026

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