forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com
WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: Trackpad on November 13, 2012, 03:07:34 AM
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Hi, All,
Well, I've made just enough progress to merit a short posting on this forum. Here are a few shots of where I stand after two weeks of work. This will be the mother of all glacial builds, especially as, for example, I'm away for almost two weeks starting tomorrow!
Here are the components I've played with, partially finished and/or assembled: oil wood grain, sprue bracing wires, cleaned up rear of the seat, combination of various enamel and acrylic paints all over (no rhyme or reason!). The black thingies on the card are Lewis gun magazines: more to do to get a solid gunmetal appearance -
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0005a.jpg)
A better shot of the seat/floor assembly. Only scratchbuilding was the control column, and that was easy. Thanks to Jamo for a photo of the WW1 column: seems that the kit stick is post-war. Back of the seat looks all right to me: no war-winner, but adequate/satisfactory to my old eyes!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0006a.jpg)
Note to Chris and Lance: C'mon in, the water's fine! ;D
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The water certainly is fine, Gary! You've done a great job so far. I'm looking forward to watching this build come together.
Cheers,
Bud
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Looks great Gary! I hope mine cockpits come out half as good. ;) How did you do the wicker on the chair back? I've heard something about filing or carving away the backing. ??
Regards,
Bob
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Hi, Bud,
Thanks for the thumbs up. It's a great kit, and I want to do the best I can on it while not going overboard trying to do things beyond my limits.
Bob, thanks for your comment as well: both much appreciated! Now to the seat. If you go to the WNW website and look at the Hints and Tips page, you'll see a suggested way of doing the back of the seat. They use a craft knife to carve the plastic away from the outside rear of the seat,then finish up by sanding. I employed the same concept, but I used various sanding sticks, and no craft knife, to get rid of excess plastic: coarse stick, then medium, then fine. That way I was able to see how much plastic remained to be removed from the seatback by holding it up to a light: when you can see the wicker pattern, change to a medium, then to a fine as the pattern becomes more pronounced. Takes a bit more time than a craft knife, but for me it allowed more control and more insurance against cutting right through the back of the seat. Hope all this maundering helps! ;)
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Lovely work, TP - A pleasure to behold ;)
Looking forward to seeing more on this build in the future.
Cheers,
BVB
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Vielen danke, Herr von Buckles. Always a pleasure to hear from you! ;D
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Holy cow! You've come out of the blocks on fire Gary!! As you might expect, I was immediately drawn to your seat and it looks tremendous. I can't see any point trying to weave one from scratch when you got results like this. Luckily for me, I'm still bogged down on my LVG so I get to sit back and enjoy watching your Biff take shape.
Cheers,
Chris
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Im glad we all know this is about models because Chris being drawn to your seat could be misinterpreted. Very well done. Im watching this one.
Steve
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Gary,
I still havn't even opened the sprue bags, hope to get started by Weds or Thurs. Great start, your (aircraft ) seat is very nice (Thanks Pepperman, for making me so paranoid about commenting on Trackpad's seat!?!) and makes my decision on scratch vs. the sanding/shaving approach easy. Given the quality you've already accomplished I think I'll just lag the fight and pick off your ideas.
Cheers,
Lance
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I'm glad we all know this is about models because Chris being drawn to your seat could be misinterpreted.
Steve
:o :o :-[ :-[
Ya got me on that one Steve!!! ;D
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Gentlemen, All,
Thanks for your very kind comments. I'm not sure about "being on fire" as to this build: it's taken me over two weeks to get this far, and I'll be even slower with exercises in Ontario and Quebec over the next ten days or so. After all, we have six months, and Christmas is on the way, so this will be a relaxed build for me (more or less!).
I just ordered my WNW Sopwith Triplane (it got offered as of today, I think), so just the Snipe to go and I should have enough styrene to suit me for quite a while. Not that I haven't already, of course...! ;D
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Great progress so far Gary, you did a wonderful job with the seat and your wood work looks excellent, looking forward to seeing more of this build soon.
Des.
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Looking good TP:
I too like the work you did on the seat. The rest is noteworthy as well. I don't have this one in the stash, but am hoping for one under the "Tree". I may have to put it there myself!
Yes, this is the best time of the year for modelers here in the great upper midwest and the upper regions of the Northern Hemsiphere!
Looking forward to more as you progress through the build.
Now, I must get back to the Gotha!
Best
Mark
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Looking good Gary, being glacial is fine in my books ;)
Andrew
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Gary:
Thanks for your detailed description of the seat technique. l like the increased control (I'd probably end up with a knife blade through the seat back if I dd it as prescribed by WNW :P). I'll use your modified method when the time comes. :)
Keep up the good work!
Regards,
Bob
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Gary,
Absolutely beautiful work my old friend! Looking forward to seeing more.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Bob, Andrew, Des, Mark, Gregory and Lance,
Many thanks for your kind comments. Things have really slowed down this week, so no update in the offing: a bit of paint on the side frames and the Lewis gun magazines, plus some sanding and priming on the prop. I'm away for a few days next week, so I'll take a few components to sand and get ready for priming/painting. Maybe a small update next weekend.
Cheers, All,
Gary
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Gary,
Sorry, jumping in a bit late here - looking great!
Best of luck with the rest of the build.
Regards
Dave
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Excellent work all round, Gary. As usual I've filed your technique for the seat for future reference, though my Brisfit is scheduled well down the list (until I'm more comfortable with rigging).
More, please!
Dal.
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I plan on an update toward the end of the upcoming week. Some additional progress has been made with the cockpit assembly: partial assembly after getting the second frame rigged. It goes together pretty well, but I drilled out the frame attachment holes a bit just to be sure the small pins in the seat rack and the ammunition boxes fit easily. More later! 8)
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OK, I lied: here is a shot of where I stand now. Seatbelts (just partly painted here) and rear canvas pockets to add, plus the rudder control wires (E-Z Line, as you can see in the photo, yet to be affixed), then I think that I can close this up and move on to the next phase. Gone tomorrow, back Friday, but I do have the wing sections and other bits and bobs with me to sand a bit and clean up while away. :D
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0009a.jpg)
Ratz: just noticed a rigging wire on the left side has gone astray. I'll get him back into position this evening, once I finish packing. ;)
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Coming along brilliantly, Gary. This cockpit will look fantastic tucked into the fuselage.
Cheers,
Bud
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Thanks, Bud: much appreciated!
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Wow Gary, you are just zinging along. Lovely work so far, great wood effect, nice and clean, and added details are really well done. And as a hush settles over the Gallery the bar is raised several more inches..................... Safe journey.
Cheers,
Lance :)
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Lookin' good Gary! You're making great progress. Just think how much you'll get done whiling away those evening hours when you're away this week.
And as a hush settles over the Gallery the bar is raised several more inches.....................
Cheers,
Lance :)
Oh geez, just what I need. You guys continually raising the bar as you progress. How about limiting yourselves to just razing a bar. ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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I cannot tell a lie.......Gary did it! ::) ;)
Cheers,
Lance
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Hey, the Other Two Musketeers!
That's it for me until Friday. Good luck with your respective builds, guys. Won't be difficult to catch up to me in the next few weeks, so give 'er heck and have a great time building! Back soon! 8)
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Excellent looking cockpit.
Steve
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(From the Montreal Airport!)
Hi, Steve,
Thx for the thumbs up. I can monitor the Forum, but can't do too much in the way of styrene-gluing until Friday! ;D
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Im not in a position to raise or raze the bar but Im a professional at sitting at one......
Steve
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Here's looking at Gary's Biff, kid!
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Well, chaps, what can I say except "The drinks are on me!" Bottoms up, and thanks for the encouragement! ;D
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Well, chaps, what can I say except "The drinks are on me!" Bottoms up, and thanks for the encouragement! ;D
Save a seat for me!
Cheers,
Lance
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Looking good TP! I just came back from the bar as I have a long weekend ahead of me. Even my son wants to go to the hobby shop on Friday, first time for us in ages. I am looking forward to it. May even take some pics to commemorate the event. Have a joyous weekend and remember the model will always be there, enjoy your time with your family.
Best
Mark
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Hello, Mark,
Thanks very much for your support. I hope you had a great time at the hobby shop with your son!
So: I'm back. Let the mayhem and chaos continue! ;D ;D
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Just a mini-update to start the week. I got the mainplanes separated and sanded/cleaned up late last week, and I've just finished attaching the ailerons to the lower wing: taking a break from the cockpit. The upper ailerons will go on in a day or two, then I'll either revert to cockpit mode or give the wings a first coat of paint. Photos around the end of the week. How do you spell "glacial" again?? :o
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Gary,
Glacial is fine as long as there's progress. Looking forward to seeing the next progress photos my old friend.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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And the glacial build continues!
Three elements of an update this evening (I'm still in the"weekend," so update as promised!). First, here is the completed cockpit interior. It's a finicky, detailed structure but it looks the part once completed. Hardest part was fitting the rudder control wires from front to back along the sides: the bracing wires kept getting in the way! The rest went well, but I was continually touching up the PE parts where I'd scratched a bit of paint off here and there, or missed a spot altogether:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0028a.jpg)
Next, the fuselage is together as per the instructions. Des fitted the cockpit interior to one side of the fuselage, then attached the other side. I went with the recommended route because I feared damage to the interior during the filling and sanding process. Sanding the rear of the fuselage was a bit of a nuisance because of the four PE parts jutting out of the structure. But that's why God created thin sanding sticks!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0029a.jpg)
And finally, if you really need a photo of two wings ( :)) ), here they are, drilled for rigging, sanded, and with reinforced (with thin brass wire) ailerons fitted. I made sure that the wing structures were solidly glued to the respective centre sections: fair bit of weight for them to support:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0030a.jpg)
I hope to get the fuselage closed up this coming week, maybe get a bit of paint applied, and maybe get the u/c and lower wing fitted. Not yet dead certain of which line of paint to use: Xtracolor (my favourite), or possibly the Misterkit line. Any thoughts on this question would be most welcome. Next update: next weekend at the latest. Thanks for visiting! 8)
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Nice work. Looks like the next big step is coming.
Steve
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Nice update Gary, and now you are growing real small in my 12 O'Clock position, quite a lead on me as I'm still stalled out with other "things" that must be done. Very fine results so far, looking forward to your next chapter.
Cheers,
Lance ::)
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Beautiful looking office you have there Gary! I'm looking forward to seeing you button up the fuselage around it. Speaking of the fuselage, it's an odd looking ugly duckling to me but then again, no one could really say that the Biff is anything like an elegant looking design.
Cheers,
Chris
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Beautiful looking office you have there Gary! I'm looking forward to seeing you button up the fuselage around it. Speaking of the fuselage, it's an odd looking ugly duckling to me but then again, no one could really say that the Biff is anything like an elegant looking design.
Cheers,
Chris
Well...again out of character, I got the office into the fuselage late last night: started fiddling with it, and there it was, home free. I needed a bit of filler around the fuselage/floor join seam. I think it was because the curved surface of Part A23 above the Vickers gun fits between two raised "lines" inside the forward fuselage. But the tolerances are very fine, and my paint might have caused that part to "not fit" between the lines. I'd suggest that you sand down and thin out a bit of that curved portion: not much, but enough that it will fit properly. Maybe if you tape the fuselage halves together and then do a dry fit with A23, you'll see if you might have a small problem. Mind you, the gaps I got were small, easily filled with a bit of thinned white glue. With any luck I'll be able to splash on a bit or RFC Green by weeks' end.
BTW, I'm going with Xtracolor paint. I find that the Misterkit version of RFC Green is too green and too light for me. But then, no one can ever accuse me of being perfect! :D
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Gary,
Another outstanding update my old friend. Just as I would expect from your talented brench. Awesome details.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Hello, Gregory,
You are too kind, old friend, but I thank you for your comments. They are very much appreciated!
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Excellent pit Gary - looks very smart.
Andrew
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Excellent pit Gary - looks very smart.
Andrew
Many thanks, Andrew!
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Gary,
Trying to catch up with everybody's GB so apologise for late entry here.
Looks a really nice, tidy (busy!) office you have got together there. Is this WNW kit going together well so far?
Regards
Dave
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Hello Gary: I am catching up on all the builds as well. This is looking pretty nifty, the cockpit details look the part. I have this kit, but it seems rather daunting and am waiting a little longer to build it. I think it is a neat airplane and look forward to seeing you progress through this one.
I like the Tamiya acrylic line. I was a dyed in the wool Testors Model Master user, but the darn lids would glue themselves onto the jar after a few uses. I use Tamiya almost exclusively in concert with Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) for thinner. I use MEK for cement; I put it in old Testors cement bottles, I use it for brush cleaner, and it can be used with Tamiya putty as a thinner to get a slurry into a small crack rather than try to cram the putty itself in there with limited results. I used Xtracolor years ago, but it seemed to take forever to dry. What are your experiences with it?
Best
Mark
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Hey, Mark and Dave!
Dave, the kit goes together really well. the cockpit is a bit "busy," so I'd suggest that you first determine what extra bits and bobs you want to fit, then work out a plan to fit them, then start the build. I didn't, started, and then decided to fit the rudder control cables, by which time I had the rigged side panels in place. It was just so much fun trying to chivvy my lengths of EZ Line from back to front along the minimal space between the side panels and the fuel tank! The only other minor problem I had was that the assembly didn't fit exactly into the fuselage: I got very small gaps at the front of the structure. But they were easily filled with thin white glue.
Mark, I really like Xtracolor, even though it takes a day or so to dry. I work this requirement into my schedule: paint one day, do other things on the build the next, and continue painting the day following. I usually use a 2:1 ratio of thinner to paint, with the thinner being lacquer thinner. This lays down good coverage, virtually no puddles (unless I'm particularly stupid) and the paint is pretty much dry the next day. BTW, I've tried the Xtracolor thinner, and that does require care in spraying because it does not "gas off" as fast as lacquer thinner, and so you have a much better chance of "puddling." I've used it from a 2:1 ratio down to about 7:1 for shading, applied at about 16-18 psi through an Iwata HP-C airbrush. Here's a photo:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/Img0004c.jpg)
Everything you see on this Spitfire is painted on, less the stencilling: cam pattern, weathering, squadron codes, serial numbers, national markings...everything, all with Xtracolor. For me, it just really works well. I do have other paints in the armoury, though: Modelmaster,Tamiya, Gunze, White Ensign, Alclad 2, Testors and Misterkit. I use these for specific builds or particular details, and they work all right for me. But if I were to go with just one line, it would be Xtracolor. Unfortunately, I have to buy it from the UK. Fortunately, having attended a few UK Nationals, I have enough here to float your normal-sized RCN corvette! Hope this blathering helps a bit! ;)
PS: The Spit is a Canadian subject, and the Spitfire ale just sort of "turned up...!" ;D
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I'll have one of those...the Spit is nice too!
Steve
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I forgot to mention that I use a paint booth and a paint mask, primarily because of the lacquer thinner. And, as you can see, it vents directly outside: safety first! I can store my paint in the booth, thus allowing me to do mixing and thinning prior to airbrushing with the blower on: no excess fumes getting into the rest of the house -
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0019-3.jpg)
I decided to build mine because I found that the commercially available booths were just too small. I found that out for sure when I caught the Wingnut virus, not to mention contract builds for things like the Tamiya 1/48th Lancaster. The booth is is a mix of lumber, dryer hose, squirrel cage blower, filters, and paint. But it works! 8)
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I'll have one of those...the Spit is nice too!
Steve
Apparently, this used to be available only over Christmas. Recently it has become more or less a staple of the LCBO. C'mon by, Steve: there's a cold one here for you! ;D
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Nice set up. Everything close at hand....except the beer fridge....
Steve
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...squirrel cage blower....
Forgive my ignorance, but this is a bit of kit I'm not familiar with Gary..... 8)
Andrew
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Nice set up. Everything close at hand....except the beer fridge....
Steve
Actually it's just out of frame, stage left! ;D
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...squirrel cage blower....
Forgive my ignorance, but this is a bit of kit I'm not familiar with Gary..... 8)
Andrew
Hi, Andrew,
"Squirrel cage" is an unofficial term for a centrifugal fan, called as such because they can look like a hamster's exercise wheel. Here's a link about them:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centrifugal_fan
In my photo it's the big black thingie on top of the booth itself. It draws the fumes and paint overspray upwards within the booth, drawing the air through a replaceable filter (removing paint and dust, thus protecting the blower) and blowing it through the dryer hose and out into the North American atmosphere. They're pretty quiet: when on, my wife standing in the kitchen directly above the booth can barely hear it running.
I've got it wired so that it starts up whenever I turn on the main booth light, the white bar across the booth opening. The little black light is used when I just want to check paints and supplies, but not actually do some painting. Hope this helps! :)
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Nice set up. Everything close at hand....except the beer fridge....
Steve
Steve, because I have some spare time...
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0033.jpg)
One beer fridge, tactically sited, and very close at hand. One of the reasons that I'm glad to be retired: I could set up the modelling area my way, knowing that it would not be stripped down in three or four years! ;D
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Ha! there you go, I thought you missed a comma between squirrel cage and blower in the relevant post!! ;D ;D
(I certainly know what a centrifugal fan is).
The only thing about your fridge is that the door opens the wrong way ;)
Andrew
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The only thing about your fridge is that the door opens the wrong way ;)
Andrew
True, but I'll accept that minor penalty: the fridge fits too neatly between the HRV and the paint booth. Besides, I can't have the ale too conveniently placed. That might have a "marked deleterious effect" on my modelling. Perish the thought! ;D :D ;)
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...this becoming model builder porn...Im assuming you're beyond wanting to adopt.
Steve
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...this becoming model builder porn...Im assuming you're beyond wanting to adopt.
Steve
Steve,
Not quite sure what your point, or question, is here. Please clarify. TIA.
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PS: The Spit is a Canadian subject, and the Spitfire ale just sort of "turned up...!" ;D
Hello Gary:
No blathering; and it does help. I like the effect you have with the weathering, not overly done but weathred a bit, and the work with the lettering and insignia is truly outstanding. Now, to find some Spitfire here in the lower 48!
Thanks
Mark
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Glad to help, Mark. The model is the old Airfix kit. I'd recommend a newer, better one! ;D
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Sorry for the confusion- only meant a great set up and a fridge close by is a model builders dream - nothing more. I dont have that set up so was joking I would move in....Des deleting the post is understandable. Sorry if I offended.
Steve
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Sorry for the confusion- only meant a great set up and a fridge close by is a model builders dream - nothing more. I dont have that set up so was joking I would move in....Des deleting the post is understandable. Sorry if I offended.
Steve
Hey, Steve,
No worries, mate, and no apologies required. Thanks for the clarification: I just wasn't too sure of the comment's direction. No offence taken: you're still welcome to drop by for a Spitfire Ale, as are all other Forumites here! 8)
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. . . welcome to drop by for a Spitfire Ale, as are all other Forumites here! 8)
I'll pass on the beer but if you have any cold pizza in there, well, that's another story!
Cheers,
Chris
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. . . welcome to drop by for a Spitfire Ale, as are all other Forumites here! 8)
I'll pass on the beer but if you have any cold pizza in there, well, that's another story!
Cheers,
Chris
Sure thing, Chris: fresh from the Italian Front! ;)
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. . . welcome to drop by for a Spitfire Ale, as are all other Forumites here! 8)
I'll pass on the beer but if you have any cold pizza in there, well, that's another story!
Cheers,
Chris
My Gawd, free beer and (cold) Pizza; a Fighter Pilot's dream! Might make re-locating to ON. attractive even to me! Seriously, with company like this how can I go wrong?? Really look forward to running into you Guys somewhere "down the road".
Count me in!
Cheers,
Lance :)
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Hey, Lance: you're in? Take a look at our respective avatars: I just made Hero Member, how many months behind you and Chris? By that count, I'm the rook here! ;D
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Congratulation my old friend for reaching Hero Member statis.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Thanks, Gregory. Does this means we get "medals and tea," or does it mean that we have to work that much harder?? ;D ;D
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Unfortunately, in my case it just means that I have keyboard diarrhea.
Cheers,
Chris
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Thanks, Gregory. Does this means we get "medals and tea," or does it mean that we have to work that much harder?? ;D ;D
No Gary, it's cold pizza and Spitfire Ale as we agreed earlier; as for the working thing we both are semi-retired so that can't apply........
Cheers! ;)
Lance
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Thanks, Gregory. Does this means we get "medals and tea," or does it mean that we have to work that much harder?? ;D ;D
Gary,
LOL no metals and tea,but you do have to learn the secret hand shake though.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Well, with everything else that's been going on in this thread, I guess I'd better post a new update! In no particular order, here's what has happened over the past few days:
a. external firewall sprayed with Krylon Gloss Black, then sprayed with Alclad 2 Duralumin.
b. forward cowling sprayed with Xtracolor Medium Sea Grey, a dead ringer for Battleship Grey.
c. filled and sanded a shallow step on the fuselage underside between the "floor" of the cockpit assembly and the lower fuselage surface.
c. I've been tweaking Xtracolor RFC Green with some light tan and sand to give it a bit more of a brownish tinge. I'll probably spray this new mix on the underside of the fuselage tomorrow to see what it looks like. If it's in the ballpark, I'll apply it to the rest of the fuselage in a couple of days (once the underside dries out).
e. And I've made my first small goof in the build:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0029bcopy.jpg)
See the problem? If not, neither did I. With the lower fin extension in place, I figured I'd fit the upper fin: get 'em both done at the same time, don'tcha see? Three days later I belatedly realized that the horizontal stabilizer had to be fitted before the upper fin. See the little vertical tab blocking the slot for the horizontal stab?? That's the problem!!
The solution? Surgically remove the offending tab, eventually fit the horizontal stab, and replace the tab with short length of appropriately-sized styrene strip. Hey, presto! No one but you and I will ever know I goofed! ;D
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Hey Gary, how can I copy your build if all you publish is photos of the "goofs" vs. all the good things you've done?!?
I'd like to see the firewall for sure; just invested in an assortment of Alclad last week and intend to start using it. (naturally, having bought 9 different colours, Duralumin is NOT one of them!! Next trip to YED I guess. I'm also looking forward to seeing your results on the PC10 quandary, seems we'll be chasing this one through eternity!
Anyway, nice to see you are still making progress; I got another room painted today at the Daughter's Condo, nothing done on my Bif, and I'm starting to get a little frustrated with "outside" taskings!
Cheers,
Lance
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Hey Gary, how can I copy your build if all you publish is photos of the "goofs" vs. all the good things you've done?!?
I'd like to see the firewall for sure; just invested in an assortment of Alclad last week and intend to start using it. (naturally, having bought 9 different colours, Duralumin is NOT one of them!! Next trip to YED I guess. I'm also looking forward to seeing your results on the PC10 quandary, seems we'll be chasing this one through eternity!
Cheers,
Lance
Hi, Lance,
I don't mind posting my glitches, in the hope that doing so will help someone else not make them! Just call me the "Advance Guard," finding the bad guys before they attack the Main Body!
The firewall turned out all right. I'll be doing a bit of weathering on it, then I'll get a few photos up for you
I've pretty much got the PC10 question answered to my satisfaction: I added Xtracolor White, Sand, Tan and Dark Earth to a tinlet of RFC Green, and now it looks close to what I would expect PC10 to be. Problem is, durned if I can figure out how I did it! The RFC Green was quite thinned out: I must have resurrected it from an older tinlet. Then it was something like: 10 drops of White, 25 or so drops each of BS250 RAF Dark Earth, FS13531 Sand, and FS10219 Tan. Add about 50 (+-) drops of lacquer thinner, mix well and serve over ice. I sprayed a fair bit of the fuselage tonight to get an idea of the result: not bad, but I'll add more lacquer thinner next paint session as the mix is still a little thick. I'll try to post a photo or two over the weekend, but we start a three-day computer simulation exercise up here for the Militia tomorrow, so my modelling time over the weekend will be short. :(
PS: I was joking about the ice...really! ;D
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The saga of the PC10 mix sounds very familiar. I have used Modelmaster Enamels in the past and have written down my formula in two places; problem is the ratios are not the same in both notes!?!
My Grandfather used to tell me "we grow too soon old and too late smart"; I'm only half way there! ;)
Looking forward to your next photos, don't work too hard over the weekend.
Cheers,
Lance
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After seeing your excellent pilot's seat, I 'tried the water' yesterday, so to speak, and sanded off the backing on the caning on the pilot's seat and my results were nothing like yours! :o :o :( The water is pretty chilly for me so I packed it in partway through. Not an auspicious start to my Biff!
Hmmm . . . where did I put that Tortoise kit . . . ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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After seeing your excellent pilot's seat, I 'tried the water' yesterday, so to speak, and sanded off the backing on the caning on the pilot's seat and my results were nothing like yours! :o :o :( The water is pretty chilly for me so I packed it in partway through. Not an auspicious start to my Biff!
Cheers,
Chris
Hey, Chris!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0034-2.jpg)
Yeah, I can hear you now: "So, why is this turkey flashing up a photo of a corvette gun platform??" Well, it's not the gun platform itself that's important. It's the netting around it to keep spent cartridges from rolling all over the deck. With a little imagination, you can see the resemblance between the netting and...oh, I don't know... maybe the back of a wicker seat in a Biff. Now, this particular feature is PE from a gun platform set. But years ago I built another corvette, and to replicate the netting I used what is known as "bridal veil tulle" or something like that. You can get it at virtually any fabric store, and you only need a very small piece of it. Cut out the part of the back of the chair that didn't "make the cut," as it were (terrible pun, that!), and fit a sized piece of veil material over the rear of the opening. Blend it in with a smidge of white glue, let it dry, apply your favourite paint, et voila! the best-looking wicker seat in the entire known universe!
Hope this helps! ;)
Oh, by the way: I do not recommend cutting a piece from your good wife's bridal veil! ;D
PS: You can put the Tortoise away now! (Thanks, Lance!) :D
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After seeing your excellent pilot's seat, I 'tried the water' yesterday, so to speak, and sanded off the backing on the caning on the pilot's seat and my results were nothing like yours! :o :o :( The water is pretty chilly for me so I packed it in partway through. Not an auspicious start to my Biff!
Hmmm . . . where did I put that Tortoise kit . . . ;D
Cheers,
Chris
Chris,
Gary has obviously "cracked the code" on the wicker seat technique; as stated earlier I failed as well. Wonder if there's something special in that Spitfire Ale he was going on about!?
As for the tortoise kit, I have the same problem, but the %(^%*%&$ Condo is half done as of today.
Cheers,
Lance
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Gary,
Now you tell me about mesh from Gun Platform Sets and Bridal Veils! And here I thought it was your Brit Beer.................. :-\
Cheers,
Lance :o
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Gary,
What how did a Flower class Corvette sneak into the forum? With that being said I'd love to year more. I have the same kit partly converted Corvette in USN service cira 1942. One of these days I'd like to be able to finish her. By the way outstand bandstand and gunmount.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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As it stands now, the entire backside of my Biff's seat is missing its wicker detail. What a mess. :-[
Who knew that my 3" portable belt sander wasn't the appropriate tool for the job? ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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As it stands now, the entire backside of my Biff's seat is missing its wicker detail. What a mess. :-[
Who knew that my 3" portable belt sander wasn't the appropriate tool for the job? ;D
Cheers,
Chris
Chris
That's where I was at; rescued it with some left over PE Mesh. I like Gary's suggestion, the bridal veil trick (hopefully his better half's suggestion) sounds like a plausable fix. Last time I got into my Wife's sewing supplies I "disappeared" a dozen sewing needles to make CA Applicators, still in dog poo for that episode.
That seat's a finicky little beast, isn't she!? ::)
Cheers,
Lance
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As it stands now, the entire backside of my Biff's seat is missing its wicker detail. What a mess. :-[
Cheers,
Chris
Chris,
Feel like posting a photo of the seat in its current condition? Might give us an inside track at suggesting a remedy. And this is not "joking stuff," or anything leading to embarrassment. You've got a problem, and some of us might have a suitable answer. Bottom line: friends help friends. I feel a particular imperative to help because it was my idea that led you to try the sanding technique. :-[
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Chris (and Gary),
On a constructive note I really liked the look of the mesh rail around the gun turret on the Corvette. Had I had it on hand I would have used it. I ended up using, as I said, some mesh "grill" from my spares pile, it worked out OK but could be better. If Photobucket is behaving tonight I'll try to post a picture, still messing around with "AMS" additions to the cockpit module so I'm hoping to do a real photo update this weekend time permitting.
Latter...........
Cheers,
Lance
PS
Gary,
I hope I'm not messing up your Thread, once Chris gets his GB one underway I'll try to divert some of my "prattle" to his.
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Latter...........
Cheers,
Lance
PS
Gary,
I hope I'm not messing up your Thread, once Chris gets his GB one underway I'll try to divert some of my "prattle" to his.
No worries. Gregory is the Moderator, and he'll tell us soon enough if we're doing something wrong. As it is, all three of us (and maybe more in future) are sorting out our Biffs. Specifics on any thread are valid postings, IMHO. You have a solution for the Biff seat: PE mesh. OK, let's see the result: maybe that's the way to go for Chris, assuming that he doesn't want to build one from scratch. Rest assured that you're doing anything but "messing up my/our thread!" 8)
I'm adopting the horizontal unsupported position now, as 6:00 AM comes early tomorrow: computer simulation exercise for our Militia folk this weekend. Haven't forgotten the promise of Biff photos this weekend, though: they'll be here before Monday morning! ;)
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Gary & Chris,
Here's a couple of photos that might help with Chris's recovery of the dreaded wicker seat. First, the seat as it was when I managed to "pop" the wicker portion right out of the seat by over-sanding, and the 1:48 Scale PE mesh (from a seat but I don't recall which Set) that I grafted in as a replacement. I also added a center support piece, styrene.
(http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n583/lcarroll1/Models%20Two/IMG_1805.jpg)
The Pe Mesh was CA'ed into place, some sanding done to smooth it out and here's the result.
(http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n583/lcarroll1/Models%20Two/IMG_1819-1.jpg)
(http://i1141.photobucket.com/albums/n583/lcarroll1/Models%20Two/IMG_1810.jpg)
Had a heck of a time getting the photos on here, the Photobucket method that has worked for several years doesn't work anymore. It appears to be yet another case of "if it ain't broke don't fix it!" Just love improvements and progress.
I hope this helps Chris, might give you some ideas at least.
Cheers,
Lance
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Great fix on that seat Lance! I'm bookmarking this for when I foul mine up someday when I get around to the Biff. ;).
I had the same problems with Photobucket, but finally got the message that my old versions of Explorer and Google did not support the new Photobucket. I took the plunge and downloaded the new Google Chrome, and while that's taken a little getting used to, now my Photobucket works again and I can get my photos posted! I believe I have my priorities straight--- SWMBO is not so sure. ;)
Just a thought.
Chris, this should be a simple save for you after the LVG! :D. I have high confidence! Good luck. :)
Regards,
Bob
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Thanks for posting your fix Lance. You made a great save as your seat looks excellent! Unfortunately, I industriously sanded away all of the detail on the back of my seat, and as it appears that it's going to be visible, I have to do some thinking about how to rescue it, or just learn to live with it.
Chris, this should be a simple save for you after the LVG! :D. I have high confidence! Good luck. :)
Thanks for the vote of confidence Bob but I'm not so sure . . .
Cheers,
Chris
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Feel like posting a photo of the seat in its current condition? Might give us an inside track at suggesting a remedy. And this is not "joking stuff," or anything leading to embarrassment. You've got a problem, and some of us might have a suitable answer. Bottom line: friends help friends. I feel a particular imperative to help because it was my idea that led you to try the sanding technique. :-[
Not to worry Gary. Once I stop hijacking your thread here and get mine started, I'll post images of my seat. Pilot's seat that is! ;D I have no one to blame but myself as the methodology is sound, as evidenced by your outstanding result. I was just too ham-handed in my approach.
Cheers,
Chris
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Until Lance posted the in progress pics I was having trouble getting my head around this situation. I get it now and it looks like a great solution. More valuable info. Thanks Lance, like you said - this is a place to get help when youre stuck.
Steve
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Thanks for posting your fix Lance. You made a great save as your seat looks excellent! Unfortunately, I industriously sanded away all of the detail on the back of my seat, and as it appears that it's going to be visible, I have to do some thinking about how to rescue it, or just learn to live with it.
Cheers,
Chris
Chris,
I'm not sure but it sounds like the entire "weave pattern" is gone from the back of the seat, not just the middle mesh section I replaced? Could be a bit of a pain to replicate if that's the case. Can you confim?
Cheers,
Lance
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I'm not sure but it sounds like the entire "weave pattern" is gone from the back of the seat, not just the middle mesh section I replaced? Could be a bit of pain to replicate if that's the case. Can you confirm?
That's it in a nutshell Lance. When I screw up, I do it right. Working on something now and will let you and Gary know how it turns out.
Cheers,
Chris
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You guys are going to have a secret handshake by the end of this.
Steve
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You guys are going to have a secret handshake by the end of this.
Steve
Steve,
Our souls will be bared for sure. Misery loves sympathy and this is the greatest place to find help and the latter! I'm just shocked to find someone other then me in the hurt locker..........not for long I'm sure!
Cheers,
Lance ;)
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Im watching closely. I do feel a bit guilty about mootching this great info and I havent posted a single build. If the Pup works out I will post something even though its a walk in the park kit.
Steve
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Hi, Troops,
Just a short update for now. Here are the two photos I mentioned a few days ago.
The firewall came out all right: Alclad2 Duralumin. But I think that the attempt at weathering (oil spatters, etc.) is a bit too heavy. I'll probably paint it out and try a chalk-based wash to see if that helps a smidge:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0043a-1.jpg)
And my infamous attempt at PC10. For my life I can't think of the exact mix, but there was such a variance to the colour that I'm happy to go with what I've got: primarily brown, with a touch of green. I have one section yet to do, the forward fabric panel. Just didn't get to it this weekend due to the exercise we were on. But I'll get this bit finished up probably tomorrow:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0044a-1.jpg)
Thanks to all for visiting. Now I gotta get to work devising the "secret" WNW Biff-oriented handshake. Thx for the idea, Steve! ;D ;) ;D
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The PC10 looks good to my eyes, Gary. I'm no stranger to the fact that paint formulas tend to stay around only briefly; I've got several for each of wood base, PC10, and interior linen to name the top 3. I always write them down, finding where I did so is always the challenge.
You are forging well ahead, I got 0 time on mine today.
It's coming along very nicely.
Cheers,
Lance
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That's looking good, Gary. Instead of chalks, have you thought about using a wash of artists' acrylics (raw umber and burnt sienna, perhaps) in Future/Pledge, to give a glossy-oily look?
I liked the Spit, too, very nicely done. And I'm too jealous to mention the beer fridge....
Cheers.
Dal.
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Looking good so far Gary. I am really hesitant to touch mine. Don't know why. A few years back there was quite a heated discussion about the "exact" color of PC 10 on another forum. I found the whole thing amusing. Each of us perceives color differently. SWMBO always chides me for what I consider green or red. I am not color blind, I just see things differently. I always fall back on my time as a young Marine painting radios. The gunny got some odd color of Marine Corps Green, and away we went. We clearly stood out from the rest by the color of our radios. I also remember the movie, "Operation Petticoat" where the sailors didn't have enough Red Lead or White primer so they mixed them and painted the sub pink. I think you could apply that analogy to PC10 as well. Some young Private is told to mix up a batch and away he goes............the rest is history.
Looking good Gary, I hope to join the fray with mine soon.
Best
Mark
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Looking sweet, TP :)
Keep it coming!
Von Buckle
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Gary I wouldnt redo the firewall. It looks very good. I suspect a large portion may be hidden anyways (But it still looks very good) and you know what they say-"If you think it just needs a bit more - stop." Your PC10 looks great - what did you use - acryls, enamel, and what combos. I think as you get a collection of PC10 painted machines a slight variation looks cool. On the CDL front can I get opinions on what you guys use? I find the Tam XF55 and Humbrol (cant remember the #) a bit too brown. Im looking for something a bit more bleached. Of course I guess that means tossing some white in either of the two suggested colours. :P
Steve
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Gary,
I wouldn't change a thing as always outstanding work my old friend.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Just to echo the others here, I wouldn't change a thing Gary. It looks excellent to me.
Now I gotta get to work devising the "secret" WNW Biff-oriented handshake. ;D ;) ;D
Something akin to the Teddy Bear Picnic perhaps?
The PC10 looks good to my eyes, Gary . . . I always write them down, finding where I did so is always the challenge.
You guys are going to fall off your stools when you see my impression of PC10, whatever that is! I can see that I'm going to actually have to study up on this stuff or you guys will kick me out of the Biff Club. ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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You guys are going to fall off your stools when you see my impression of PC10, whatever that is! I can see that I'm going to actually have to study up on this stuff or you guys will kick me out of the Biff Club. ;D
Cheers,
Chris
Nah, we wouldn't do that. After all, you're the Treasurer and you hold the purse strings. BTW, what's the current balance in the Biff Club account?? ;)
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Well, now I feel like a right bloody chump!
I was checking through my supply of Xtracolor paints, to see what I had that could be used on my Biff. I especially wanted to see if I had a fresh tinlet of X22 RFC Green, just in case I had trouble with my "mix," discussed above. And what did I find? It seems that Xtracolor rejigged their "RFC Green" and came up with what they call "RFC PC10 Khaki!" And who do you think has it in his supply, and didn't know it? :-[
On the left, my old tin of RFC Green, containing my "mix," and on the right the new Xtracolor RFC PC10. Both carry the line designation "X22," so I assume that the old "RFC Green" has either been renumbered or discontinued:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0046-1.jpg)
And here are the two tinlet tops showing what the colours look like:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0047-4.jpg)
So, after going through all of the "hit and miss" mixing recently, I may have the answer that was sitting in my paint supply all along! I'll give the new tin a good mixing up, then try it on one or other of the Biff parts, probably tomorrow. If it looks good and behaves itself, I'll use it: repaint the Biff fuselage and continue as if I were normal. At least, more or less! Ah, don't we just love this hobby! ;) ;D
BTW, I also found a new tin of X21 RFC Doped Natural Fabric in the supply as well. I better get some sort of holdings list done up schnell! :)
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Maybe its the photo but I like the PC10 you have on the model. The others look very brown-which is another interpretation of PC10 I suppose.
Steve
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Maybe its the photo but I like the PC10 you have on the model. The others look very brown-which is another interpretation of PC10 I suppose.
Steve
Gary,
Unless the lids on the tinlets are different then I see them on my monitor I like the more "greenish" colour you have already painted the fuselage with. Personal preference/ interpretation on my part deems the more "brownish" colour a PC12. I've never used Xtracolour though and Photos can be very decieving. There are more arguements and opinions/versions of this question then we can possibly deal with though so I'd say if it looks right, do it!
Cheers,
Lance
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Greener PC10 believers unite!!!! ;)
Steve
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I shot the "new" paint onto the u/c and a bit of the upper wing. It's not as brown as the tin lid would have you believe, but it's a bit less green than the old original "RFC Green." I'll probably go with it, as it looks to be a good compromise, well within PC10 guidelines ( ::)) and it's a brand new tin of fresh paint! ;D
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Gary,
I'm looking forward to seeing the photos of the newest X22 painted items. I've used many a tin of the old X22 over the years but I've believed it to be a tad too greenish. From your description the new X22 sounds like a good reason to order additional Xtracolour paints.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Nah, we wouldn't do that. After all, you're the Treasurer and you hold the purse strings. BTW, what's the current balance in the Biff Club account?? ;)
I'm supposed to account for the money? :o Yikes! I'd better see if I can cancel that WnW order! ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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Nah, we wouldn't do that. After all, you're the Treasurer and you hold the purse strings. BTW, what's the current balance in the Biff Club account?? ;)
I'm supposed to account for the money? :o Yikes! I'd better see if I can cancel that WnW order! ;D
Cheers,
Chris
Hmmm...didn't answer the question...
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Gary,
I'm looking forward to seeing the photos of the newest X22 painted items. I've used many a tin of the old X22 over the years but I've believed it to be a tad too greenish. From your description the new X22 sounds like a good reason to order additional Xtracolour paints.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
Gregory,
If you know of a source exclusive of Hannant's in England, I'd love to hear of it. Hannant's requires the purchaser to buy a kit in addition to the paint, and the order must total 30GBP or more (or that was the case last time I visited their website). Do you know of another source?
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Gary,
Yes! Me!!!
I'm in Hannants London most weeks. Happy to send a pot or two over the pond to you. As long as there are no restrictions on exporting said paint, then I am more than chipper to help out!
Von sainted buckler ;)
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Gary,
Yes! Me!!!
I'm in Hannants London most weeks. Happy to send a pot or two over the pond to you. As long as there are no restrictions on exporting said paint, then I am more than chipper to help out!
Von sainted buckler ;)
Bobby, me Olde!
What a guy! Many thanks for the offer. I'm pretty well stocked right now, but I am sure that there will come a time when I'll need a tin or two. If you can assist, I'd be most appreciative!
BTW, I haven't forgotten my pending buckles order. It's just that something called "Christmas" keeps getting in the way! However, I hark back to a modified line from the film "Field of Dreams:" "If you build it, the Buckles will come!" ;D
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Gary,
The Xtracolour paints can be found at rollmodels.com . They stock the full range and have excellent service.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Quick question - what are the rules for shipping non aerosol paints overseas or across US/Canada borders? I cant get a straight answer from the PO. I get the go ahead but dont get caught type of approach.
Steve
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Steve,
If you're interested in ordering Xtracolour paints I would suggest giving Roll Models a call. They've been in business for years so I'd imagine they could tell you whether or not they could ship paints to Canada. Hope this helps you a bit my old friend.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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If you revisit Post 98 on this thread, you'll see that I fitted both the upper and lower vertical fins to the fuselage, then painted them. Subsequently I painted the horizontal stab as well, upper and lower colours, and today I fitted it to the fuselage.
Pay attention. Don't do it this way!
I found that the portion of the horizontal stab that fits into the rear slot in the fuselage doesn't fit all that well. I had to file out the opening and sand down the centre stab area to get it to fit. As well, the two "pins" on the stab that fit into the fuselage were three kinds of beggars to get into place, with resultant damage to my paint job as I had to force them down into their respective openings. Nothing serious, but I'll have to sand the affected areas lightly and repaint, plus fill the slight gap between the stab and fuselage surfaces.
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0053a.jpg)
I recommend that you fit the horizontal stab before you paint either the stab or fuselage: this won't damage the plastic, and you'll save time painting. Apply the CDL to the underside, mask that off, then do the PC10. Also, be wary of the diagram in Step 10 regarding the fitting of the elevators. The unwary might get them on "inside out." Refer to any of the colour drawings at the back of the instruction booklet to be sure of just how the elevators fit.
Hope this helps. Thx for visiting!
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Thanks for the tip, Gary, it's filed for future use. It looks like the recovery process is underway, mate. You must have been a tad miffed when the stab's didn't slot in.
Dal.
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Gary,
Thanks for the "Heads up" on this, I knew there had to be some good to being so far behind you! Just about finished with the painting/fixing task on the Daughter's place, getting an hour here & there daily on my Build but very little progress overall. I'm adding just a few more controls and plumbing to the cockpit module, once that' complete I'll post an update with photos.
Nice recovery, I'll be real careful when I get to that stage.
Cheers,
Lance
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Gary,
Great recovery my old friend. Looks as if you've everything squared away now.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Pay attention. Don't do it this way!
I'm 'a listening!
This is developing into an exceptionally good build log Gary. Especially since I'm one fellow who will prosper from your experience when the going got rough.
Hmmm . . . what to do when it comes time for PC10. My only other kick at the cat was decidedly more green than brown.
Cheers,
Chris
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Lance, Chris and I have been looking at which of the five kit variants (A-E) would equate to Captain McKeever's aircraft. We opted for the "A" variant for the following reasons:
a. McK’s a/c was serialled “A-7288”
b. On Page 6 of the WNW instruction, the kit “A” version is the only one that uses what appears to be an earlier version of the undercarriage. The rest use a possibly later, stronger u/c version.
c. Page 21 shows the colour schemes. The kit “A” version is serialled “B1112,” which is obviously later than McK’s A-7288. The remaining four a/c are all serialled further along in the sequencing: B1330, C814, C4619 and D8084. If the “A” version is the earliest of the five marking options offered, then McK’s Biff must have been built earlier than the kit “A” version.
d. By comparison, then, McK’s a/c must be of the same vintage as the kit “A” version, and therefore would be a kit “A” version build.
McK was posted to 11 Sqn May 1917. 11 Sqn converted to Biffs in June 1917. It is almost certain that the squadron received several, if not all, a/c bearing an early series of serial numbers, hence A-7288, A-7127, A-7231, as shown on pages 2 and 3 of the Windsock Datafile for the Biff. The old Profile on the Biff provides the following quote: "Two hundred more Bristols, numbered A7101 – A7300, had been ordered in November [1916].” These were the first F.2B variants, after the initial batch of fifty, A3305 – A3354 (F.2A variant) had been delivered. A further reference indicates that the RFC serial allocation for B901 - B1500 was the first major block assigned for the year 1917. We find the kit "A" version (B1330) in this block of serials. We believe that these references further substantiate the use of the “A” kit variant as the way to go for McK’s a/c.
Thanks to Chris and Lance for their input into our discussions. Happy to hear from any Forumite who has anything further to add! :)
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Another mini-update today:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0050-1.jpg)
Clockwise from top: fuselage now pretty much painted; wheels done save for dullcoting and a bit of weathering; elevators painted; undercarriage parts painted; rudder CDL'ed in preparation for decalling; and first coat of CDL applied to the wing undersurfaces (one errant aileron being done separately).
Rib taping, gunner topdecking and underwing "framing" to come shortly. In the meantime, I may cast a surreptitious glance or two at the engine assembly: nothing like "concurrent activity" to keep us active.
Lance, Chris and I are trying to pin down a few details of Andrew McKeever's a/c: propeller, exhaust pipes, number of Lewis guns and so forth. A-7288 was apparently the last Biff that he flew (November 1917), and was the one on which he and his observer/gunner scored four victories in one action on 30 November 1917. We'll get these posted as soon as we can.
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Gary, coming along nicely, now -
We all have those moments when things go wrong, but it's how you deal with them that's the real trick!
Regards
Dave
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Thanks, Dave. "The Season" certainly cuts into the available time, so I'm glad to have made a bit of progress over the last several days!
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Gary,
It's looking mighty fine! At this rate you'll be ready to enter another in the Group Build by New Years............ the tortoise and the snail, in the interim, continue to plod along. This is day #3 of "I'll finish up the cockpit today" for me, just keep finding more little "things" to add. Ah well, that's the fun of it!
Cheers,
Lance ::)
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You're making great progress Gary and it's all looking top drawer! I'm lagging way behind but am definitely enjoying seeing how you're approaching your build.
Cheers,
Chris
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Hello Gary:
Indeed you are making progress and that is the key. Progress. I get a kick out of the window into the "Bench" area too. I see you and others using similar products and procedures. The obligatory piece of styrofoam, tooth picks and the like. All part of the modeling experience.
Looking forward to the next update.
Best wishes for the Christmas season and New Years.
Mark
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Thanks, gentlemen, for your kind words and support. I'm in to something of a "Piece Work" phase right now as I wait for the wings to dry. Got the wheels dullcoted and weathered a bit, started the basics of the engine, and finally sorted out the "errant aileron!" All small stuff, but they keep the build lurching and bumping along. Next big thing is the wing undersurfaces, then some major assembly can go ahead. But, as noted elsewhere, It's "The Season," so "going ahead" doesn't mean at any great rate of knots! Plus which, today is December 21: if the Mayans did get it right, this might be my last posting on this thread. Stay tuned! ;)
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...and we've survived the Mayan Apocalypse, Christmas and New Year's. By the way, Happy New Year to all Forumites! ;D
Just a short note to say that I'll really be slowing down on this build for a few weeks. I put another project on the shelf to start this one, but it's a contract build and the due date starts to loom ahead. I expect to get it done by no later than the end of the month, notwithstanding a few exercises on the schedule. So I'll bid you all a "see you soon," and wish you all the very best as you progress with your respective builds. And I will drop by from time to time to see how you are all doing, perhaps to filtch a few hints and tips if the opportunity presents itself! Good luck to everyone! :)
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Gary,
Happy New Year to you and yours too my old friend. All the best on your contract build.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Gary,
Hopefully your temp. absence will give me a little time to nearly catch up. In the interim enjoy the Contract Build, don't work too hard on the events you've got coming, and on the Great Canadian F2b Build I will be here, probably still in "lag" profile, when you return.
Cheers,
Lance
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Happy New Year to you as Well TP:
Good luck to you on your exercises and the contract build. I can't do the contract builds. I tried it and found it to be a dreadful experience. More power to you and good luck with it.
Best
Mark
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Happy New Year to you as Well TP:
Good luck to you on your exercises and the contract build. I can't do the contract builds. I tried it and found it to be a dreadful experience. More power to you and good luck with it.
Best
Mark
Thanks, Mark. This one is not too bad, except that the instructions are overly detailed and yet not terribly clear. You really have to pay attention, as I have learned to my sorrow on more than one occasion during this build. Here's where it stands now:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/055.jpg)
Canadian Staghound, Holland, 1945, Bronco 1/35th kit.
Should be done by no later than end-month. At least, that's my goal!
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Hello Gary:
It is fun to see what else others build to keep things fresh. Looks like you are making good progress and you should be able to achieve your goal.
Best
Mark
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That Staghound is brilliant, Gary. You've obviously been at this AFV bussiness quite a while.
Cheers,
Bud
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That Staghound is brilliant, Gary. You've obviously been at this AFV bussiness quite a while.
Cheers,
Bud
More ways than one, Bud: forty years in the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps! ;D
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Nice work Gary! I'm particularly drawn to your wheels and rolled tarp. Your weathering effect there is very effective. Looking forward to seeing more.
Cheers,
Chris
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Gary, Gary, Gary..........................you just keep sneaking those wingless wonders in! Seriously, your skills really shine through on this one. Don't know a thing about AFV's other then "target!" however, at the few Shows I've attended, I am always in total awe of the spectacular realism you Guys achieve, nicely done.
Cheers,
Lance ;)
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Aw, shucks, guys, t'weren't nothin'! ::)
Thanks very much for your kind remarks, gentlemen. I usually build aircraft and armour, but occasionally a subject or kit pops up that just grabs my attention: an American Civil War cannon, an RCN corvette, a Triceratops (really!) and the Japanese submarine that shelled Vancouver Island in 1942 are examples of my "Wingless Wonders." All part of this most enjoyable hobby that I've had for quite a while now. Thanks again! :D
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Well, guys...I'm back. Got the Stag done a day or so ago, and the Biff is now back on the table. Here's the result on the Stag:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0013a.jpg) (http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0014a.jpg)
So I'm declaring victory on this one and slithering back to the Biff. That said, I leave a week Thursday for four days on exercise: not so perfect timing! Plus which, I have a persistent tiny seam to fill on the rear fuselage, so that'll cut into my time a bit more. But ya gotta luv dis hobby! Good luck to all other GB builders! ;D
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Nice, Gary! I love it. Congratulations.
Cheers,
Bud
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UMmmmm.....where are the wings?? ::) 8)
Jim
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An exceptionally well done Staghound Gary. The best I've seen to date what with that realistic, subdued weathering effect you've achieved.
That seam down the spine of the Bristol Fighter gave me fits too. Glad to hear that I'm not the only one.
Cheers,
Chris
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Excellent work on the Staghound. Have you considered a figure to show how big that machine really is?
Steve
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Gary,
Glad to see back at that outstanding Biff my old friend. Outstanding Staghound too,commission build?
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Gary,
Glad to see back at that outstanding Biff my old friend. Outstanding Staghound too,commission build?
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
Hi, Gregory,
Glad to be back! The Staghound is "sort of" a commission build. I met a member of the crew that served in this vehicle in Europe, 1945. I live near the Base where his Regiment is now located, so the thought struck me that it would be nice to build his Stag and present it, either to him, who might then present it to his Regiment, or to the Regiment directly in his name. I was Armoured Corps for almost all of my Army career, so there is a direct link, so to speak, from me to him and to the Regiment. We'll see how it plays out!
And now, back to the Biff! ;)
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Excellent work on the Staghound. Have you considered a figure to show how big that machine really is?
Steve
Hi, Steve,
I've got an excellent figure from Ultracast, but I'm hoarding it against either a Firefly or a Stuart build. Gotta start using these aftermarket thingies, I agree, but only for those builds that stay with me! ;)
And you're right: the Stag is a pretty big vehicle. I saw that when I measured it up against my old Centurion Mk. 5!
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Hello Gary:
Great work on the Stag, hopefully the guy or the regitment will appreciate the effort and display it accordingly.
To digress a bit, I built a Revell Forrestal using two kits to represent it as it appeared in 1967 when the fire broke out. One of the guys in our Sea Cadet Squadron was on the Forrestal when that happened. I tricked it out pretty good to make it look like it did during its WESPAC cruise: P.E., scrounged a/c folded wings, decals the whole nine yards. When I presented it to him, he almost demolished it by touching everything wondering how I did it. As he was lifting it up to check out the screws and the shaft he banged it on a chandelier. I did a field expedient repair using super glue and left. Never saw it or him again. As I say, I digress. Looking foward to the BIFF.
Stay warm.
Mark
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Mark,
I can only imagine the pain! I recall as a teenager I did a scratch built hand carved hull replica of my Dad's DDE, HMCS Skeena. He was the Coxwain of the ship and wanted to present it to the Captain who was about to retire. Similar situation; the Captain's Daughter was a Highschool friend; she later told me she was so impressed by the detail, as observed on a shelf in her Dad's garage! Doh!!!
We are definitely mis-understood and undervalued members of this society!
Cheers,
Lance :o
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Mark,
I can only imagine the pain! I recall as a teenager I did a scratch built hand carved hull replica of my Dad's DDE, HMCS Skeena. He was the Coxwain of the ship and wanted to present it to the Captain who was about to retire. Similar situation; the Captain's Daughter was a Highschool friend; she later told me she was so impressed by the detail, as observed on a shelf in her Dad's garage! Doh!!!
We are definitely mis-understood and undervalued members of this society!
Cheers,
Lance :o
My goodness! The Captain surely didn't appreciate the effort, he should have given it to his daughter who did. I concur with your assessment. We certainly are the mis-understood and undervalued. (Except by my wife)
Cheers
Mark
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Mark....Amen, Brother! :o
Cheers,
Lance
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Just a short verbal update for now, as not too much has happened with my build. That said, I've been able to repair the fuselage spine seam, repaint that area, and start to repaint the grey/PC10 nose area (initially got some panel lines mispainted). The serial is now on the left side of the vertical stabilizer, right side to follow shortly. I decalled the rudder but was not happy with my efforts, so they got stripped off and I'll paint the striping in the next few days. On a slightly different note, I've made a fair start on the engine, but I don't expect to work miracles on it as I'll be displaying the model with closed cowlings.
Edit: Well, maybe closed cowlings. We'll see!
Other than that, not a bunch happening. As and when they do, I'll get the info posted here schnell! 8)
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Just a short verbal update for now, as not too much has happened with my build. That said, I've been able to repair the fuselage spine seam, repaint that area, and start to repaint the grey/PC10 nose area (initially got some panel lines mispainted). The serial is now on the left side of the vertical stabilizer, right side to follow shortly. I decalled the rudder but was not happy with my efforts, so they got stripped off and I'll paint the striping in the next few days. On a slightly different note, I've made a fair start on the engine, but I don't expect to work miracles on it as I'll be displaying the model with closed cowlings.
Other than that, not a bunch happening. As and when they do, I'll get the info posted here schnell! 8)
Take your time Gary. I know you and Lance are busy with other things. I'll continue to plod along myself. I dispensed with decaling the rudder too as it's just so much easier to paint the stripes. We're three for three on that darned fuselage spine seam! Good to hear that you're going with closed cowlings as that'll be different from Lance and me. Mind you, I have no business leaving them off when I compare my engine to Lance's!
Cheers,
Chris
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Hello Gary:
Thanks for the update. I am contemplating doing that for my next build, as I have one German done, and am in the final throes of the Pfalz DXII. It is interesting to see the takes of the "Three Canadians" on this kit. I am looking forward to seeing your next batch of pics on this.
Best
Mark
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OK: I wimped. Seeing the other Biff engine work around here, I decided to suck it up and give it a shot. In an uncharacteristic burst of enthusiasm, I got most of the main engine parts together, then decided to tackle the wire harnesses. And so, I present to you my version of "A Bad Hair Day:"
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0046a_zps25993dd7.jpg)
With the wire cut and the holes drilled, I thought to fit the unannealed wires just to get an idea of the challenge and the motivation. Tomorrow we start on the details, but this was a bit of fun (especially as I was watching my Toronto hockey team defeat our arch rivals from Ottawa while I was doing the drilling!). That drill session cost me three broken bits (Drill Bits Unlimited), BTW. I've snapped off eight of the finer sizes so far: anyone got an idea of how to use these things without destroying them? I'm hand-holding them now after losing the first four or five in my Dremel and pin vise.
More later. Thanks for dropping by! 8)
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anyone got an idea of how to use these things without destroying them? I'm hand-holding them now after losing the first four or five in my Dremel and pin vise.
More later. Thanks for dropping by! 8)
Hello TP:
I use them in my garden variety pin vise, but; I only have about a quarter of an inch exposed. At that length, I am not bending the drill bit but still have plenty of room to work at drilling out the holes for the eyelets or spark plugs. Sometimes I even go down to 3/16. I have managed to use the same bit for my SE5.a, the Gotha, the Hannover and now on the DXII and it is still going strong. Give it a go.
Good luck
Mark
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For me the perfect hand tool for the carbide bits is a ball-end pin vise with a universal chuck... You can hold and turn with one hand and use your other hand to guide/support the bit wih your finger.
(http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh640/UncleTony1917/1489a1c9861d892a6d6456271393d2d2_zpsd99aefa8.jpg)
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Wow - the Rolls Royce of pin vices. How long is that one? If its as long as I think Im tracking it down.
Steve
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Just looking at your 'bad hair day' gives me a dose of Yogi Berra's 'deja vous all over again'. You and Lance have waaaay more nerve than me. Copper and unannealed?? I took the easy way out and used lead wire.
I'm gradually working my way through my first sets of 0.3mm and 0.35 mm carbides from Drill Bits Unlimited too. I only use them in my fingers but I still manage to break them. Evidently, carbide isn't particulary suited to drilling curved holes. :P
Cheers,
Chris
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anyone got an idea of how to use these things without destroying them? I'm hand-holding them now after losing the first four or five in my Dremel and pin vise.
More later. Thanks for dropping by! 8)
Hello TP:
I use them in my garden variety pin vise, but; I only have about a quarter of an inch exposed. At that length, I am not bending the drill bit but still have plenty of room to work at drilling out the holes for the eyelets or spark plugs. Sometimes I even go down to 3/16. I have managed to use the same bit for my SE5.a, the Gotha, the Hannover and now on the DXII and it is still going strong. Give it a go.
Good luck
Mark
Mark,
Can you elaborate on the "garden variety pin vice"? I go thru these little devils at an alarming rate and if I didn't buy during the sales (Drill Bits Unlimited) I'd go broke. I don't chuck them anymore as the increased moment causes even more breaks. How can you reduce the length exposed when they have an extended 1/8 inch shank, or do you have a different type/brand? ???
Cheers,
Lance
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Hi Lance:
(http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad261/ptbarnum101/Pfalz%20DXII/DSC00993.jpg)
This is what I use. You can see the length of the bit, and how much I have exposed. With just that little exposed, it doesn't put a lot of pressure on the bit.
Hope this helps.
L8R
Mark
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Wow - the Rolls Royce of pin vices. How long is that one? If its as long as I think Im tracking it down.
Steve
It's a super tool. Micromark has them @ ~ $25 USD. I am certain you can find it elsewhere cheaper... but time is money, a bird in the hand, etc...
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Hi, All,
Well, here we have an update with (would you believe it?) photos! Progress is being made now, but we have a ways to go yet.
First, the rib tapes. I used something called "Chartpak Graphic Tape." I'm not even sure if it's still around today, but I've carried this stuff around for decades. Turns out that the 1.5mm width fitted the rib tapes perfectly. The 1.0mm Jammydog tape was used on the aileron rib tapes. So: wing painted PC10, then rib tapes covered with the graphic tape, then a few passes over the tapes with a dark mix of black and mid-brown: "Dark Earth" in the Xtracolor line. Then the tape comes off and an over spray of the PC10 ties it all together. I also sprayed a bit of slightly lightened PC10 between the tapes to add a bit of depth. The upper wing got a bit too much, I think, so I'll tone it down with a slightly thicker over-spray of PC10.
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0012a_zps0cdfd839.jpg)
Here we have the two wings and the decalled fuselage, plus the "Bad hair day" engine. One set of wires has been glued into place: just three more sets to go! I also got the undercarriage together tonight, and added various bits of wing attachment hardware to the fuselage, not shown in the picture. The rudder is in phase two of a three-phased operation to paint it: just couldn't get the rudder decal to settle properly. My fault, by the way: Rowan's decals are first rate, as shown on the fuselage!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0014a_zps25f57a9c.jpg)
Thanks for visiting! 8)
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Wow - the Rolls Royce of pin vices. How long is that one? If its as long as I think Im tracking it down.
Steve
It's a super tool. Micromark has them @ ~ $25 USD. I am certain you can find it elsewhere cheaper... but time is money, a bird in the hand, etc...
Hey, Bo: mine's on the way from Micromark. Thanks for the lead! ;)
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Very nice update and progress Gary. Light years ahead of me, although I do at least have the engine behind me. Really like your method of weathering/highlighting the wings; short work with lovely results.
Cheers,
Lance
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Hey, Bo: mine's on the way from Micromark. Thanks for the lead! ;)
I predict it will become one of your favorite tools. :)
And -- great to see something with wings progressing on your bench! (not that there is anything wrong with your fine armor subjects...)
cheers
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It's definately coming along. I like the PC-10 you did and the shading effect. Nicely done. Looking forward to seeing the bad hair engine tamed a bit.
Best
Mark
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Beautiful work on the wings, Gary. She's gonna be a beauty.
Cheers,
Bud
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Coming together very nicely!!
Steve
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Gary,
Sorry I have not been following your thread for a while - I've missed some good work here. Your rib shading works looks very effective.
Regards
Dave
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Lance ,Bo, Mark, Bud, Steve and Dave,
Many thanks for your kind comments. Yes, the BHD engine is the next major phase, but it's not going to be too difficult. The annealed wire is easy to place, and I expect no trouble in getting the wires to lay properly. I just put a bit of Future on one of the wingtips to see if that would "even out" the top wing. Looks half-ways decent, so I'll give the airbrush a chance to lay down a coat or two: better than more paint, IMHO!
Dave, no worries about not following the thread for a while - neither did I! ;D But we're back in the saddle and moving forward now. 8)
Edit: Yes, the Future brought the top wing paint squarely into line with the finish on the lower wing. Tomorrow: the wing undersurfaces! ;)
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The rib shading on your wings look top drawer Gary. I sure wish they were mine!
Cheers,
Chris
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The rib shading on your wings look top drawer Gary. I sure wish they were mine!
Cheers,
Chris
Hey, Chris,
"Special deal for you, my UN [United Nations] friend...!" Thanks very much, but it's pretty basic actually: PC10 the wing, mask the rib tapes, light shot of "almost black but not quite" along the ribs, masking comes off and a light, thin spray of PC10 over the wing to tie it together. I've done the same with CDL on the lower surfaces: light, thin spray of CDL tying things together to be applied, probably tomorrow.
So just forward me your mailing addy and I'll process your bill for my consultation fee...! ;D
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Gary,
Very impressive shading on the wings my old friend. As always 100% Master level project. Looking forward to the next update.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Hi,
Those wings do look great. Do you use Future? When I did my Biff's wings, I also had a very nice contrast of colour with the ribs, but as soon as I coated it with future, everything darkened and the contrast was gone.
Cheers,
John
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Very fine Biff is going to emerge from this! Fine shading, right to my taste! ;)
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Hello, Kinnie and Przemol,
Kinnie, yes, I used Future on the upper wing. You will see in Reply 168 above that I got a bit too much of a "lightened highlight" between the ribtapes on the upper wing. I had two choices for a fix: apply a darker PC10 in the affected areas (which might have been too dark, thus upsetting the overall scheme); or try a bit of Future to give an overall gloss and tie the colours together a bit. I tried the second option, as I could still go to the first if the Future did not work. In the event, it did work well as the lighter areas darkened a bit under the Future, as you suggest. The lower wing was left alone, as the finish was pretty much what I wanted. Hope this answers your question! :)
Przemol, thank you for your very kind comment. I have seen your excellent work on the Internet over the past few years, and to compare my efforts favourably with your results is, to me, high praise indeed. The build is going well so far, although slowly, and I hope to have a worthwhile replica when completed. Thanks again! :D
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Hi, Troops,
So, here's where we stand as of late last night. Most of the progress was straightforward, but I had a witch of a time attaching the lower wing to the fuselage. Must be my ever-slowly-degrading digital/visual/mental skills! :D
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0016a_zpsc1b192e4.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0020a_zpsd98e9734.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0019a_zpsd3decb1b.jpg)
I'll get a bit more done over the next few days (probably my "bad hair day" engine!), but we're away as of next Sunday for two weeks spreading chaos and panic throughout the Caribbean as my wife and I celebrate our fortieth wedding anniversary. Then it will be "down to the wire" as I try to get this build done in the allotted Group Build time. Any suggestions and/or critiques gladly received. Thanks for looking!
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Man, after forty years I think a guy could be excused for a little digital / visual / mental degradation! ;)
Congrats, Gary. Fine looking update.
Lindsay
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Excellent work, great colours. I suppose a fortieth at the workbench isnt quite the same. Next weekend/week Im at a Niagara hockey tournament- wanna trade?
Steve
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Super clean looking build Gary. It's all downhill now that you have that lower wing installed. Well . . . downhill until it's time to mount the top wing. ;D Did you run those bracing wires under the fuselage yet? Child's play for a modeller of your abilities!
Looking forward to seeing further progress on this beauty.
Cheers,
Chris
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Steve and Lindsay,
Thanks for your very kind comments. Right now, just glad to get that #@**# wing attached! ;D
I think that I'll leave the engine for my return, and paint/stain the interplane struts instead before we leave on our trip. The oil "grain" streaking will take a while to dry, so what better time to do that than when I'm not here? The only addition/replacement will be the pitot tube tubing down the outer left (I think) strut, and that won't get fitted until my return.
Caribbean vice Niagara hockey tournament...hmmm-m-m... that's a tough call, Steve. Tell you what: I'll give it some really deep thought over the next little while and give you my answer in, say...three weeks or so? Yeah, I should have a decision by then...! Now, where'd I put that sunscreen... 8) ;D 8)
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Super clean looking build Gary. It's all downhill now that you have that lower wing installed. Well . . . downhill until it's time to mount the top wing. ;D Did you run those bracing wires under the fuselage yet? Child's play for a modeller of your abilities!
Looking forward to seeing further progress on this beauty.
Cheers,
Chris
Hi, Chris,
The only time I can expect this build to be "all downhill" is when I put it into the display case! ;)
"Bracing wires"? What's a "bracing wire"? ;D All that gets sorted out when I get to the rigging stage, but I will be doing the fuselage rigging before I do the wing set. Those you mention will be done first, I think. BTW, I put the rear cabane struts into place without glue, as we discussed earlier, to try and get the wing set up properly for the rigging. I'll see how that goes on the Day. Fingers crossed!
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Looking great, Gary. Brilliant work attaching the wing. Looks perfectly aligned.
Cheers,
Bud
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Looking like an airplane now. I am looking forward to seeing you progress through this build. I may join the fray with one before the 29 April deadline, but; first I have to get the LVG finished. The Carribean huh? Hmmmmmmmm. Yes lots of "Ban de Soleil".
Best
Mark
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Thanks, Bud and Mark!
"Brilliant?" Right now I just feel "relieved!" There are 16 attachment points to play with when wing joins fuselage. I wasn't convinced that I'd make it past Number 11! ;) But I do appreciate your comment, and thanks again!
Well, Mark, by my count you have 56 days from now to get a Biff and your LVG finished in order to make the deadline. Kinda tight, right? Yeah, I can hear you from here: "T'ain't nuthin for a Marine!!" >:( (Just funnin' y'all a bit!) BTW, good luck if you try it! ;D
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Gary,
Outstanding job getting the lower wing attached my old friend. I have the feeling this bird is going to be Awesome when completed.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Gary,
Enjoy your "fun in the sun" opportunity; with this recent progress you'll still be light years ahead of me on this Build when you return. Real life and work are preventing other then very brief and only occasional opportunities at the desk for me presently; now I'm sweating the possibility of moving an unfinished project from Group Build to the Under Construction category...............
Cheers,
Lance :(
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Well, Mark, by my count you have 56 days from now to get a Biff and your LVG finished in order to make the deadline. Kinda tight, right? Yeah, I can hear you from here: "T'ain't nuthin for a Marine!!" >:( (Just funnin' y'all a bit!) BTW, good luck if you try it! ;D
56 Days, I am reminded of the movie with David Niven and Charlton Heston, "55 Days at Peking", a fictional slice of life from the Boxer Rebellion of 1900. I Think I can do it Gary. Now that I have the wings of the LVG decaled, I can focus on the actual buidling process. With the Biff, I am not sure I want to tackle that one with the time restraint, but I may, I also have a Roden NIE 24 that I started last year, that I would like to clear up too. I will have to figure it out with the staff here at the house.
16 attachment points? HMMMMMMMMMMM! Maybe Des would be willing to extend the Group Build to 29 May?
Until that time
Mark
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Mark, again, good luck if you give it a try. I count the Biff's 16 points as either end of a strut or bracket. I was lucky to get the front bracket/strut assembly and the u/c leg points clicked into place all at once. I was holding the fuse/wing together in my right hand at the time (dry fit check), and was able to get my liquid glue bottle open with my left hand (being a leftie, no big deal!) and apply enough glue to these points to hold the assembly together. When dry I got the remaining set of struts into place, and there I was: done. Talk about a "relief in place!" ;)
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Greg, thanks again for your encouragement, not only to me but for virtually all members of the Forum. Morale is definitely up!
Lance, not to worry. Speaking for myself, this is a hobby, not a trial. If the time isn't there, then it just isn't there, so don't pillory yourself. Just do what you can comfortably: no one's going to think the less of you, of that I can assure you! Heck, you and I might be in the same boat: I'm about to lose at least two weeks of build time! 8)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/Noordam_zps9d5356d6.jpg)
Hope to have another update tomorrow, before we "launch!" ;D
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Hello, All,
Well, it's just about time to declare a "tactical pause" in this build. Tomorrow we finalize the packing and various admin topics, and then we're off on Sunday (after losing one hour to Daylight Savings Time!). Some progress has been made over the past few days, so here is where a few details stand now:
Struts are painted and oiled, now in the drying mode -
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0024b_zps6a0313f0.jpg)
Upper wing is decalled. No worries about what appear to be dulled areas. They're actually glossed: the decals have an extra coat of Future for protection -
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0025a_zpsf9a4d45d.jpg)
And the engine has had its hair combed and arranged a bit. Still a few bits and bobs to be fitted, but it now looks like an engine -
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0026a_zps4ddccf34.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0027a_zpsccdc0fd2.jpg)
And there we have it. Back home on the 22nd and a fresh start to be made. Might even make the designated deadline! Best to all, good luck with your respective builds, and we'll be back on line in a couple of weeks. Thanks for visiting! 8)
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Looking good Gary. Your wiring harness is superb! Enjoy your cruise.
Cheers,
Chris
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Looking good Gary. Your wiring harness is superb! Enjoy your cruise.
Cheers,
Chris
I agree, Gary. That harness is bada$$. (Censorship is a b!+(#.) Have rolicking time on your cruise and eat everything they serve you.
Cheers,
Bud
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Everything looks great. Have a safe voyage!
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Looks great Gary; should be a very short and smooth run to completion on your return. Beware that tropical sun and be careful of the water (I'd suggest just liquids infused with some form of alcohol to kill the bugs your body isn't used to!)
Cheers,
Lance ;)
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Thanks very much, Gentlemen All, for your very kind comments. We're much looking forward to this trip, and it might be the break needed to gear me up for the final "sprint to the finish," as it were! :D
"Liquids infused with some form of alcohol..." Hmmm...what novel idea. I must give that a try or two (or three) over the next several days. Thanks for the tip, Lance: greatly appreciated! 8) ;D
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Great looking engine. Enjoy the tour..a three hour tour..........the professor and Marie Anne......aall on....
Steve
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Everything looks good Gary, nice and tidy. Have a great trip. I would take Lances liquid elixir seriously. Always worked for me!
Best
Mark
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Hello, All,
Well, we survived our Caribbean sojourn nicely, but I'm not too sure if the Caribbean survived us! It was a great twelve days: super weather, some superb scenery, excellent company and the odd liquid infused with some form of alcohol!
And now to work:
(http://s241.photobucket.com/user/29selley/media/P9140057_zps530ad7cd.jpg.html?sort=3&o=335)
Not sure if I've got this right as the preview only shows a green-tinged representation of a photo. I'm trying to post a photo of a Biff taken some years ago as a trial to see if I can sort my way through the new Photobucket. I'll now post the preview and see what the result is. Wish me luck!
Edit: Well, that didn't work, so I'll have to do a bit more study of the Photobucket methodology. Or maybe just go rig the tail feathers of my Biff! ;D
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Aha: broke the code!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/P9140057_zps530ad7cd.jpg)
Here's the photo I tried to send from Photobucket a while ago. Looks as if I've got the technique sorted, at least for the time being. Whoops, now I have no excuse for not getting a few updates posted soon! ;D
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Gary,
Your Bristol fighter looks wonderful!
Regards
Dave
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Gary,
Your Bristol fighter looks wonderful!
Regards
Dave
Hi, Dave,
Wish it were my Biff, which unfortunately it isn't. A friend of mine sent this photo to me some time ago, and I keep it in my "reference" folder. Not even sure where the photo was taken, actually, but it would be nice to have (once I pay for the flight lessons, of course!). ;D
Now to get back to my WNW Biff: the clock is ticking, and April looms around the next corner! :o
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Gary,
Your Bristol fighter looks wonderful!
Regards
Dave
Hi, Dave,
Wish it were my Biff, which unfortunately it isn't. A friend of mine sent this photo to me some time ago, and I keep it in my "reference" folder. Not even sure where the photo was taken, actually, but it would be nice to have (once I pay for the flight lessons, of course!). ;D
Now to get back to my WNW Biff: the clock is ticking, and April looms around the next corner! :o
Had me fooled :o Welcome back to the cold reality of the great upper midwest!
Best
Mark
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Had me fooled :o Welcome back to the cold reality of the great upper midwest!
Best
Mark
Thanks, Mark. Only took me about three hours to collect a nice sunburn on a beach in the Bahamas, yet there was four feet of snow on my lawn when we got back Friday. Bring on August! ;D
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Had me fooled :o Welcome back to the cold reality of the great upper midwest!
Best
Mark
Thanks, Mark. Only took me about three hours to collect a nice sunburn on a beach in the Bahamas, yet there was four feet of snow on my lawn when we got back Friday. Bring on August! ;D
I know what you mean! It has been a miserable winter here. I have the Mendenhall glacier in my back yard, hopefully it won't take my house when and if it melts.
Best
Mark
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It's definitely been a record terrible Winter all over North America, no exceptions it would seem.
We had a real prairie blizzard here last Thursday, winds up to 90kmh with heavy snow. Took me most of the day to unplug the driveway which was drifted in with the consistency of concrete. Frustrating investment of time, back "out" from unsticking the Snow Blower or was it the ATV, got up the next morning to another foot of the crap! Sure cuts into a Guy's important Modelling time! :'( >:(
Cheers,
Lance
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Glad to hear that you had a good cruise Gary. I was hoping that you didn't get stuck on that ship that broke down.
Cheers,
Chris
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It's definitely been a record terrible Winter all over North America, no exceptions it would seem.
We had a real prairie blizzard here last Thursday, winds up to 90kmh with heavy snow. Took me most of the day to unplug the driveway which was drifted in with the consistency of concrete. Frustrating investment of time, back "out" from unsticking the Snow Blower or was it the ATV, got up the next morning to another foot of the crap! Sure cuts into a Guy's important Modelling time! :'( >:(
Cheers,
Lance
I don't know how you folks in the Great White North do it. My Liquor bill has probably doubled this year. Not Good.
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I say a doubled liquor bill is a good thing....well the doubled liquor part anyway. Barrie got its usual this year but I think T.O. has been spoiled over the last 2-3 yrs so the storms they did get this year seemed overly bad - sucky tropical Torontonians.....
Steve
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Glad to hear that you had a good cruise Gary. I was hoping that you didn't get stuck on that ship that broke down.
Cheers,
Chris
We actually docked beside that ship early in our cruise. What a monster: almost 5,000 passengers as opposed to our 2,000 people. I haven't yet heard what the final outcome was for it: apparently one of their generators went out (these ships usually carry two) and they were not about to sail with only one working. Good call: losing the second on the high seas is not what you want to do. No power = no lights, radio or hot food, rotting food possibly, and so on. Hope they made it all right.
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I say a doubled liquor bill is a good thing....well the doubled liquor part anyway. Barrie got its usual this year but I think T.O. has been spoiled over the last 2-3 yrs so the storms they did get this year seemed overly bad - sucky tropical Torontonians.....
Steve
Hello Steve: Lot's of doubled liquor! The problem can't do much modeling then. Almost done with LVG.
Gary: Looking forward to more. Sorely tempted to start the Biff. I was on the U.S.S. Inchon in '88. We were dead in the water for about 8 hours. That was enough for me, I was glad when they fired it up and we were underway. I coudn't imagine being on a ship with 5K people with no power for days. Egad!!
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Well, gentlemen, I am back on my thread again. However, this time I regret the necessity of advising you all that, unfortunately, I will not be able to complete my Bristol Fighter in the allocated time, or in the near future.
Those who know me know that, although retired from the Canadian Army, I still do work in the field of computer simulation training for our soldiers. Well, almost directly on return from our recent holiday, I received notification of two exercises: one for part of last week, and the second for all of this week. I have just returned home from the first day of this weeks' exercise to find notification of another one, this time for all of next week as well. Additionally, I have yet another one in early May, away from home. All to say that, with these requirements to be met and with spring fast arriving in the Great White North (with all of the attendant ground work to do) I am afraid that work on my venerable Biff must slow appreciably.
Now, I do expect to get the build done "in due course." To that end, I'll be asking Des to move my thread to the "Under Construction" Board, where I can post my slowed build reports as the model progresses. Regrettably, it just won't be progressing very quickly for a while.
Thank you all for your very kind words of support, and may I offer my best wishes for all success to those who will cross the finish line by end-April. Good Luck! :D ;) ;D
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Life sometimes gets in the way of our hobbies so all you can do is finish it whenever time permits. Besides, you shouldn't rush a masterpiece!
Cheers,
Chris
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...Im thinkin' your not retired your retreaded!!!!
Steve
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Thats the trouble with life, spoiling our hobbies, however it doesn't matter if it takes a week or twelve months to complete a build.
Cheers
Pete.
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Well, Gary, I know that whenever you do finish her, she'll be spectacular.
Cheers,
Bud
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Gary,
Can't think of another more Honorable reason to delay the Biff's completion. Looking forward to her return my old friend.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Gentlemen, All,
Thank you all so very much for your kind comments and support. I look forward to working on the model as often as I can, and to posting photos of the progress here. The very best to you all as you address your respective builds! 8)
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Gary,
Not to worry, be happy, as we know it will be finished and to a high standard when time allows. You, myself, and Chris started this as a Group Build within one, agreeing to all do McKeever's Bif, A-7288, and the off-line whining and shenanigans along with the serious comparisons and sharing of info have been truly inspirational and a lot of fun! I am very close to hitting the same wall but still hope to pull off a miracle by deadline. In the interim at least Chris completed his, so we've commemorated "Andy" very well.
Good luck with your Exercises as I run off to work as well early tomorrow, as I said in a PM earlier, we both need to start "acting our ages"!! ::)
Cheers,
Lance
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Well, Gary, I know that whenever you do finish her, she'll be spectacular.
Cheers,
Bud
Have to agree with Bud and the rest. When your duties are complete I am sure you will finish it to your usual standard.
RAGIII
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Hello Gary:
I concur with the rest here. Life gets in the way and that is what we have to do. The model will be there, right where you left it as you left it awaiting your return.
Good Luck
Best
Mark
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"I'll be back." Terminator I
"I'm ba-ack!" Independence Day
Hard to believe that it's been four and one-half MONTHS since I left this thread. Thanks to Des for keeping the faith! I've finally got the key project off the bench: Canadian Sherman VC Firefly, Northwest Europe, April 1945. Article and photos sent to the Editor today:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0080_zpsafd9c576.jpg)
Now, I still have one more Armour subject to do, but the pressure is pretty much off as it's not due until early 2014. So it won't be too much of a problem to do two builds in tandem. Accordingly, it's time to bring out the Biff again, and go neck and neck to the finish line with a Stuart V reconnaissance light tank (another Canadian subject, no surprise!). I'll post a few Biff photos shortly to show "where I'm at," and then it'll be, "let the chaos begin!"
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......................as we both appear again from the shadows, Gary! Let's get this Bif Build done before Chris gives up on us completely!! BTW, beautiful Sherman/Firefly (hope that's correct, lost my mind when I realized there were no wings above all those wheels/rollers!!)
Cheers,
Lance
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Absolutely gorgeous target, I mean Firefly, Gary! Can't wait to see the Biff update.
Cheers,
Bud
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Nice work Gary. Now on to that Bif!
Cheers,
Chris
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Good to get back, guys. Thanks for the welcome!
"When last we met..." the Biff looked something like this: fuselage back of the firewall pretty much done (but not completely rigged), lower wing attached, u/c attached and the rear cabanes in place (but not glued yet), and one forward cabane painted. Struts had been wood-grained and varnished, awaiting their top and bottom wrapping (and separated into metal tart holders to keep the two "types" apart!). Upper wing painting and decalling done, all as shown here:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0087a_zps006899bb.jpg)
The engine had been pretty much done, and shown here dry-fitted to the bearers. I have some detailing to do on and around the firewall, so the engine will be taken down for that:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0084_zps10d57162.jpg)
So here I am on the Line of Departure (or, if you're an old guy like me, "Start Line!") and ready to roll. I plan to do work on the two kits (Stuart V being the other one) on alternate days, so progress should be... progressive! I'll probably finish the tail rigging first, then the firewall area, then the upper wing mini-project. Saving the best for last, you see...! :D
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Welcome back, Gary -
Good detailing to the engine - look forward to seeing this one progress again.
Regards
Dave
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Welcome back, Gary -
Good detailing to the engine - look forward to seeing this one progress again.
Regards
Dave
Thanks, Dave. Glad to be back! 8)
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Looks smashing Gary. These WNW engines just cry out for a bit of wire, and the detail really pops.
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Hi, Mike,
Thanks! Yes, the WNW engines do take detailing well. Time-consuming, but not overly difficult. I'm very glad to be able to resume the build! 8)
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Confidence is high, Gary. You are more then a bit ahead of me however with your "half&half" approach with the Stuart V I should catch up before the finish line. Looking mighty "spiffy" I must say!
Cheers,
Lance
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Confidence is high, Gary. You are more then a bit ahead of me however with your "half&half" approach with the Stuart V I should catch up before the finish line. Looking mighty "spiffy" I must say!
Cheers,
Lance
Well, Lance, you've gained one full day right now. Today is a "Stuart" day, and I'm doing the preliminary priming on the full resin interior (Accurate Armour). No turret on the vehicle, so the interior is open for all to see:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/Stuart_zps725a7d65.jpg)
But tomorrow the Biff gets rolling, so...get rolling! ;D
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Glad to see you back, Gary, and with great looking progress to boot. All is right in the world once again!
Lindsay
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Thanks, Lindsay: very kind! Glad to be back. 8)
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Hi, All,
Just a short update for now. I had thought that I'd like to fit the engine compartment components before attaching the upper wing, but I'll go with the WNW recommendation and fit the wing first. Accordingly, I've been in "prep" mode for the past few days. This includes working on the setup of the Aeroclub jig, wrapping the ends of the eight interplane struts, reacquainting myself with the instruction book (now, just where did I leave off, anyway??), and sorting out the rigging plan, Aldis sight fitting, attachment plate painting, preliminary rigging and other additional details that should be fitted before the great upper wing transplant.
Good to be "back on the horse" again! 8)
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Like me over the last few days, Gary. So many little "things' to be done(important!) before the upper wing goes on. Seems like I've been "Pre-Rigging" in one form or another for a week! We're almost there, good Buddy!
Cheers,
Lance ???
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Geez, Lance, we're talking ourselves in to a real problem: once we get the upper wings in place...what'll we do for an encore?? ;D
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Geez, Lance, we're talking ourselves in to a real problem: once we get the upper wings in place...what'll we do for an encore?? ;D
I was thinking of taking up Stamp Collecting?!?! ;) ::)
Cheers,
Lance
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Geez, Lance, we're talking ourselves in to a real problem: once we get the upper wings in place...what'll we do for an encore?? ;D
You slow pokes will both get started on your Sopwith tripes. That's what you're going to do! ;D
And then, when you caught up to me, we'll think about our Snipes.
Cheers,
Chris
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Slowpokes? HAH! Lance got himself totally retired, and I got my Firefly done, including the article! Each of those is worth at least two kits apiece completed. You'd best start on your Snipe now, the way we're blitzing along!! ;D
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Hi, All,
Well, we're making progress, but slowly. I've been able to get most of the rigging done on the tail area, just having to do the cables to the trim mechanism. Then we can start on the upper wing. I'm trying the EZ Line route, and finding a few challenges and a few newish techniques for using this material. Here's a shot to give you an idea of where we stand:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0024_zps9d628ed7.jpg)
A few adjustments to make, and some Dullcote to apply, but we're moving along. Observations and suggestions always welcome. Thx for visiting! 8)
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Good stuff, Gary. I'm interested in hearing about the inner workings of the EZ Line.
Lindsay
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Hi Gary
This is looking very impressive indeed - it makes me want to throw all other projects aside and getting working on my own WnW Biff. But no ...... I must be strong!
Best wishes
Nigel
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Fine tail, TP! Looking forward to see the upper wing on.
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The tail end is looking the business, Gary. Are you using monofilament for the
bracing/control wires? I'm really enjoying seeing this beauty come together.
Thanks for the update...anxious to see the next!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Wow Gary, you've been busy in my absence! Looks good, and would like to hear more, per Lindsay's comment , on the "workings" of EZ Line. I experimented with it and shied away from it, I suspect more ignorance of the product then objective assessment on my part!
Cheers,
Lance
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Nice tail, Gary! (Please don't take that the wrong way)
Cheers,
Bud
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Welcome back, Gazza!
The Biff's looking very nice, mate. Having looked at that tail, I've just moved mine down a few places in the queue. Not that I'm scared of complicated rigging, mate, just terrified..... Nigel's obviously made of sterner stuff than I.
Cheers.
Dal.
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Hello, Everyone,
And thanks for your very encouraging comments. I'll post a few comments on EZ Line shortly: not too much actually, but I worked out an installment method that more or less works for me. More anon!
Now, I don't know how this happened, but I do know that it is definitely not the right and proper way to go about this, but...well... there I had the Biff on the jig with the forward cabanes glued. And it looked so d**n close to getting the upper wing into place (at least, the first phase looked close), so I...uhh...got the rear cabanes fitted into the upper wing centre section and then went the whole nine yards and glued the upper ends of the rear cabanes and then started muttering all sorts of prayers to the plastic Gods! There: wing fitted!! No measurements, no rigging, no alignment, no compass (!): nothing but a totally foreign "git 'er done" attitude! ::)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0026_zpsea9e2734.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0027_zps0e486b17.jpg)
So, as you can see from this uncharacteristic burst of enthusiasm, the wing is now in place, pretty much centered, but with a slight misalignment (upper photo). That said, I fully expect that the wings will align nicely when the interplane struts are fitted, as I can already easily nudge the upper into a worthwhile position. Incidentally, the rear cabanes are not glued at the fuselage end, so the slight leeway that this gives will also help. If I have to, I'll anchor the wings into alignment and apply the glue, but I don't expect any problems. Rigging? slow and easy, one line at a time, working from fore and aft center-line outwards.
So there you have the most recent update: completely tosses Des' methods and techniques right out the window! ;) This better work, or he and others will never tire of telling me, "I told you so!" And I'll deserve it!
Thanks for visiting!
I wonder if I can do this with crossed fingers...! :D
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Kinda like the scene in Animal House where they are building the Death Machine: Belushi painstakingly measures the windshield and then smashes it in with a sledgehammer... :D
Anyway, looks great Gary; slight misalignment only really evident after you pointed it out... I'm sure you will reef her into shape :)
Cheers
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Nicely done, Gary. Looks like the struts won't be much of a problem at all.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Gary, if the kit wants to be built, it will be built. Just as when they don't want to be built, they let you know. What makes you think the modeller has any choice in the matter? ;D
It's looking good, mate, and I know you'll get it all squared up.
Cheers.
Dal.
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Looks as though your mounting method will work FINE! Great progress!
RAGIII
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Gary,
Great progress, I'm starting to feel I'm in the "lag" position again! I really believe that the Assembly Jig is a "can't go wrong" step in the process if you take your time, although I short-cutted the process and got away with it as well. Looking mighty fine!
Cheers,
Lance ;)
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Nice! I sure hope that when I get around to building my Ninak, the top wing goes on so easily.
Cheers,
Bud
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Lovely progress, Gary.
Yes, EZ line has it's uses but it can be a real pain to handle as well!
Regards
Dave
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Thanks, everyone, for your very kind comments. As a bit of additional information, I dry-fitted two outer interplane struts last night, one on each side. This morning they were both still in place, and the misalignment is noticeably reduced. It looks right now as if the balance of the struts will complete the misalignment fix. More later. Fingers crossed! :)
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Looks great Gary,
I have history with top wing issues! I must learn how to build a jig..
Looking forward to seeing her rigged.
Guy
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Hi, Troops,
Just one key update item to pass on today: THE WING IS ON!!
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0089_zps8a09a8ad.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0087_zpscca01a40.jpg)
It's not neat, and it's not pretty, but it's on and it actually lines up with the leading edge of the lower wing rather well (Luck of the partially Irish, I guess!). I know that I'll have challenges with the rigging, the exhaust extensions and a few other topics, but it felt just great to get that upper wing in place! I'll be continuing with the fitting of various bits and bobs, then it's on to the engine compartment, exhausts (extended), rigging, Scarff Ring...and we're done! 8)
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Great to see the top wing in place Gary, that is one less worry on your plate. It doesn't really matter what technique you use to build these models as long as it works for you, and this apparently has. Now for the rigging, this is the part I always look forward to with my builds, hope you have as much fun as I did when I built mine.
Des.
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Congratulations, Gary! That's a HUGE step. She's looking amazing. Your shading is perfect.
Cheers,
Bud
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Going from my experience, once the wing actually gets mounted, and if I am Lucky lines up, it looks as though you have this one NAILED! Congrats!
RAGIII
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Virtual high five, buddy! Great job.
LT
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It's looking great. I enjoy the shading very much.
Cheers
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Huge step forward Gary, and the alignment looks excellent! We've chosen a totally different sequence for construction, I can't imagine wrestling with the upper wing with the flight control rigging in place.
I hope to get an update out on my Bif late tomorrow/early the next. I suspect that time-wise, were in the same place.
Cheers,
Lance
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I wouldn't have dared to install the wing while parts of the rigging are already in place. Well done!
Stefan
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Good going on the wing placement, Gary! That's a big step forward. Your Biff is
looking wonderful. I look forward to the next progress report. Well done, my friend!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Going great guns, TP!
More!! ;)
VB
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Good news from the front: the main components of the engine compartment are now assembled. I went with the open radiator shutters to allow a better view of the rad:
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0001_zps04cf2954.jpg)
(http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff205/29selley/DSC_0002_zps295fe95c.jpg)
Bracing wires, some rigging and a few more pipes and hoses are to be added, but the main assembly work in the compartment is done. I was amazed at my luck when the two engine bearers, one gun tube and one hose all fitted together into the radiator housing with no arguments at all. Must have a four-leaf clover around here somewhere! ;D
More later. Thanks for visiting! 8)
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Getting better and better with each update Gary, the engine is looking really smart now with all the details added.
Des.
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This is looking really good Gary and I'm so looking forward to the finished product - the Brisfit is my favourite period aircraft.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Des and Nigel,
Thanks, both. I did have a bit of a wrestling match getting the engine to fit onto the bearers. But when finesse fails, brute strength will always (and did) prevail! ;)
Apart from the rigging, it looks to be all downhill from here: engine compartment details (plus extended exhausts), rigging, Scarff mount, final detailing and into the display case. But I will be in England for almost three weeks in November (IPMS UK Nationals), so progress past next weekend will be...uhhh...difficult! ;D
Nigel, I hope to see you at Telford. If any other forumites are attending the Nationals at Telford, I'll be at the IPMS Canada table in the International Section (apart from the odd, short, shopping foray). I'll be happy to meet you there! 8)
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Looking mighty fine, Gary, I basically finished today and you're not at all far behind! Have fun with the rigging, I found it not difficult but it certainly took some time and planning of the "sequence". I really like your wiring harness and the wire ties, beautifully done! If you're taking a delay on the finish Telford is a very reasonable excuse, lucky Devil!!
Good luck, I'll be following closely.
Cheers,
Lance
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Hi Gary
Yes, looking forward to meeting you at Telford.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Brilliant update, Gary. That wiring harness is excellent.
Cheers,
Bud
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Nice work Gary. I am a little awed by the whole plug wires thing, very clean work. It seems that each WNW build gets just a bit better than the last; this is no exception.
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Hello, Mike, Bud, Nigel and Lance,
Thanks for your very kind, and much appreciated, comments. :)
Lance, Telford is the quintessential reason for slowing down on a build. If you ever get the chance to go, grab it with both hands. With any luck, I'll find resin extended exhausts for the Biff: no reason to wrestle with thick wire or Q-Tips! (Just kidding!)
Bud and Mike, the wiring harness is not really difficult. Essentially, it's just drilling holes and gluing in wires. It does take a bit of time, but the results do add a bit to the build. Thanks!
Nigel, with the Biff being one of your favourite aircraft, I can imagine that we will have much to discuss. I look forward to it! 8)
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Hello Gary:
This is coming along nicely. You work on the engine with the wiring harness is clean, neat and certainly will draw attention to that area when it is completed. I am getting back on the forums and am catching up. You, Lance and Chris have certainly provided inspiration to tackle this challenging kit. I am looking forward to seeing you progress through the build.
Best
Mark
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Gary,
If you don't find the resin exhausts in Telford I've got more then a few leftover Q-Tips I can send you, gratis! Looking forward to your completion of this when you return, enjoy the experience. ;)
Cheers,
Lance
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Outstanding update! Your engine came out beautifully!
RAGIII
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Thanks, RAG and Mark. The upper wing and the engine compartment were the tipping point on this project. once a few more details get fitted to the EC, it will be rigging, Scarff mount and final details, then into the display case and a beer for all! I'm glad that you like the engine: I hoped that the wiring harness would turn out all right, and it seems to have passed muster. Thanks for visiting!
Lance, I might just take you up on your offer. While I appreciate Chris' efforts with 12-gauge wire, Q-Tips sound a kinder and gentler option...! :D But I simply jest about the resin exhausts...unless, of course...they, uhh..actually are there. We'll see! ;D
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Gary,
As always absolutely beautiful work my old friend. Best of luck to you and I hope you can lay your hands on the desired exhaust pipes while at Telford. I wonder if it would be possible to scratch the exhaust from K&S brass tubing and rod stock without being too much of a pain.Looking forward to the next outstanding up date.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Gary,
As always absolutely beautiful work my old friend. Best of luck to you and I hope you can lay your hands on the desired exhaust pipes while at Telford. I wonder if it would be possible to scratch the exhaust from K&S brass tubing and rod stock without being too much of a pain.Looking forward to the next outstanding up date.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
Hi, Gregory,
Thanks for your very kind comments. Heaven knows what we'll see at Telford, as some of the vendors usually have brand new items to unveil there. I'll be sure to let our forumites know of any WW1 aviation developments! 8)
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Hello, Everyone,
A short and unphotographed update tonight. I've just been adding bracing wires, some additional piping and a few errant kit parts to the engine compartment. I also drilled out the openings in the fuselage for the horizontal trim actuator cabling (amazing how the obvious sometimes escapes me!). And the Biff is now under wraps pending my return from Telford.
Best of luck to all "Under Construction" builds and builders! This thread will recommence on or about the 23rd of November as I finish up the engine compartment and leap headfirst into the rigging! ;D
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Have fun at Telford, buddy! Wish I could join you.
Cheers,
Bud
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Hi Gary,
Your build is looking so nice and neat. The engine is marvellous. Congratulations!
Kind regards
Patrick
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Enjoy your stay at Telford Gary, hope you take plenty of photographs and I hope you come back with a case full of goodies, wish I could join you all.
Des.
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Hello, Again, Everyone,
Well, I did actually survive Telford, but I arrived home to find myself caught up in the "Holiday Season" preparations. These were made especially meaningful as our first son was able to get home for Christmas "on the day," for the first time in two years.
Telford was fantastic. Among other things, I was able to:
a. present Rowan and Sabine Broadbent with a "thank you" plaque from Chris, Lance and me (the "Canadian Mafia," as he calls us!). A grand reunion made better by drinks and conversation in the hotel lobby on the Sunday late afternoon. A phenomenal couple!
b. clamber all over a Centurion Mark 5, the tank I trained on in (ready for it?) 1968!
c. visit all sorts of WW1 vendors: Pheon, Aviattic, Gaspatch come readily to mind.
d. get some first rate photos of some of the models in competition. What absolute marvels some of these were!
e, spoke at length with Aviattic rep Richard Andrews. What a first rate gentleman! I'm afraid that I took up too much of his time, but he was kindness personified to this erstwhile WW1 modeller!
f. Got an unearned contract to write a book review on a volume dealing with RFC/RAF Training Aircraft in Canada and the US, 1917-18. Des might be interested in this as an add-on to WW1 Modelling.
g. And, finally, yes, I did come away with more than I expected. Dontcha just love this hobby? ;D
My Biff is still awaiting its rigging, but he understands the effect of a Telford and the Christmas Season. I'll get to him in due course!
So, my very best wishes to all forumites for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
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Gentlemen,
It has taken yours truly four years and ten months to get this build completed. I'm not sure if this is a "Guinness Book of World Records" entry: if not, it probably should be.
In that time I've been reprogrammed, over-tasked, re-prioritized, redirected, re-oriented, and essentially galloping off in all known directions (plus a few that I never suspected of existing). However, the thought was always with me that I might eventually get Andrew McKeever's Biff across the finish line in a halfway acceptable condition. Well, that day arrived yesterday: with the addition of the final three flying wires (EZ Line) I can safely say that the build is now finally and formally done. Of course, a few milliseconds after I post this message I'll probably find a small detail or two that I missed in my current state of euphoria. Fear not: I shall deal with that detail a lot sooner than doing it four years and ten months from now.
Best wishes to the Old Guard of the Forum and also to the newer members who probably have never come across my nickname until now. To you newer members I say a belated "Welcome. You are in good company!"
(http://i.imgur.com/RjVVrsj.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/6jVgKpr.jpg)
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Well worth the wait Gary, she's a beauty.
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Hello, Juan, and thanks very much for your visit and your very kind comment. It's good to be back on the Forum, although I still have a few builds to finish up before I get at another WNW kit. I'm still dithering as to whether it will be the Albatros DV (using Rowan's "Captured" decal sheet), or perhaps the Sopwith Pup. But it is nice to have a goodly collection of good kits, and therefore to have the luxury of choice.
Good to hear from you, my friend! 8)
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Gary,
Good to see it finished and have you back here again !!
Ed
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Gary,
Although I've already acknowledged your milestone event on our exclusive Canadian Mafia Net I'll add my congratulations on a fine model and your return to activity on the Forum here. As I recall Chris and I joined you on a "Mini-group Biff Build" almost 5 years ago, we just finished a little faster!
I vote for the "Captured" Albie BTW, I'd love to see that one for CapCon 2019!
Cheers,
Lance
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Great to see this one finished! Beautiful work Gary!
RAGIII
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Gary,
Good to see it finished and have you back here again !!
Ed
Hi, Ed,
Thanks for your welcome. Feels good to be back. I've got a few builds to finish up, as noted elsewhere (a British Javelin, my son's CC-130 Hercules that he flew in Afghanistan, and a contract build for a 25-pounder artillery piece, tractor and limber). But I'm leaning towards either the WNW Albatros DV or the Sopwith Pup when I get stuck back into the WW1 genre. Good to hear from you again! :)
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Gary,
Although I've already acknowledged your milestone event on our exclusive Canadian Mafia Net I'll add my congratulations on a fine model and your return to activity on the Forum here. As I recall Chris and I joined you on a "Mini-group Biff Build" almost 5 years ago, we just finished a little faster!
I vote for the "Captured" Albie BTW, I'd love to see that one for CapCon 2019!
Cheers,
Lance
Lance, thanks for the visit and your comments. Yes, you're right: I finally finished the Group Build as well! That GB slipped what passes for my mind: thx for the reminder!
Aha! So the first nudge towards CapCon 2019 has arrived! The Albi's pretty much got the inside track because I've been promising that build to Rowan for donkey's years. As well, I"ll be seeing the Gaspatch table at Telford in November specifically to pick up the rigging fittings for it. Then again, with three or so to finish, what's the problem with starting another?? ;D Don't think so, though: been there over the past few years and I'd rather get things done than have a bunch of unfinished builds cluttering up the work bench! :o
Thanks again for the visit! 8)
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Great to see this one finished! Beautiful work Gary!
RAGIII
Thanks, RAGIII: good to hear from you again after too many years! Yes, it's good to "get out from under," as it were. I sometimes think that I should go back to full-time employment: this retirement bit allows too much time for others to have me fill! ;)
Good to hear from you, mate. Thanks again for visiting! 8)
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Great to see you back Gary and also great to see your completed Biff, you have done a superb job with this kit ending up with a superb model.
Des.
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Well done, Gary.
If it's worth doing it's worth taking 4 years complete ;)
Thanks for sharing.
Cheers,
VB
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Greetings Gary. :)
Your Biff looks great!
Will we see more pix in the completed models section?
Hope so.
cheers
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Great to see you back Gary and also great to see your completed Biff, you have done a superb job with this kit ending up with a superb model.
Des.
Hi, Des,
Glad to be back on the Forum, and thanks for your very kind comments. I'm already being benignly pressured to do an Albatros DV in Rowan's
"Captured!" markings as my next WW1 build, and I'll probably do it once a few more "almost done" builds are finished. Ah, the pleasure of being back with friends! ;D. All the Best, Des!
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Well done, Gary.
If it's worth doing it's worth taking 4 years complete ;)
Thanks for sharing.
Cheers,
VB
Hello, Robert von Buckles! Good to hear from you, and thanks very much for visiting. Yes, I guess it was worth the time and so was worth doing. I must keep this philosophy in mind when next I have a half-decade build. Thanks for the lead! ::)
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Greetings Gary. :)
Your Biff looks great!
Will we see more pix in the completed models section?
Hope so.
cheers
Hi, Boggie,
Yes, I'll take a few better pictures over the weekend and post them as you recommend. Thanks for visiting, and all best wishes for success with your future builds! 8)
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Hi Gary:
It's good to see you back on the forum, I too have been absent for far too long. The BIFF Turned out great, the engine detail is nicely exposed and the wood grain on the prop is most realistic. This is a tough build and you did it proud. Bring this to CAPCON 2017 and we can figure out what to bring in 2019. Outstanding work on the BIFF, now I have to do mine.
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Bravo, Gary as a classy Biff takes to the air, well metaphorically.
It's a pity I can't get to Telford this year as it would have been great to meet up again and do all in my power to try and persuade you to go for the Pup. Research scientists are rumoured to be finding evidence that platic kit Albatros numbers have reached critical mass and over-population threatens...
Best wishes
Nigel
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Hi Gary:
It's good to see you back on the forum, I too have been absent for far too long. The BIFF Turned out great, the engine detail is nicely exposed and the wood grain on the prop is most realistic. This is a tough build and you did it proud. Bring this to CAPCON 2017 and we can figure out what to bring in 2019. Outstanding work on the BIFF, now I have to do mine.
Hey, Mark, thanks for visiting. I'm looking forward to our CapCon reunion and the conversation flow that it generates. Lance is already lobbying for a TP Albatros DV. I might just do it as I've promised Rowan that I'd use his "Captured!" markings on the DV and I've now got so much aftermarket bits and bobs in the box (with more coming from Telford) that I need a forklift to get it down from the shelf! But that's two years away. Hmmm...less that 50% of the time I needed to finish the Biff! ;D
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Bravo, Gary as a classy Biff takes to the air, well metaphorically.
It's a pity I can't get to Telford this year as it would have been great to meet up again and do all in my power to try and persuade you to go for the Pup. Research scientists are rumoured to be finding evidence that platic kit Albatros numbers have reached critical mass and over-population threatens...
Best wishes
Nigel
Thanks for visiting, Nigel, and for your kind compliment. Good to hear from you. Well, if we can't meet up at the UK Nats this year, hopefully there will be future opportunities. Almost too many plastic Albi kits, you say? Must be the fault of WNW, offering them three at one go now! ;)
And don't worry about the Pup. I have eight WNW kits in the cache and the Pup is in the upper half as regards priority. All the best to you and yours, and further good luck with your Caudron! 8)