forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com

WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: Mike Norris on August 23, 2021, 04:28:48 AM

Title: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on August 23, 2021, 04:28:48 AM
Hi all,
I've taken a short break to start the new tool Airfix 1:72nd scale Avro Vulcan B.Mk.2 for a friend who used to be a crew chief on No.44 Squadron at RAF Waddington.
However, as it's not due to be delivered until December, I've made a start on another WW1 aircraft.
This model from 'Roden' will represent the Albatros D.I of Ltn. Dieter Collin of Jasta 2 ’Boelcke’, flying from Berthincourt, September 1916.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/header.jpg)

During 1915 the German Fokker Eindecker fighters were dominant over the current allied aircraft of the time.
Eventually however, better designed fighters, such as the De-Havilland DH.2 of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) and the French Nieuport fighters soon gained the advantage.
The German Idflieg (Inspectorate of Flying Troops) sought better designed fighters from German aircraft companies and protoypes from Halberstadt and Fokker were being test flown by the Spring of 1916.
However these designs, although better, did not surpass the allied aircraft in general performance.
The Albatros Flugzeugwerke Gmbh company, which had only produced two seat aircraft, created what was then considered to be a radical design for a fighter, which was designed by Robert Thelen.
Following the lead of the allied bi-plane fighters, particularly the French Nieuport’s, the prototype Albatros D.I featured a more powerful engine and a streamlined plywood skinned fuselage (semi-monocoque), which differed from it’s contemporaries, which had linen covered structure.
Performance during flight testing was enough for the Idflieg to place an initial order for 50 aircraft with serial numbers D.422/16 to D.471/16.
Although a second batch was ordered with serial numbers D.472/6 to D.521/16, these were never built as the improved Albatros D.II was already in production.
In total, seven units were formed and operated the Albatros D.I, the second unit being Jasta 2, formed at Laguincourt during August 1916 and commanded by Oberleutnant (later Hauptmann) Oswald Boelcke.
The introduction of this aircraft caused concern, especially as it proved superior to the RFC DH.2 fighters.
However, it’s operational career was short and by the end of 1916 the Albatros D.I was being replaced by the newer D.II.
Of the 50 aircraft built, some survived to the end of the war, being used as flight trainers.

This particular Albatros D.I was a pre-production version and had differences to the production aircraft.
An Anemometer was fitted to the forward, starboard interplane strut and the expansion tank for the engine cooling system was located at the front of the forward engine cylinder.
The propeller fitted was an ‘Axial’, rather than the more often fitted ‘Reschke’ type.
The serial number of this aircraft has been stated as being D384/16, but it seems this may not be the case.
Although the aircraft was probably delivered in the standard factory finish, it was later painted in an undefined green colour.
In addition, the white Crossfield of the Balken Cross markings on the upper wing were painted over, leaving the remaining Crossfields intact.

Initially this aircraft was flown by Diether Collin and his personal marking of a white ‘Co’, outlined in black, was added to the fuselage sides, to the rear of the Balken Cross.
Later this aircraft was flown by the Prussian Prince Friedrich Karl, when the markings of Collin were replaced with skull and cross bones on a black background marking.
These were applied to the fuselage sides and the propeller spinner.
On the 21st of March 1917, Prince Karl was wound during combat with DH.2 fighters of No.32 Squadron (RFC).
He made a forced lading between the lines but was shot in the spine as he attempted to reach the safety of his own lines and died of his wounds.
The aircraft was later captured and given the RFC identification of G-17.

On the 13th of August 1918, Diether Collin was severely wounded during combat with Sopwith Camels of No.204 Squadron (RAF) over Bailleul and later that day died of his wounds, aged 25.


Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: gedmundson on August 23, 2021, 12:00:14 PM
Looking forward very much to following this build Mike.
Cheers,
Gary
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: FAf on August 24, 2021, 04:55:07 AM
Great little history lesson and a very nice looking aeroplane! Looking forward to your build.
/Fredrik
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on August 24, 2021, 05:14:01 AM
As always I look forward to you turning this kit into a Masterpiece!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on August 26, 2021, 08:02:24 PM
Hi all,
This particular Albatros D.I was a pre-production version and had differences to the production aircraft.
An Anemometer was fitted to the forward, starboard interplane strut and the expansion tank for the engine cooling system was located at the front of the forward engine cylinder.
The propeller fitted was an ‘Axial’, rather than the more often fitted ‘Reschke’ type.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/diffs.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/tank.jpg)

The production aircraft had a larger, triangular shaped expansion tank located along and above the engine and slightly to the left side (as supplied in the kit).
However, this particular aircraft was a pre-production build and had a conical coolant expansion tank located at the front of the forward engine cylinder.
This was one of possibly only two or three pre-production aircraft with this type of expansion tank.

On production aircraft, with the over engine expansion tanks, it can be seen that a pipe was connected to the top of the expansion tank and up over the leading edge of the upper wing.
My assumption is that this pipe was intended to release to atmosphere, any excess build up of pressure within the cooling system.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/image1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/image2.jpg)

The following photograph is of this particular aircraft after it was recovered from the crash site of the then pilot, Prince Karl.
The photograph shows two pipes routed rearwards over the engine, from the coolant expansion tank.
The Albatros D.I did not have a flush mounted radiator fitted into the upper wing, but had instead 'Windhoff' radiators located on the fuselage sides.
My assumption is that the upper pipe was attached to the upper wing and vented to atmosphere any over pressurization in the cooling system.
The lower pipe was possibly routed down inside the fuselage a cockpit coolant temperature gauge.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/extank2.jpg)

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: rhallinger on August 26, 2021, 11:37:01 PM
Fascinating history and provenance of this aircraft, and helpful photo illustrations, Mike.  Thanks for sharing this.  I will follow with keen interest.

Best regards,

Bob
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on August 27, 2021, 12:33:01 AM
It is good to see this one being built with the correct tank. Many Modelers miss the difference!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Monty on August 27, 2021, 02:37:57 AM
What a great project, Mike, and thank you for the detailed introduction and useful info! I'm looking forward to seeing you work your usual magic on this! Regards, Marc.
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Alexis on August 27, 2021, 06:59:26 AM
Great subject Mike ! following when I can


Alexis
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Borsos on August 27, 2021, 08:28:25 AM
That plane, then taken over by Prinz Friedrich von Preussen, is also on my to do list.
What’s your opinion regarding the extent of the green paint job: upper wings included or upper wings still in green-brown camo? I personally tend to the latter possibility.
Andreas
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on August 27, 2021, 10:31:19 AM
Hi Andreas,
It's difficult to determine if the Albatros D.I of Collin then Prince Karl had the upper surfaces of the wings the same light green colour of the fuselage.
Its thought the undersides were a light blue colour.
This photograph is the aircraft when flown by Collin.
It looks more one colour than the standard green/brown or green/grey/brown colours used on these aircraft.
That said, there could be the faint outline of a different colour?
Remember the white crossfields under the Eisernes Kreuzs was painted over.
(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/collin1.jpg)

The more usual green/brown or green/grey/brown is more noticeable, as in the following photograph.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/twotone.jpg)

Although it may not be definitive, the colour profile by Pearson has the upper surfaces and fuselage light green.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/2-23.jpg)

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: ColonelKrypton on August 27, 2021, 11:30:12 AM
Quote
This photograph is the aircraft when flown by Collin.

It looks more one colour than the standard green/brown or green/grey/brown colours used on these aircraft.

That said, there could be the faint outline of a different colour?

This is an interesting discussion. I have couple of Albatros D.I's in the waiting pile and this has given me food for thought on what I would like to do them.

In the photo it does look like the upper wing might have more than one colour but the lower wing and tail do not, at least when compared to the second photo.

As a model painting the upper wing in multiple colours and the lower wing and tail in a singular colour would make for an interesting visual scheme and no one could prove it incorrect.

cheers, Graham

Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Dave W on August 27, 2021, 04:38:26 PM
Hi Mike

Well this is fun, it's great to follow your Roden Albatros D.1 build because I am making one too! It's an enjoyable build so far but mine will be in a different scheme featuring a plywood fuselage. It's currently in the corner drying after an application of oils.

Your posts and reference images are a great guide and I'm also referring to other Forum builds for tips which is helping a lot.

The trouble is when I'm waiting for oils to dry I twitch about starting another project while I'm waiting and the Special Hobby Morane Saulnier N is calling out from under the bench!

cheers

Dave Wilson
Gold Coast
Australia
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Borsos on August 27, 2021, 05:52:37 PM
Hello again,

the Albatros D. I is one of my all-time favored. It was my first large scale plane that I built in 2016 and although I would do many things differently today, I really love the model in my display cabinet

https://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=7155.0

I had prepaired a dual build of another, Friedrichs, Albatros D. I and an Albatros D. III some months (eternities) ago, but my mojo stopped me from doing so. But this project is just on halt.
I then had collected all the photos I could find on Colins/Friedrichs Albatros D. I in all the publications I have (there might be more around, but I bought everything "Albatros" in the past years...) and I also think that there's no definite answer and much is possible because no one could prove you wrong  :)

What might help is not to look at "Co" as an isolated plane, but to see this machine as part of Jasta 2's early Albatros equipment. When Jasta 2 got their Albatros biplanes in fall 1916, they were not only eager to try out their twin MGs, but they also made experiments how to camouflage these new birds. Obviously brown and green were the pots full of paint these guys received. And the variations in using these paints were wide: there were stippled fuselages and fuselages painted in a solid color (green on "CO", but probably brown on Büttners bird, like depicted on WDF No. 100). Also the wings, especially the white backgrounds of the Eiserne Kreuze were reduced to a thin white line, by solid overpainting or by stippling colors (e. g. Höhnes rudder on 390/16).
Therefore I don't think that "Co" went through a special treatment, but its finish was product of these experimentings. The "reseda green" shade might come from simply mixing green camo paint with white (?)
And when it comes to repainting planes on Jasta level, it is always difficult to repaint upper wings (have a look at all these 1918 planes when they changed from Eiserne Kreuze to Balkenkreuze: Many planes are photographed with fuselage crosses already repainted but with old crosses on upper wings). You had no professional paint shop, but only ladders to climb onto. Famous "le petit rouge" of Richthofen also retained camouflaged (upper) wings, nevertheless it was frequently described as "red plane", just because its fuselage was painted red.

That's the reason why I believe that "Co" wasn't painted entirely green, but retained its camouflaged upper wings (but Grahams idea of green lower and camouflaged upper wings is not only very appealing, but also plausible, as the lower wings were in perfect reach for the painters) -- only the white fields under the crosses were reduced to thin white outlines. But these are only my personal thoughts and theories on this subject  :)

Best regards,
Andreas
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on August 30, 2021, 09:32:11 AM
Hi all,
The engine is completed.
It's the basic kit engine with just a few enhancements, as most will be hidden by the the fuselage.
I've added:
Ignition lead support tubes (1.0 diameter brass tube).
Ignition leads at the spark plugs and magnetos (0.3 mm diameter lead wire).
Coolant expansion tank and pipe (modified WNW engine cylinder and 0.4 mm diameter Nickel-Silver tube and flexible black tube).
Coolant supply pipe from water pump to cylinder integral gallery.
Carburettor control rods (blackened 0.4 mm Brass tube).
Air vale at rear of camshaft housing.
Fuel feed pipes to base of the carburettor.
Spare WNW data plate decals.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/enginedone1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/enginedone2.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: PrzemoL on August 30, 2021, 05:52:31 PM
Great looking Mercedes, Mike! Always a pleasure to follow your builds
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: FAf on August 30, 2021, 06:50:08 PM
Brilliant work! Limited due to visibility perhaps, but so beautiful!
/Fredrik
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Umlaufmotor on August 31, 2021, 12:18:45 AM
Don't forget the valve cover or camshaft cover bolts, Mike. These are good to see at the end.
Great engine!

Servus
Bertl
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on August 31, 2021, 05:58:50 PM
Don't forget the valve cover or camshaft cover bolts, Mike. These are good to see at the end.
Great engine!

Servus
Bertl

Hi Bertl,
Good spot.
I sanded the covers before fitting the overhead pipe and forgot to add bolts back.
Thanks - previous post updated,

Mike.
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Syd Solo on September 01, 2021, 12:48:42 PM
Really like this build, Mike. Your quest for accuracy and photo research is excellent also.

Cheers

Syd
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Early Bird Fan on September 01, 2021, 08:15:46 PM
when you put in that much research it'd be rude not to follow along with this build. The engine looks great and i look forward to seeing the rest of it come together
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 04, 2021, 06:43:44 AM
Hi all,
I'm getting close to the fuselage being closed up.
As is usual, most of this won't be seen, but hey-ho.
I just have to add the flight control lines, engine controls, wiring at the starter magneto and switch and the gun trigger cables.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/fus1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/fus2.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Early Bird Fan on September 04, 2021, 02:14:37 PM
such a shame to close them up when they look this good, superb detail work
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on September 04, 2021, 10:04:51 PM
Outstanding interior work as always Mike. Looking beautiful!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Borsos on September 05, 2021, 03:46:15 AM
Nice interior. Sad that there will be so few to see of it.
Andreas
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 07, 2021, 04:54:45 AM
Hi all,
The fuselage is now closed up with joints filled and sanded.
I've replaced the kit supplied machine guns with equivalent weapons from 'GasPatch'.
The guns and fuselage detail needed modification to fit the guns correctly.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/fus3.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/gun2.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Borsos on September 07, 2021, 05:32:35 AM
Quote from: Mike 'Sandbagger' Norris link=topic=12457.msg233077#msg233077

The following photograph is of this particular aircraft after it was recovered from the crash site of the then pilot, Prince Karl.
The photograph shows two pipes routed rearwards over the engine, from the coolant expansion tank.
The Albatros D.I did not have a flush mounted radiator fitted into the upper wing, but had instead 'Windhoff' radiators located on the fuselage sides.
My assumption is that the upper pipe was attached to the upper wing and vented to atmosphere any over pressurization in the cooling system.
The lower pipe was possibly routed down inside the fuselage a cockpit coolant temperature gauge.

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/extank2.jpg)

Mike

Nice fuselage, but be careful with the MGs. Contrary to their name „08/15“ these MGs were introduced in the first months of 1917. All Albatros D. I and the early D. IIs were equipped with MGs 08. these are clearly visible on your photo of the captured machine and had a bulkier, box-shaped rear part.
(https://www.google.de/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fde.m.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FDatei%3AMG_08-15_Flugzeugversion.JPG&psig=AOvVaw2odkeExPmwuwnrA39NvKBK&ust=1631043106949000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAgQjRxqFwoTCNjvw5uL6_ICFQAAAAAdAAAAABAD)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/MG_08-15_Flugzeugversion.JPG)

Andreas
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 07, 2021, 05:57:09 AM
Hi Andreas,
Good spot - just as well I haven't secured the guns in the fuselage yet.
I'll correct the guns,
Thanks,

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Bughunter on September 07, 2021, 06:00:45 AM
Good point Anrdreas!
Master has three variants of the 08 in 1/32 (not for my 1/48 sccale :( ), beside the 08/15 one.
https://www.scalemates.com/kits/master-am-32-102-spandau-lmg-08--1116875
https://www.scalemates.com/kits/master-am-32-103-spandau-lmg-08--1116876
https://www.scalemates.com/kits/master-am-32-104-spandau-lmg-08--1116877

The third variant 104 seems to be the best match for this Albatros?

Great build as usual Mike!

Cheers,
Frank
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 07, 2021, 06:16:39 AM
Hi Frank,
'GasPatch' also has the resin early 08 as well - just ordered a pair,

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: rhwinter on September 07, 2021, 07:15:57 PM
Lovely thread! Following eagerly…
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: William Adair on September 07, 2021, 09:02:14 PM
Wonderful stuff   :D
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on September 08, 2021, 12:21:04 AM
In Spite of the MG issue your Albatros is looking great. You have done an outstanding job on getting the engine cover/ cockpit coaming to fit! Not an easy task on the Roden Albatri  8)
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 08, 2021, 05:30:55 AM
Hi Rich,
Not so much of a issue with the machine guns as luckily, Andreas (Boros) pointed out my error.
Correct replacements are now on route,

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/08early.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on September 11, 2021, 07:56:13 PM
Hi all,
I'm a bit slower than normal working this model as I'm working another unrelated model at the same time.
In order to sand and fill gaps after fitting the lower wing, some of the surface detail under the lower wing was also removed.
I thought this would be a good opportunity to try the 'Quinta Studios' 3D printed detail set for this aircraft.
To that end I've sanded off the surface details in preparation.
If the 'Quinta' parts don't work out I will revert to the photo-etch detail set I have from 'Part'.

In the meantime I've had to fill the pre-moulded recesses in the fuselage sides, above the lower wing roots.
These are intended for attaching the flying wires, but are not located correctly.
The flying wires for the Albatros D.I were routed through a cover panel on the upper surface of the lower wing root at the fuselage.
The wires passed through a recess below and into the fuselage attachment points.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/recess2.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/recess.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/recess1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig9.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on September 12, 2021, 02:27:32 AM
I always enjoy your clear descriptions of issues and their corrections.
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 02, 2021, 05:42:11 AM
Hi all,
Slower than usual progress on the Albatros D.I (real life got in the way).
I've airbrushed the fuselage and upper surface of the elevator with a mix of Tamiya Cockpit Green (XF73) mixed with White (X2).
It's the closest I could get to the colour profile by Ronnie Barr.
The nose and forward decking panel is Tamiya Medium Sea Grey (XF83).
Next up is the two tone brown/green for the upper surface of the wings and tail plane, which will be covered with clear linen effect 'Aviattic decal..
The undersides will be light blue linen effect 'Aviattic decal.
It'll all be weathered in due course.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/greenon1.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: FAf on October 02, 2021, 05:57:36 AM
Throw in a couple of brown specks and it could pass as chocolate chip mint ice cream! 🍦😁

It will look fantastic though! Very different and definitely eye-catching.
/Fredrik

Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: DaddyO on October 02, 2021, 05:51:27 PM
Really enjoying this thread and the discussions about the original aircraft. Looking forward to more progress

Paul
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 03, 2021, 01:14:30 AM
Lovely Green Mike!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 03, 2021, 05:22:20 AM
Hi all,
Upper surfaces camo painted.
Mixed ‘Tamiya’ J.A. Green (XF13) with White (X2) and Flat Brown (XF10) with White (X2) to an approximate ratio of 80/20.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/camo.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/camowing.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 03, 2021, 05:39:40 AM
Nice colors!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Alexis on October 03, 2021, 07:14:58 AM
Second Ricks Comment  :)


Alexis
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 10, 2021, 03:03:25 AM
Hi all,
Some progress on the Albatros D.I.
The smoothed and grey primed surfaces were clear gloss coated with 'Alclad' Aqua Gloss 600.
The undersides of the wings and tail unit had the ‘Aviattic’ German blue linen (ATT32077) white backed decal applied.
The upper surfaces of the wings and tail unit had the ‘Aviattic’ clear Linen Weave effect (ATT32236) decal applied.
All surfaces were then airbrushed with 'Alclad' Light Sheen (ALC311) lacquer.
The 'Roden' kit supplied decals were as expected very thin and fragile and were easily broken when applied.
Also this particular aircraft had marking not available as decals.
Therefore I inkjet printed all of the decals required onto white decal paper then sealed them with two coats of acrylic sealer.

I decided to try out the 'Quinta Studios’ 3D printed Albatros D.I set (QD32076).
The model raised details were already sanded away before painting.
Due to the time it took for the set to arrive in the UK from Russia (via Poland), I had already closed up the fuselage.
Therefore I only used the Part 1 sheet which had the external details.
These were brush painted to match the surrounding colours on the model parts.
I did not used the two strips on the upper surface of the lower wing roots as they were way too thick.
Instead I used strips of painted photo-etch.

All surfaces were then airbrushed again with 'Alclad' Light Sheen (ALC311) lacquer.
Weathering was applied using the 'Flory Models' Dark Dirt fine clay wash.
All surfaces were then finally airbrushed with 'Alclad' Light Sheen (ALC311) lacquer to seal it all.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s2.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s3.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s4.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s5.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s6.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/s7.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 10, 2021, 03:19:20 AM
Stunning Mike! The fabric decals do add a nice touch to the surfaces!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: WD on October 10, 2021, 08:01:34 AM
Really nice Mike!

WD
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Ernie on October 10, 2021, 11:24:00 AM
Heavens to Betsy, Mike!  Absolutely mind-boggling work.  I am anxious
to see the next bits of your build!  I really like the paint scheme!

Best regards,
Ernie :)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 14, 2021, 08:28:50 AM
Hi all,
I had to correct the fuselage and fin/rudder decals.
New photographs now in the previous post,

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: PrzemoL on October 14, 2021, 07:13:01 PM
Great progress. Those fabric decals are indeed adding a lot of reality.
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 16, 2021, 12:11:49 AM
Hi all,
Just a small update.
I've added photo-etch mesh to the front and rear of the 'Windhoff' radiators.
The photo-etch was heated slightly to create a heated look and then given a dark wash.
I've also added the bottom drain cock, made from 'Taurus Models' engine fuel primer.
Finally I added the radiators upper and lower attachment plates to the fuselage,

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/drainvalve1.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 16, 2021, 12:32:52 AM
That looks great Mike! I will use it for reference when I do Mine  ;D
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 18, 2021, 02:33:06 AM
Hi all,
The rudder, elevator and landing gear has now been fitted.
I've also pre-rigged the various flight and control wires, prior to fitting the upper wing.
The lines are 0.12 mm diameter mono-filament with blackened 0.5 mm diameter Brass tube.
The turnbuckles are from the 'GasPatch' 1:48th scale series.
There is a slight bow one of the rear landing gear struts, which I need to sort out,

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/prerig1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/prerig2.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/prerig3.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/prerig4.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/prerig5.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: FAf on October 18, 2021, 05:56:31 AM
As always, very good looking work! I've borrowed/taken your blackened tubing idea, very simple but clever.
/Fredrik
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 18, 2021, 06:19:18 AM
Hi Fredrik,
I think it looks better than bare brass tube etc, even though it wasn't that colour in real life.
Are you painting the tubes or as I do, immersing in a chemical blackening soloution?

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: FAf on October 18, 2021, 03:04:13 PM
I just to paint them, but switched to chemical blackening a build or two back.

About looks vs reality... sometimes it's better that it looks good than that it looks correct, as correct sometimes looks wrong in a scale model.

The above doesn't stop us from trying our hardest to make it a true replica. 😃 Your work is always a joy to follow and to learn from!
/Fredrik
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 19, 2021, 05:06:59 AM
Another excellent update Mike. You are getting close now  8)
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 20, 2021, 06:20:05 AM
Hi all,
During fitting of the upper wing both front struts of the fuselage cabane strut assembly snapped.
Looking at them it looks like they snapped cleanly and I think along stress points, possibly created during release from the moulds.
So rather than pin and glue them together, I decided to make replacement struts from Brass tube shaped around Brass rod.

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 20, 2021, 08:10:31 AM
Hi all,
During fitting of the upper wing both front struts of the fuselage cabane strut assembly snapped.
Looking at them it looks like they snapped cleanly and I think along stress points, possibly created during release from the moulds.
So rather than pin and glue them together, I decided to make replacement struts from Brass tube shaped around Brass rod.

Mike

Sorry to hear of the issue Mike. It is Odd that Mine were perfect. I found the Mounting of the DI wing to be the easiest Roden Bi Plane wing I ever encountered. Too bad yours was defective. I do have  a Spare set if you have any problems with the brass and copper  8)
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 20, 2021, 07:14:27 PM
Hi Rich,
I'm pretty sure it was stress cracking from mould release.
The plastic is hard and there were no white stress marks around the breaks that normally occur if a part has been bent.
The breaks were clean and sharp.

Thanks for the offer of your spares.
However I've already made and fitted the front struts.
The rear struts, crossbar and fillet plates are next.

Mike
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 21, 2021, 04:45:24 AM
Hi all,
I've replaced the front cabane struts using profiled 1.4 mm diameter Brass tube with internal reinforcing 0.5 mm diameter Brass rod and 0.2 mm thick plastic card.
The remainder is the kit parts,

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/cabane.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Ernie on October 21, 2021, 12:04:57 PM
Beautiful work on the Cabanes, Mike. I'm Really enjoying your build log.

Ernie :)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: kensar on October 22, 2021, 08:38:04 AM
Yes, nice work on those cabanes.  You're probably better off with the ones you made.
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: macsporran on October 22, 2021, 09:02:16 AM
Enjoying this one immensely.
Sandy
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 22, 2021, 09:09:55 PM
Hi all,
The rigging is now complete.
Blackened 0.4 mm and 0.5 mm Brass tube, 'GasPatch' 1:48th scale turnbuckles and 0.08 mm and 0.12 mm diameter mono-filament.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig11.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig12.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig13.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig14.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/rig15.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Borsos on October 22, 2021, 11:59:54 PM
Looking amazing!
Andreas
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 23, 2021, 01:06:14 AM
The rigging looks awesome Mike!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 23, 2021, 04:14:36 AM
Hi all,
Just a few more details to add for this particular aircraft.
Then it's on to the figure and display base.
I've added the bungee suspension cords and tail skid.

What's left to do:
Propeller and spinner.
Exhaust.
Windscreen.
Cooling system vent pipe.
External airspeed indicator.
Mirror and instrument.

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/bungee2.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/windscreen.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/image1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/airspeed.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/instruments.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: DaveB on October 23, 2021, 07:04:07 PM
Amazing good work so far and excellent rigging, Mike

Going to be a stunner when complete

Regards

Dave
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 24, 2021, 01:18:58 AM
I am Looking forward to the finished Masterpiece!
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 27, 2021, 01:15:34 AM
Hi all,
The pilot figure is finished - ‘Wings Cockpit Figures’ leaning pilot (LSK 06).
Painted with a mix of 'Tamiya', 'AK Interactive' and 'Citadel' paints.

I'm just waiting for the case and information plaque to arrive.
Once the display is done I'll post up completed photographs.

Thanks to everyone's encouraging comments, appreciated,

Mike

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/pilot1.jpg)

(https://www.thatoneplease.co/buildlogs/Albatros-D.I/pilot2.jpg)
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: RAGIII on October 27, 2021, 01:19:08 AM
Excellent figure Mike! I have enjoyed your build as always. It inspired Me to pull out MY Encore kit as well as a Roden DIII  8)
RAGIII
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Ernie on October 27, 2021, 11:48:51 AM
The pilot figure is certainly the icing on the cake, Mike.  I'm really
looking forward to the next installment. Well done!

Cheers,
Ernie :)

Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: macsporran on October 27, 2021, 05:44:50 PM
Nice one!
I bet if you take off his hat, he has Danny Zuko's quiff!
(John Travolta in Grease for non cinephiles.)
Sandy
Title: Re: 1:32nd scale Albatros D.I
Post by: Mike Norris on October 29, 2021, 01:31:35 AM
Hi all,
The final photographs are now up in the 'Completed Models' page,

Mike