forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com
WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Scratch builds => Topic started by: Des on December 04, 2013, 01:22:57 PM
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I have started work on my latest scratch build, this time it will be the 1909 Bleriot XI aeroplane. I started by making the undercarriage/engine support frame, this was done with brasss tube and styrene sheet. I have also made the engine, it is an Anzani three cylinder 25hp engine. A full build log of this model can be found on my website http://www.ww1aircraftmodels.com/page46.html
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-zVKWJcbAyKg/Upm-Ux_ZOWI/AAAAAAAAKmw/aT56hbTR6Iw/s800/bleriot%2520x%252026.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jkdcSlCjQdo/Upm-U7hc8EI/AAAAAAAAKm4/n5PWu6bdDIQ/s800/bleriot%2520x%252028.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Tdw1L2jGigw/Upm-jYAF84I/AAAAAAAAKns/-MDK3D14VQ4/s800/bleriot%2520x%252037.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o5bcUrllQMI/Upm-pVzhZwI/AAAAAAAAKoM/PYezeEUcLnM/s800/bleriot%2520x%252042.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Y2WI6GPLgPY/Up6K-QtFGaI/AAAAAAAAKqY/uXut8E9WMXQ/s800/bleriot%2520x%252050.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MHxu6TP3ipo/Up6K_sBVAWI/AAAAAAAAKqs/pM9_ZJEo1vA/s800/bleriot%2520x%252054.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JBBe6JolBjY/Up6LAqquLaI/AAAAAAAAKrA/kdXEM_G71yA/s800/bleriot%2520x%252056.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aEJvhPytsAo/Up6LAhR-WkI/AAAAAAAAKrE/p3LPSp7Aim0/s800/bleriot%2520x%252057.jpg)
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Beautiful little engine there Des, your scratch builds continue to inspire!!
Andrew
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Yes! Des, I've been looking forward to you starting this one. That Anzani is absolutely brilliant. I can't wait to see you work your magic on my favorite pre-war aeroplane.
Cheers,
Bud
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Superb craftsmanship as usual and great choice of subject.
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Des,
Absolutely beautiful skill and fine craftsmanship my old friend. Your Ansani a little gem. I'm very much looking forward to following this latest awesome project.
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Thanks very much for your kind comments, this is an aeroplane I have always wanted to model in 1:32 scale.
I have mounted the engine into the frame, I used 0.7mm wide strips of brass sheet to use as the engine mountings, they hold the engine quite well.
Des.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4xqPMuf9ZHs/Up7B4fkweRI/AAAAAAAAKsI/dbLc4HtidAA/s800/bleriot%2520x%252061.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LKQTMIG0vFc/Up7B5HJGS6I/AAAAAAAAKsU/i-LBKvRJl7E/s800/bleriot%2520x%252063.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-W-KKSw3xSAg/Up7B54lUZCI/AAAAAAAAKsk/QDXd7N-RyvU/s800/bleriot%2520x%252065.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-2O1Y4IYolas/Up7B4X8EQyI/AAAAAAAAKsQ/cpNTj2CE6i0/s800/bleriot%2520x%252062.jpg)
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Two eyes firmly fixed on this thread :o
Thanks for the inspiration, Des!
Keep us updated.
Cheers,
VB
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Great job, Des! The engine is super. I'm happy you picked the Bleriot, a favourite
early aeroplane of mine. With your talents, it will be a stunner.
I'll enjoy following along with your project.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Fantastic work, Des, the engine is incredible in it's detail. Another "show stopper" in progress!
Cheers,
Lance
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What a wonderful engine.
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Incredible - I thought that your engine for the Spinne was amazing - this one is equally so. I am certain that this is going to be another of your fantastic builds - I will be watching very closely indeed.
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Fantastic engine.
Again, I will peeped at Your work :D
Jacek
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Absolutely amazing Des!!! The Anzani looks marvellous. I am truly a fan of your scratch built models. It`s going to be an another museum quality build,
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This is one of my favorites Des. Glad to see you at it. I'll be visiting the build log on the main page to get all of the details. The Anzani looks marvelous. As always, superb craftsmanship. ;D
Regards,
Bob
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Excellent choice of subject Des, I'm looking forward to watching this one develop - especially to compare your methods to my 1:72 effort!
Ian
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wow - super cool subject and fantastic start!
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Wow out of the gate fast!! Great looking motor. Looking forward to more updates!!
Steve
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Thanks guys for all your very nice comments, much appreciated.
Just a quickie update. I added the undercarriage suspension, just a simple matter of adding four small springs. I also fitted the two bracing belts to the frame work.
Des.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kpDR-X9PN8w/Up_7g7qtINI/AAAAAAAAKtY/CmERCRsRJDs/s800/bleriot%2520x%252068.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-sGLcYLawEoQ/Up_7hiILPdI/AAAAAAAAKtk/HTVOWymYBg8/s800/bleriot%2520x%252069.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ClPP8h7dT6E/Up_7g1SAVvI/AAAAAAAAKtU/K-TJTf9iurw/s800/bleriot%2520x%252067.jpg)
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just a simple matter of adding four small springs...
Simple? did you wind the springs from scratch or were suitable sized springs available? Either way they look spot on!
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Ready made springs Ian, I have a collection of very small springs of various sizes.
Des.
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Another incredible project to stun us all Des!
The springs looks spot on, but I have a question - I think I saw a version with bungee cords (is this the right word?) instead of the 2 springs and a bigger spring over the metal "leg" that is between the springs. Is this a matter of particular aircraft or an early - late version maybe?
Best regards,
Sasho
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WOW! That construct appears to be 1:1 Des! ;) Extraordinarily well done my friend. ;D
Regards,
Bob
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You are correct Sasho about the bungee cords, I have plenty of photos of this aeroplane and there was quite a variation of systems used for the suspension, I chose the springs because I have the springs on hand and I like the look of the springs, it is hard to simulate bungee cords. There is also a photo showing a large spring over the main undercarriage leg, so we had springs like I have used, bungee cords, single large springs.
Des
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Looking great so far :)
Every time I look at a "W.I.P." here, I get "performance anxiety" (LOL).
Jim J. -- "olfogey"
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are those cylinders from the wnw re8 kit? i remember when i noticed the extras in the kit that i thought the exact same thing. i can use those to make an anzani if i want for a bleriot scratcher. i really cant wait to see this gal unfold. i love a bleriot.
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Yes Scott, you are spot on with the cylinders, all the left overs from the WnW kits come in very handy when scratch building. The cylinders are not the correct style for the Anzani but if not examined too closely they are near enough.
Des.
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Hello Des
I too wondered about the cylinders. This is all shaping up beautifully - exactly what we have come to expect from a master of the craft !
Best wishes
Nigel
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Hello Des,
As always I wonder how you do it. I like this plane very much and will be following this build, which will be amazing as always.
Kind regards
Patrick
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Excelence taking shape! More will follow just in a few moments! :P
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I have made the fuselage frame from 1.0mm x 1.0mm styrene strips, it is a fairly basic design. I also added the front undercarriage/engine support frame work to the fuselage frame, it all fitted together reasonably well. Next job is to paint the frame a wood colour.
Des.
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-VfwYMO61ENY/UqJzjfR08qI/AAAAAAAAKuw/2RSOBNlsXeg/s800/bleriot%2520x%252070.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-if-iPuWP33Q/UqJzjcvRyfI/AAAAAAAAKu0/lMHWvVMnbxI/s800/bleriot%2520x%252072.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Q9-lHWV-5qA/UqJzkOkKDUI/AAAAAAAAKvA/2CplaUYfPog/s800/bleriot%2520x%252073.jpg)
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Nice job of the fuselage frame, Des. It will really look the business when
you get the woodgrain on. Your wood treatments are absolutely sublime,
by the way. Great fun following your build, my friend.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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did the one that did the crossing have the 3rd wheel or was it one with that little interfolded "U" shaped tail skid?
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The channel crossing Bleriot had the third wheel. When Louis Bleriot landed at Dover he did a very heavy landing and broke the undercarriage and snapped the propeller, they had to do some pretty hasty repairs so they could display the aircraft in London. The photo shows the damaged aircraft, this was taken before the crowds arrived.
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sboQ9Oj-CEA/UqLLiQXeTHI/AAAAAAAAKvU/ZUV40eRJfaY/s800/bleriot_003_500.jpg)
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I have added some colour to the fuselage frame, I used artist oils mixed with Liquin and painted it directly onto the white styrene, the Liquin will help speed up the drying process. I might hit it with a light coat of clear orange but I will wait until it is dry then decide.
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c7n9VboAedQ/UqLQZsp5F4I/AAAAAAAAKv0/JFqY_LCsWis/s800/bleriot%2520x%252075.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-V-a_AM80DTQ/UqLQZmKbNCI/AAAAAAAAKv4/0t96ZeqmGDY/s800/bleriot%2520x%252076.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mX4zhydRC38/UqLQaTDzIBI/AAAAAAAAKwE/kAeB9TDMb5Y/s800/bleriot%2520x%252077.jpg)
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Des,
She's looking outstanding my old friend.I'm very pleased with the wood works too.I agree a light coat of clear orange will add to her finish.Looking forward to more.
Highest Regards, Gregory Jouette
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Gorgeous work on the frame, Des! Really starting to look like a Bleriot now.
Cheers,
Bud
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Wow again this is really moving along and looks great!!!!!
Steve
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While the oil paint is drying on the fuselage frame I made the two fuel tanks. The short one with the longer filler neck is the main fuel tank while the long pointy one is the auxiliary fuel tank which was used for the channel crossing. Both tanks were turned down from 10.0mm brass rod, the main tank is 9.0mm in diameter while the auxiliary tank is 8.0mm in diameter, I still need to make and fit the taps.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZioEacWgCXA/UqQowJBcrXI/AAAAAAAAKws/NwKJRJafcmA/s800/bleriot%2520x%252080.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-TaeVI7D3RUE/UqQowLI_vRI/AAAAAAAAKwo/8e3EARhjmz8/s800/bleriot%2520x%252079.jpg)
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Those fuel tanks are extraordinary, Des! This is all shaping up to be a real beauty.
Best wishes
Nigel
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As ever Des' ... following one of your builds is both an inspiration and an education. If you see some fleeting movement from the corner of your eye ...... that'll be me!
Applause from this corner of the globe.
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Des,
Your framework is excellent as always and the tanks are beautiful! I am looking forward to more of your magic!
RAGIII
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Des,
Your framework is excellent as always and the tanks are beautiful! I am looking forward to more of your magic!
RAGIII
Ditto to my amigos comments !!!
Ed
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Fabulous work on the frame Des and these tanks are magnificent. The Blériot will be outstanding!
Kind regards
Patrick
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Outstanding work!
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This is yet one more modelling masterpiece in the making. Thank you for this feast to our eyes.
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Beautifully engineered tanks & nice framework, Des
;)
VB
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Some art to celebrate your build Des
(http://www.galerie123.com/posters/a0813//bleriot-traverse-la-manche-en-1909.jpg)
(http://www.aviatorsandaircraft.com/Artwork/BleriotMonoplane1909.jpg)
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_eYRxBRh4fJ4/Spaih4YWtmI/AAAAAAAADrQ/m85ZoodIWRU/s400/france_Louis_Bl%C3%A9riot.jpg)
Have you seen this book Des?
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo2LYhZ0dVs/UGoupgQr3eI/AAAAAAAAAao/vfFBYZfJZRE/s1600/Glorious.jpeg)
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Stunning work as always Des, superb.
Cheers
Pete.
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Superb Des!
Cheers
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Thanks very much for all the kind words, they are much appreciated and thanks for the art work James, very fitting.
Des.
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After a lay-off for a few days I finally got back to the bench today. I fitted the turnbuckles and rigging to the sides of the fuselage frame, still need to do the top and bottom of the frames. I also fitted the main and auxiliary fuel tanks and the small floor in the cockpit, using solid brass for the fuel tanks has added quite a lot of weight to the model.
Des.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W55MsCvcjuM/UqrdCcsPg8I/AAAAAAAAK2g/y4qa25WyFNA/s800/bleriot%2520x%252087.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-txE0LbMAzTU/UqrdC-hvVXI/AAAAAAAAK2s/9GGVlhRM5s8/s800/bleriot%2520x%252090.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-8dWnCZa-AOo/UqrdCSCYnlI/AAAAAAAAK2U/vQ8AvcTnLDw/s800/bleriot%2520x%252089.jpg)
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Great modelling, Des. I know, I am repeating myself, but your recent scratch-builds deserve many more repetitions. It is a pleasure to admire your work!
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Hello Des,
(Wonderful)9
Kind regards
Patrick
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Man! I look at your work here, as with every other scratch build project of yours, and I never cease to marvel at the dexterity you must have. In this case, your fuselage framework looks so clean and precisely square. If I was doing it, there would be blobs of glue here and there with uprights at every angle except 90°. :o How did you manage to get that the rounded framework in the pilot's position so nice and regular looking? Beautiful workmanship!
Cheers,
Chris
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Wonderful work Des. As usual your standards are of the very highest which mere mortals like me can only aspire to - but then you are an inspiration.
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Gad Des, the Bleriot is looking so good! The engine and fuel tank are superb and
the interior rigging looks perfect. Are the turnbuckles brass tube? This is such
an interesting project.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Chris - the piece of plastic strip used to form the curved section of the cockpit was simply cut to length then placed inside the fuselage framework, it formed its own circular shape.
Ernie - The turnbuckles are 0.5mm brass tube cut to 2.0mm in length, I insert an eyelet into each end, these are made from twisted 0.13mm copper wire with a 0.3mm eye, CA holds them well into the brass tube.
Des.
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I have only taken a few small steps lately but at least it is forward progress. The seat, which is a very basic tube frame and timber seat, has been fitted along with the rudder bar made from a tooth pick and the control column, the wheel did not rotate but was pushed side to side and forward and back just like a control column. I also added the rear wheel support post and I glued a sheet of 0.25mm styrene sheet to one side of the fuselage just to add a bit of rigidity to the fuselage frame, the transparency looks pretty good :)
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LTc9-xElrfo/UrFbkdwL0gI/AAAAAAAAK5Q/7V_KnHYStIc/s800/bleriot%2520x%252097.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-llQlXhembQk/UrFblG50gPI/AAAAAAAAK5k/bhAJYJZ3qqg/s800/bleriot%2520x%252098.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A9RzqaeKHPY/UrFblR3smCI/AAAAAAAAK5g/-HWaL6KYrU0/s800/bleriot%2520x%252099.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hAztSXz_cJY/UrFbkT3G2UI/AAAAAAAAK5U/RicDWcO0oc8/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520100.jpg)
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Hello Des,
Very nice work on the seat and control "stick". The transparency looks really great, like the real thing. What a wonderful build this is again. Many congratulations.
Kind regards
Patrick
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The bracing looks exquisite Des and those tanks are beauties. After all that painstaking work, I can well imagine that you'd want to move onto another aspect of the build.
Cheers,
Chris
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Lovely work Des. I never thought that I'd find such interest in a Bleriot
Best wishes
Nigel
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Beautiful work, Des. The "cockpit" is really taking shape, the woodgrain on
the floorboards looks just right. I am really impressed with the side panels...
they look like the real thing with just about perfect translucency. Wonderful
progress, my friend.
Cheers,
Ernie:)
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Fantastic work as usual Des. That side panel looks just the part - I had wondered how you would solve that particular problem. Another masterpiece is clearly in the making.
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Truly remarkable work, Des! She's shaping up beautifully. The translucency of the side panel looks fantastic.
Cheers,
Bud
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Des,
The Bleriot grows more awesome with each new update my old friend. I really like the plastic sheeting for her fabric, surely looks much better than using tissue for the fabric. I tried using tissue on the Voisin as a test,needless to say it turned out awful . I had to soak the stuff off with warm water to get it all off too. Oh well live and learn as they say. Looking forward to the next Outstanding update.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Des, I thought that you and others might be interested to see some pictures of the Bleriot Memorial: the official site where Bleriot landed after his cross channel flight in 1909. The site is known as Northfall meadow but alas it is no longer a meadow as it is now almost completely overgrown with trees as this photo shows:
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p555/stevef100/bleriot%20memorial/DSCF1517_zps8270cf55.jpg)
The site of the landing lies approximately 200 meters to the right of the castle keep (central tower) in this picture, and is in a small valley to the east of the castle: when Bleriot landed there it was a grass field as the contemporary photos show. It would seem from those photos that Bleriot had tried to land in the flatter fields to the right (east), above the meadow, but ran over the level ground and then down the slope (about 12 -15 degrees) where the undercarriage broke under the strain. We know that he approached Dover from the east or south-east because on his flight he became disoriented in fog or low cloud and flew too far to the east. The place where the aeroplane presumably came to rest is marked by an outline made of granite blocks with an inscribed stone set into it:
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p555/stevef100/bleriot%20memorial/DSCF1513_zps5651988c.jpg)
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p555/stevef100/bleriot%20memorial/DSCF1509_zps5d32fa8d.jpg)
Alexander Duckham was a member of the Aero Club. Today there is a car park nearby and a path to the clearing in the trees from where the castle can still be easily seen. The bank in the background in the photos where the crowds have assembled is below the outer wall of the eastern side of the castle, which is immediately to the right of the keep in my first photo. The landing site is only about 200 meters from the cliff edge so he only just made it! I suppose that this site is slightly more glamorous than that of an Irish bog which marked the end of another famous crossing just 10 years later: it is certainly visited more often and is much more accessible.
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Thanks for posting the photos, LM. Nice to see where it actually
took place.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Thanks LM for posting the photos, it is nice to see the memorial set in stone. I also believe that Louis Bleriot was suffering a severe foot injury at the time, apparently he had crashed an aeroplane a bit earlier and when he exited the wreckage he stepped on the red hot exhaust pipe burning his foot very badly, he was on crutches for a long time, so to fly the channel with a very painful foot was quite a feat.
Des.
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Great looking updates Des and thanks for the intersting tie in photos LM
Steve
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I completed the remainder of the fuselage rigging and added the other "fabric" side. I also made and instrument and a switch and mounted them inside the cockpit. The top rigging mast is also finished, apart from paint, and is fitted in position and rigged, it is a very solid assembly. Not a huge update but what I have done over the past few days has been very time consuming and fiddly.
Des.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0asqSLrMFpc/Urax8l7-78I/AAAAAAAALAc/-xQn-TdSbv4/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520107.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-6FMKs3hTsPw/Urax8p8XwoI/AAAAAAAALAk/OcdAtQ-ckBM/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520108.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fKm2pKFEA4U/Urax9cEp87I/AAAAAAAALAs/M-FUHQkxu54/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520110.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-zxBO_evuA4Q/Urax9xLLIHI/AAAAAAAALBA/3fL7xpCpTYE/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520112.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QZ9-Se8nclQ/Urax96ORkHI/AAAAAAAALA8/ZZ4XBrSYuoI/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520111.jpg)
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Simply extraterrestrial Des. Can't believe my eyes.
Kind regards
Patrick
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Your modelling never ceases to amaze me - outstanding work.
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Dear Des
So often your scratch builds leave me lost in admiration. I suppose it's pie in the sky but I would so love to see your work published in glossy hard copy. Sometimes, being able to read or even flick through a booklet can be so pleasurable, and left on the coffee table would, I'm sure, interest my non-model-making friends.
Best wishes
Nigel
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I'm impressed, very nice it looks !
Jacek
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What can one say! This continues to be your USUAL ABSOLUTELY OUTSTANDING work!!!!
RAGIII
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I agree wholeheartedly with what everyone has said here. Des is a master modeller and an inspiration to all of us.
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Thanks very much for all the wonderful comments, they are greatly appreciated.
Not much work done over the festive season, managed to get the tail plane and rudder made, painted and fitted. The unusual elevator set-up is displayed here with the elevators in a slightly down position. Please excuse the photos not being of good quality, I am running-in a new camera and still have to work out all the settings.
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-08-6LLkqG2k/Ury0AmFXOoI/AAAAAAAALFg/0szRtH5dBnc/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520121.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FvxtgsEIYb4/Ury0AsB-_YI/AAAAAAAALFo/bipu5KoqdW8/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520122.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ptXSM3JPd3U/Ury0Bz9Rv9I/AAAAAAAALGE/KhNgpgw3efo/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520124.jpg)
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The tail feathers look spectacular and the photos look fantastic, Des. Your "not being good quality" photos are better than my best, final photos. I need lessons.
Cheers,
Bud
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WOW! This one is looking really great Des (like all the other "one of a kinds" you've scratched up of late!) If ever I've seen motivation to step outside the "lines of a normal Kit Build" it's your recent Scratch Builds. Great work!
Cheers,
Lance
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The tail feathers look spectacular and the photos look fantastic, Des. Your "not being good quality" photos are better than my best, final photos. I need lessons.
Cheers,
Bud
Ditto to what my Amigo said!!
RAGIII
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Dear Des
So often your scratch builds leave me lost in admiration. I suppose it's pie in the sky but I would so love to see your work published in glossy hard copy. Sometimes, being able to read or even flick through a booklet can be so pleasurable, and left on the coffee table would, I'm sure, interest my non-model-making friends.
Best wishes
Nigel
I'd go for that book!! :)
Jim J. -- "olfogey"
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tail looks absolutely spectacular. one question are the side fabric panels to be left white? if wondered if they were to be painted a creamy cdl tone or if that craft was painted white.
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The side fabric will be painted the same as the tail but with pre-shading, that is my next job.
Des.
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Sorry guys but I'm just trying out my new camera, just wanted to see what the photos look like on the forum.......
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-w47OMr5xPDM/Ur0_nNdfAMI/AAAAAAAALGo/XLpZnP_iq1Y/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520132.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-eHeBTlP92LI/Ur0_nJS2YQI/AAAAAAAALGk/OcV0tbUzdEM/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520133.jpg)
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Magnificent Des, a joy for the eye once again. Your collection of scratch builds will be an execeptional one and certainly deserves to be made immortal by being edited in a book (your other models as well naturally). I'm looking forward for your "Bataille" build, can't wait!
Kind regards
Patrick
PS : your getting on very well with your new camera!
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It's such fun to see what your talents can bring us, des. The Bleriot
is looking wonderful. Amazing job, and the new camera seems to work
great!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Des,
What can I say other than she just get more and more awesomer which each update. Absolutely outstanding to date my old friend.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
Happy New Year to You and Yours
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I have painted the two side panels to match the tail, I did the pre-shading with a lead pencil which highlights the frame and the bracing wires, also, if you look hard, the turnbuckles.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ploV2gfbYLw/Ur1amksVnZI/AAAAAAAALHQ/yNGIwHP-UAU/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520135.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-WW4yicKYaGc/Ur1amYiPSGI/AAAAAAAALHU/0_HD2gFPBt4/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520134.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DM8HzNMc1gk/Ur1amumvQlI/AAAAAAAALHY/8wq0W41lbv4/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520136.jpg)
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Really looking good, Des. Your paint and shading of the side
panels is superb, my friend. Extremely well done as is the whole
model. I'm anxious to see the next updates!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Beautiful work Des! You make it look so easy and we all know it is not ;D
RAGIII
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I can't believe, that it is model, not real plane.
Adam.
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Excellent execution Des. Your techniques bring perfect results!!
Steve
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I agree with Adam. I want to know where Des found a prototype replica being built in a pristine white hanger? ;).
Regards,
Bob
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Speechless, again!
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Thanks very much for all the nice comments, I feel very humbled.
I made the rear wheel today, it's a 24 spoke wheel laced up with 0.1mm monofilament, the rim is a plastic ring and the 24 spoke holes where drilled through the rim, the hub is a short length of 1.5mm brass tube. All the rear wheel 'undercarriage' frame is made up from 0.5mm copper wire, I still need to add two more bracing struts. The channel crossing Bleriot XI had the auxiliary fuel tank at the rear of the fuselage so the rear wheel was locked in position, it was not steerable.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CoHWSH_6xho/UsACiQK7L_I/AAAAAAAALJA/u1uPv-uNPa4/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520140.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_MZF0EXfmlU/UsACiigUuUI/AAAAAAAALJE/D4WlKfStIeM/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520142.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rjYm1IE_eMY/UsACjuPkGjI/AAAAAAAALJQ/XJwFmU4cYgY/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520143.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y2AHpLz5gfM/UsACiWsF36I/AAAAAAAALI8/6W3uCEQZ4H4/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520141.jpg)
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Words fail me Des. Wonderful!
Kind regards
Patrick
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That tail wheel is absolutely stunning, Des. Amazing work.
I'm running out of adjectives, my friend, and still much to come. Wow!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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THAT is just gorgeous modeling!!!
Jim J. -- "olfogey"
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I agree with all that has been written: what else can I write? Brilliant!
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Truly spectacular in every way, Des! Can't wait to see the wings on her.
Cheers,
Bud
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wunderbar! :)
VB
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I made the two main wheels today, these are fairly simple straight spokes with very narrow rims, just like a bicycle. The photos show the wheels as being quite large, they were actually 28" so compared to the rear wheel they are big, as can be seen the tyres still need to be fitted, I will be using O Rings which I hope to get tomorrow when shops open again after new year. The rims are plastic with the holes drilled for the spokes, the hub is brass tube with styrene washers through which I drilled the holes for the spokes, the spokes are 0.1mm invisible thread and it is all held together with CA.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vce9TwP8WDQ/UsNFHj9bqmI/AAAAAAAALJ4/Uf-T5eCTvZ0/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520145.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eeoE8CbuPxc/UsNFHiRVu2I/AAAAAAAALKA/PxKifqdROEE/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520146.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Hw5nFMlzOd0/UsNFHvK4UCI/AAAAAAAALJ8/iTiC36MYtYs/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520147.jpg)
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Super work on the wheels, Des!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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You must have the patience of a saint to tackle the things you do. Simply superb workmanship. I popped over to your build log on your main site to see how you made the rims. Heck, I couldn't even cut the plastic straight let alone drill 24 holes equally spaced around the wheels!
Cheers,
Chris
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Extraordinary job on the wheels, Des. I really must overcome my inherent laziness and give that a try...someday.
Cheers,
Bud
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I managed to fit the main undercarriage tonight, once the glue had set it ended up as being quite a strong assembly. I still need to do some more work on the main support arms but this willbe a little fiddly. As you can see the wheels are very narrow so I had to find narrow O Rings for the tyres.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Nc121dWrfHw/UsUu8xCobEI/AAAAAAAALKw/5tvPPvbUe5U/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520148.jpg)
(https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-DJaZpYGmZOc/UsUu89UnSZI/AAAAAAAALKk/_aHiZYEW5ig/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520150.jpg)
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3mh_o7UscnI/UsUu99hdNNI/AAAAAAAALLA/zNj9kdXzTJw/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520153.jpg)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-d4cS991Q-ys/UsUyJYJMoMI/AAAAAAAALMA/cGhhDcwbQbM/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520158.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--wUk47JIYKo/UsUu80e4XDI/AAAAAAAALKo/V1QmuVIifYg/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520151.jpg)
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Des, these wheels are really great! I'm looking forward to see the wings installed. Amazing build!
Kind regards
Patrick
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Unbelievable work Des, and at such a terrific pace too..
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I can see you're enjoying yourself with this build, Des ;)
That makes two of us!
VB
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I can see you're enjoying yourself with this build, Des ;)
That makes two of us!
VB
Make it three or more. We could call this one "The Incredible Journey", what a pleasure to follow!
Cheers,
Lance
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The wheels and tires are excellent! This continues to be another AMAZING build!
RAGIII
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Des, the way you build it I'd almost trust this Bleriot to get me across La Manche (the English Channel) - though I would need scaling down a bit.
What I like so much about your scratch work is that despite the challenges, you always give such a commanding sense of vision. For me, this makes the Spinne and this Bleriot much more than the beautiful individual parts and sub-assemblies.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Sitting on it's wheels, the Bleriot is really starting to look the business Des. It
is such a pleasure taking a close look at your stunning efforts. More, please. ;) ;D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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I've said this before, but what I love about your models is the way you manage to explain visually how the original works, instead of say, making a scale impression of "busy-ness and complexity". There is a big difference between the two. Case in point is the forward undercarriage here. By choosing springs instead of bungees, and the careful way you have arranged and colored the components, it is utterly clear how this contraption worked -- more so than even looking at a photo of the real thing.
Super.
I agree wholeheartedly with Bo on this, Des. This is why I always refer to your builds when working on mine. It's the next best thing to detailed walk-around photos of the real thing.
Cheers,
Bud
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Thanks very much guys for all the very kind comments, they are much appreciated.
I have added the bottom rigging frame, it was made from four lengths of 0.8mm brass tube. I also fitted the wing warping actuating arm and the two pulleys for the warping cables. Hard to see here but I fitted the two anti shimmy shock springs to the undercarriage. The paper wrapped around the fuselage is there to protect the paint while I man handle the model, stops the paint getting dirty.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RGncwYnCg3M/UsakS48TSdI/AAAAAAAALMo/5z4wa9f95zg/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520162.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-isS9GrjD62U/UsakSwXTWnI/AAAAAAAALMs/drAenvHA0Aw/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520163.jpg)
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Ruddy marvellous ....................... I can't think of anything else to put! Not that would do this justice. When one has run out of superlatives there's only weapons grade Anglo-Saxon left left! ... And I do believe we're about at that point.
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Just think of all the work you could have saved by modelling this as it appeared AFTER arriving in Dover! ;)
I see you're leaving the most fun part until last - threading the tail surface control cables through the interior to the tail fittings.. :o
Great work Des!
Ian
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More stunning work Des. This is a joy to watch!!
Steve
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thats looking like a bleriot replica to me. very very nice stuff des.
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Superb Des.
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Hi Des
Could you tell me which plan you are using for this build. I bought an Amati wooden kit of this aeroplane and it has rectangular fuel and oil tanks and something that is supposed to be a floatation bag where you have put the extra tank at the back end of the fuselage. I've held off starting this model until I got some accurate plans. Any pointers to the correct plans would be welcome.
Cheers
Andrew
Thanks very much guys for all the very kind comments, they are much appreciated.
I have added the bottom rigging frame, it was made from four lengths of 0.8mm brass tube. I also fitted the wing warping actuating arm and the two pulleys for the warping cables. Hard to see here but I fitted the two anti shimmy shock springs to the undercarriage. The paper wrapped around the fuselage is there to protect the paint while I man handle the model, stops the paint getting dirty.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-RGncwYnCg3M/UsakS48TSdI/AAAAAAAALMo/5z4wa9f95zg/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520162.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-isS9GrjD62U/UsakSwXTWnI/AAAAAAAALMs/drAenvHA0Aw/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520163.jpg)
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Hi Andrew,
I sourced the plans for my Bleriot build from the net, once I found appropriate drawings I downlaoded them then scaled them to 1:32 scale to suit my purpose. As you probably realise there were many different variants of the Bleriot all being a little different to the previous one, also there are replica aircraft which have been build using different engines and fittings. All this adds to a lot of confusion when trying to build a particular model of the channel crossing Bleriot XI. The research I did shows a photo of the aircraft after it had crash landed in Dover, the main undercarriage had collapsed and the propeller was snapped, but it does show the rear fuel tank. I have read where there was a flotation device at the rear of the aircraft but I could not find any evidence of this. The main fuel tank on my model is cylindrical as per the plans I am using, it had rounded blunt ends, the rear fuel tank was also cylindrical but has pointed ends.
My model is probably not 100% accurate in the eyes of the rivet counters but as a representation of the channel crossing Bleriot it is pretty close. If you like I can send you copies of what plans and drawings I have, it may help you somewhat, if you feel you want to do this please send me your mailing (postal) address to my email at [email protected] I am only too happy to help.
This photo shows the damaged Bleriot with Louis Bleriot standing beside his aircraft, the guy with the flag is obscuring the view of the rear fuel tank but it is just visible to his right under his right arm, the pointed rear end is quite visible, I could not imagine any type of flotation device having pointed ends. The position and shape of the rear tank coincides with the drawings I have. (click the photo for a slighlty larger image)
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-sboQ9Oj-CEA/UqLLiQXeTHI/AAAAAAAAKvU/ZUV40eRJfaY/s800/bleriot_003_500.jpg)
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Absolutely superb Des, beautifully realised and constructed :)
Andrew
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Just amazing! :o
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Just amazing! :o
AGREED!
RAGIII
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Another masterpiece in the making! Bravo Des!!
Mark
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Thanks very much for all your kind words.
Andrew, the plans and photos are heading your way via airmail, hope they help.
I have the wings mostly made, just need to add the ribs to the port wing then painting will commence, hopefully I will have some photos in a few days.
Des.
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Hi Des
Thanks very much for the heads up. I have attached a couple of pics to show you what I meant about the rectangular fuel and oil tank that comes with the Amati model.
Cheers
Andrew
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Thanks very much for all your kind words.
Andrew, the plans and photos are heading your way via airmail, hope they help.
I have the wings mostly made, just need to add the ribs to the port wing then painting will commence, hopefully I will have some photos in a few days.
Des.
Hi Des
Here's another photo.
Cheers
Andrew
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Thanks for the photos Andrew, I have sent you an email with two photos showing the two different style fuel tanks, it is very confusing :-\ :-\ :-\
Des.
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Just the one photo this time. A trial fit of the unfinished wings, still need to add the ribs and paint. Paint is on order but will not be here until Monday :(
Des.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1LYfiwsJTUI/Us5o__-lziI/AAAAAAAALPg/a9I7K_HUL7g/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520170.jpg)
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Des,
This one is going to be ABSOLUTELY STUNNING! I am anxious to see your wings finished!
RAGIII
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Des,
I think this build will never be equalised. It's such a joy to look at. I find no words for my admiration.
Kind regards
Patrick
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The wings are now ready for painting, the ribs are simulated using Bob's Buckles "strippers". I used the 0.5mm wide strips which are self adhesive, they stick really well and painting over them does not harm them in any way. I used an automotive primer then rubbed it back with 0000 steel wool. The wings are just sitting on the mounting pins at the moment, as you can see they are self supporting. I am expecting a delivery of paint on Monday so I will have a weekend of making turnbuckles.
Des.
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-_w678u9wgu4/Us9_7DZ1jzI/AAAAAAAALQM/BhXH6S2O8xA/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520171.jpg)
(https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-XKjlJutv8OM/Us9_7OrFrDI/AAAAAAAALQQ/gevm5VsSDsg/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520172.jpg)
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Words fail me :o
Beautiful craftsmanship, Des.
A retinal delight.
VB
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OH MY, Des; as Bob says an absolute delight! :o I think you've outdone all your previous with this one, which is remarkable. Several of your Builds ago I thought you couldn't do any better.......now look at this little charmer!
Simply outstanding work.
Cheers,
Lance
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Very very impressive. I am looking forward to see it painted.
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Des, you've created a jewel! She looks absolutely stunning even now.
Amazing craftsmanship, my friend.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Des,
BEAUTIFUL work! Outstanding design and construction!!
RAGIII
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Lovely work Des, if only Bob's buckles did something similar in 1:72........ ;)
Ian
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Magnificent Des, o my I love that plane. This is the build of 2013-2014 and I can't wait you see starting the Battaille. Many many congratulations!
Kind regards
Patrick
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Hi Des
Envelope arrived yesterday. Definitely not Bleriot airmail !
Cheers
Andrew
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That was very fast airmail Andrew, four days is excellent from Australia to Austria, I hope what I sent will be of some use to you.
Des.
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Des it's absolutely stunning.
How have you formed the wings?
Alan
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What can I add Des? Absolute stunner.
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Amazing work Des...
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More amazing work and Im looking forward to the home stretch!!
Steve
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Hi Des
I'm still scratching my head trying to figure out which way to go with this model. I'm overloaded with work at present so more research is call for. Thanks again for your help.
Cheers
Andrew
That was very fast airmail Andrew, four days is excellent from Australia to Austria, I hope what I sent will be of some use to you.
Des.
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I now have unequivocal proof that the channel crossing Bleriot did have a flotation bag fitted to the rear of the fuselage in the place where I have an auxiliary fuel tank fitted, thanks Andrew for the excellent photos.
So, my Bleriot has now changed from the channel crossing Bleriot to another Bleriot XI variant, I don't really feel like messing around trying to remove the fuel tank and replacing it with a flotation bag, too many rigging wires in the way.
Des.
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I am now calling this model finished. The wings attached very easy and are held on with five minute epoxy, there is not a great deal of rigging on the wings, this was done using 0.12mm monofilament. I enjoyed this scratch build, there were no real dramas apart from finding the correct information, but, it still ended up being a Bleriot XI.
More photos over on the completed models board. http://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=2912.0
Des.
(https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0B-XGbZSuiQ/UtXh3jWS4ZI/AAAAAAAALZg/jn8pFbPPa9M/s800/bleriot%2520x%2520184.jpg)
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A hearty congratulations, Des, on another truly brilliant museum piece! She is absolutely stunning, mate. Now, I'll go take a peek at the rest of the pics, if you don't mind.
Cheers,
Bud
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you are just cranking out the scratchers these days eh des. that think is truly a gem. great stuff.
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Superlatives can be over-used but they’d all apply with this build. Even after seeing the other models Des has built I’m still amazed at the quality of this one.
Regards
Russell
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Another stunning piece of work Des. As Bud suggests this is of museum quality; one of the better museums.
So what next? I've just come across a Dick Dastardly and Muttly cartoon. There's some interesting vintage designs there!
Best wishes
Nigel
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Hello Des,
This is a magnificent piece of work and craftmanship. I'm constantly amazed of what your modeling abilities are. Many many congratulations and I'm looking forward to your next piece of art.
Kind regards
Patrick
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Magnificent Des! Going to Look at the rest of the pics!
RAGIII
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Fantastic piece of work Des - an amazing build if ever I saw one. I agree with all the other comments made so far.
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Excellent model of an important historic plane. Is a real jewel in your collection!
regards,
Ivo
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Des,
Absolutely magnificent, I can't say it any better........
Cheers,
Lance
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Wow! :D What more can be said?
Maybe words like Inspirational, beautiful, delicate, amazing, wish I could do work that nice...
Way to set the bar Des.
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Another great one for the collection. You should be proud of this new bird!!
Steve
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Thanks very much for all the wonderful comments, I really appreciate them.
Des.
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Stunning Des.
"not much rigging on the wings"
Sounds like a Boxkite should be next then - now you've got your eye in! :D
Alan
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Gorgeous work Des, I can only echo previous comments!!
Hopefully one of these days (fairly soon) I might get a leave pass to view this beauty and your others for real ::)
Andrew
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Alan - the boxkite has been on my mind for some time now, it would be an interesting scratch build in 1:32 scale.
Andrew - thank you for your comments and I would be only too pleased to see you down here.
Des.
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Des, whats next on the drawing board ? I can't wait,love to watch you scratch build .
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Dittos to all the above, great to see it finished !!!!