It's time I started a Build Log on this project which I've done some very basic work on in the past month or so. I received this Kit along with a Late version one last Christmas and, although in no great rush to build it, was so motivated by Gisbod's Build in the Memorial Group Build that I decided it was time!
After some time studying the excellent recent Data File #157 "At War" version (Thank you Ray, as always just an outstanding publication) and the considerable photo collection on the Wingnut Wings site the blue and yellow striped scheme of the subject of the Build was a very appealing choice. This bird was originally painted in the Unit's signature white and black horizontal stripes with Lozenge Fabric covered flying surfaces as are very evident in the reference photos as a subtle bleed through effect of both on the scheme. I really wanted to attempt the complicated scheme thus the choice was easy!
The usual mandatory Box Art shot, also a very tempting livery!
........and here's the chosen finish.
I'll be using both 1:32 and 1;48 Scale GasPatch Turn Buckles along with Bob's Buckles, Their Parabellum 14/17 Gun for the rear seat, HGW Fabric Seat Belts, and assorted Taurus upgrade fittings for the Daimler-Mercedes D.IIIau Engine. Cockpit additions will include Aeroclub Instrument Bezels and some recently acquired Bronco Models "Wingnuts" which look very much like the Fuel Selector Levers in many of the German Aircraft.
I've got a start on the engine and cockpit components at this point.
The Build commenced with making the spark plugs for the engine; I used Albion Alloys Slide Fit brass tubing of 0.5 and 0.7 mm for the outer ends and base of the plugs respectively.
The very basic portion of the engine build is completed and awaiting the ancillaries, electrical, and "plumbing" along with some oil and grease.
..... and here's the started cockpit floor and side frames along with the Gas Tank and pilot's seat. (Brave men those!!!)
This will be a very slow build as I am still finding it difficult to train the new Pup and have any amount of leftover time! Apparently I'm not a great multi-tasker in my advanced age!
Cheers,
Lance