forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com

WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: DaddyO on August 27, 2024, 01:36:57 AM

Title: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 27, 2024, 01:36:57 AM
With the Pfalz nearing completion it's time to make a start on the next one (or two) 😁
Although I think the German aircraft are generally more 'interesting' and colourful I obviously want to keep my collection balanced so time for a couple of Allied aircraft. One will be a late war British single seater scout described by some pilots as 'an 8 ton lorry', but although a start has been made I haven't taken any pictures yet so here's the second one on the bench instead -

Ladies and gentlemen I present 'The Armstrong Whitworth FK8' also known as 'The Big Ack' (Cos the FK3 was called 'Little Ack') 😉

Not as well known as the Bristol Fighter it was well loved by its crews being a bit of a 'Ronseal' aircraft (You know. . . from the TV advert  . . .'does what it says on the tin') ::)

Personally I think it has a certain brutal charm all of its own and rather like it. Although getting on in years the pieces in the Pegasus kit compare well with the Datafile drawings, but a couple of moulding flaws on the wing leading edge means a bit of sanding was needed. I'll re-scribe the ribs on later and this also gives an opportunity to thin the trailing edges (and we do like a sharp trailing edge don't we boys and girls)

Rather than make the variant in the kit I've decided to go for the later 'Bistol Fighter' style undercarriage to make it a bit different. . . .
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: IanB on August 27, 2024, 02:37:58 AM
I'll grab a seat at the bar for this! I built it a few years back and  commissioned some PE to bring it up to standard. That included name plates, control actuators, and the bracket for the Rotherham pump. If you bought this from Colin at Freightdog Models after that date, you should have that set included. Unfortunately I didn't keep any more.

Ian
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 27, 2024, 02:56:23 AM
I'll grab a seat at the bar for this! I built it a few years back and  commissioned some PE to bring it up to standard. That included name plates, control actuators, and the bracket for the Rotherham pump. If you bought this from Colin at Freightdog Models after that date, you should have that set included. Unfortunately I didn't keep any more.

Ian

Hi Ian
Great to have you on board - what you see is what I got  ;)
(Picked this one up on Fleabay along with a Halberstadt CLII and a Be2e which were ones I'd been after for a while)

I've got a generic etch set, some sprue and a bunch of enthusiasm which hopefully will get me through

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: macsporran on August 27, 2024, 03:28:54 AM
Great choice of a dreadfully under-rated aeroplane Paul.

The combat where McLeod and Hammond in their FK8 won VC against 8 Fokker Triplanes should have immortalised this splendid machine for all time. But today nobody has heard of it.

Following with great interest.
Sandy
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 27, 2024, 04:05:33 AM
Great choice of a dreadfully under-rated aeroplane Paul.

The combat where McLeod and Hammond in their FK8 won VC against 8 Fokker Triplanes should have immortalised this splendid machine for all time. But today nobody has heard of it.

Following with great interest.
Sandy

Cheers Sandy
I hadn't even realised about their combat until I started doing a bit of research for this build.

For those who weren't aware of the engagement. Here's a copy of the London Gazette's announcement of their award -

1st May, 1918

     His Majesty the KING has been graciously pleased to award the Victoria Cross to the undermentioned Officers of the Royal Air Force, for services displaying outstanding bravery:—                                                                         

___________

     2nd Lt Alan Arnett McLeod, Royal Air Force

Whilst flying with his observer (Lt. A. W. Hammond, M.C.), attacking hostile formations by bombs and machine-gun fire, he was assailed at a height of 5,000 feet by eight enemy triplanes, which dived at him from all directions, firing from the r front guns. By skilful [sic] maneuvering he enabled his observer to fire bursts at each machine in turn, shooting three of them down out of control. By this time Lt McLeod had received five wounds, and whilst continuing the engagement a bullet penetrated his petrol tank and set the machine on fire.

He then climbed out on to the left bottom plane, controlling his machine from the side of the fuselage, and by side-slipping steeply kept the flames to one side, thus enabling the observer to continue firing until the ground was reached.

The observer had been wounded six times when the machine crashed in “No Man’s Land,” and 2nd Lt McLeod, notwithstanding his own wounds, dragged him away from the burning wreckage at great personal risk from heavy machine-gun fire from the enemy’s lines. This very gallant pilot was again wounded by a bomb whilst engaged in this act of rescue, but he persevered until he had placed Lt. Hammond in comparative safety, before falling himself from exhaustion and loss of blood.

—The London Gazette, Number 30663, Wednesday, 1 May 1918, at Pages 5287 and 5288


Admitted to Winnipeg hospital in October 1918 after returning home to Canada 2nd Lieutenant Alan Arnett McCleod, V.C., Royal Air Force, died 6 November 1918. He was just 18 years old.

After recovering from his wounds his observer Arther William Hammond MC & VC emigrated to Canada post-war and became a Canadian citizen. He later served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during WWII eventually dying in 1959
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on August 27, 2024, 04:54:59 AM
Nice choice Paul. Looking forward to seeing what you do with this one....
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 27, 2024, 05:03:17 AM
Nice choice Paul. Looking forward to seeing what you do with this one....

Cheers Matey  ;D
(I know Dave has built a nice one, but the wheel fell off so that doesn't count)   ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on August 31, 2024, 01:28:57 AM
Looking forward to tracking on this one. I had heard that story, but had forgotten about it. As you said, one would think this fight would have cemented the aircraft's fame, but like so much, it has been laid to the side in the intervening years.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: PJ Fisher on August 31, 2024, 04:52:28 AM
looking forward to this build!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 31, 2024, 05:39:02 AM
Looking forward to tracking on this one. I had heard that story, but had forgotten about it. As you said, one would think this fight would have cemented the aircraft's fame, but like so much, it has been laid to the side in the intervening years.

Warren

Thanks Warren. Start made around work and other stuff this week  :)

looking forward to this build!


Cheers PJ  ;D



First and messiest job was sanding down flying surfaces and cutting off all the moving parts adding pins ready for new rib tapes to be scribed on

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 31, 2024, 05:41:47 AM
Next was to add some love to the fuselage. by sanding down the inside thin enough to get a suitable cockpit into, tidying up edges, filling in 'stitching' and adding a few wrinkles and foot steps. Happy with how that's shaped up so far most of the external details will be added when the two halves are safely together

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 31, 2024, 05:46:09 AM
Since I was a bit bored with sanding I decided to have a look at a couple of details that won't be needed till later - The header tank and wheels; neither of these inspired me much in their original form so I made a new tank from sanded sprue and added a few details (sounds easy, but took me most of an evening to sort that out satisfactorily) The wheels looked a bit 'meh' and a tad too big to my eye so I had a rummage and sorted out a pair that were nearly right and with a bit of work proved to be just the ticket  :D

That's all for the moment, hopefully a bit more progress tomorrow
Paul

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: FAf on August 31, 2024, 03:54:41 PM
Great choice of aircraft! I took to this aircraft after building the Copper State version of it. But that is a different scale and, I suspect, a much simpler route than your build. It's going to be fun to follow along!
/Fredrik
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on August 31, 2024, 06:01:44 PM
Lovely start Paul. I really like the wrinkles on the fabric, a simple addition but very effective. The header tank looks nice as well.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on August 31, 2024, 09:51:06 PM
Good progress!

That rear part of the tank looks strange....and difficult to shape.

Joachim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on August 31, 2024, 10:02:27 PM
Great start Paul.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on August 31, 2024, 10:08:24 PM
Great choice of aircraft! I took to this aircraft after building the Copper State version of it. But that is a different scale and, I suspect, a much simpler route than your build. It's going to be fun to follow along!
/Fredrik

Thanks Fredrik. I've downloaded a couple of pictures of the CSM 1/48 version which are useful for reference

Lovely start Paul. I really like the wrinkles on the fabric, a simple addition but very effective. The header tank looks nice as well.

Hi Nigel, cheers for that matey. Hopefully by the time I've added some paint they'll look just the ticket

Good progress!
Joachim


Great start Paul.

Warren

 Thanks Joachim and Warren  I'll soon have a kit of parts that I'm happy with and be able to start the actual build  ::)

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: lcarroll on September 01, 2024, 12:22:07 AM
   Great start on an excellent choice Paul, I really like the slow and studied approach you've taken and your improvements to the Kit will prove well worth the effort. As a young Canadian schoolboy I was well aware of Lt. Alan McLeod's heroic actions and his VC Award however the "Big Ack" is still not a well known machine to me, I'm much enjoying this opportunity to follow your progress and learn about what should be "up there" with the Bristol Fighter as a great aircraft of the first Great War.
Cheers,
Lance
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: enathan on September 01, 2024, 01:12:45 AM
Good choice and a good start Paul! I'm always drawn to the lesser known types.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: djuggie on September 01, 2024, 01:53:47 AM
Paul,

Very nice choice of nice model.  This is a late 90s release and was very soon added to my collection.  You prep work is nothing but astonishing and a pleasure to view.  I do not build at that level so it's always a pleasure to see someone take a rough kit and build it into a gem. 

Dennis
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: RAGIII on September 01, 2024, 03:48:22 AM
Missed this until now! Impressive beginnings to fixing this very basic kit!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 01, 2024, 04:38:17 AM
Good choice and a good start Paul! I'm always drawn to the lesser known types.

Cheers matey. Got a bunch of DVII kits waiting to be built, but despite the fabulous colours they wore I can't really summon the same enthusiasm for them as an odd colour scheme or rarely seen shape  ::)

Paul,

Very nice choice of nice model.  This is a late 90s release and was very soon added to my collection.  You prep work is nothing but astonishing and a pleasure to view.  I do not build at that level so it's always a pleasure to see someone take a rough kit and build it into a gem. 

Dennis

Wow thank you Dennis. I really like taking on these older kits and seeing what I can do with them; there's no pressure because of their low value and at the end of the day if it all goes pear shaped I can have a go at something else without feeling guilty  ;)

Missed this until now! Impressive beginnings to fixing this very basic kit!
RAGIII

Cheers RAGIII glad you like what's happening
(I know I check in regularly, but even so a thread draws my attention and I think 'How did I not see this earlier?'  ::)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 07, 2024, 08:44:12 PM
Right didn't get as much done this week as expected, but soon time to be actually building and painting  8)

First up all the flying surfaces have had the tapes added as well as some control horns etc

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 07, 2024, 08:48:32 PM
And having sanded the interior walls down I needed to add some detail to the cockpits. This is the collection of parts ready for a lick of paint and assembly.
Couple of Lewis drum racks and a seat for the gunner and although the pilots position will clearly be impossible to see I couldn't bring myself to not bother with it so a simple instrument panel and really nice resin wicker seat, fuel tank and Vickers have been added. I'll take an 'after' photo when it's all painted before closing up and it's never to be seen again.  ::)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: djuggie on September 08, 2024, 01:04:30 AM
Paul,

Very fine construction, nice and clean.  And due to your addition to the interior, I have sanded down my W29 and will be adding some extra work.  The FK-8 and the W-29 were released about the same time and the quality is very good.  Makes it easy to follow your example.  Sigh.  Me, "Mr. Simple Build", adding details that, like yours, will never see the light of day again.

Dennis
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on September 08, 2024, 01:05:03 AM
Beautiful work! How did you do the rib tapes?
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 08, 2024, 01:13:26 AM
Paul,

Very fine construction, nice and clean.  And due to your addition to the interior, I have sanded down my W29 and will be adding some extra work.  The FK-8 and the W-29 were released about the same time and the quality is very good.  Makes it easy to follow your example.  Sigh.  Me, "Mr. Simple Build", adding details that, like yours, will never see the light of day again.

Dennis

 ;D
Sorry matey, but at least on the W29 it's all easy to see so worth doing.

I've enjoyed every one of these Pegasus kits I've completed; the only difficulty is deciding which to do next  ;)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 09, 2024, 01:25:42 AM
Hooray started to get stuff painted  ;D

Here's the scratchbuilt dash with some paint added. Soon to be fitted an never seen again so I thought it was worth a commemorative photo  ;)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on September 09, 2024, 03:07:10 AM
Lovely instrument panel!

I'm still curious as to how you did your rib tapes.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 09, 2024, 03:14:35 AM
Lovely instrument panel!

I'm still curious as to how you did your rib tapes.

Warren

Cheers Warren

Rib tapes are just scored with a scalpel. I use a flexible 6" rule and tape the wing over a plan on which I've extended the rib lines. Brand new no10a scalpel blade and a light score followed by a second one in the same place which raises a trough. Shift the rule fractionally and repeat then move to the next rib. A light sand afterwards gets rid of any that are too prominent. Rather too many coats of paint on this Roland (also Pegasus), but gives you the idea of how they look when finished.

Hope that helps
Paul


Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on September 09, 2024, 03:22:36 AM
Thanks Paul! I've been looking for a flexible ruler with some thought to doing that.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 09, 2024, 04:17:16 AM
Thanks Paul! I've been looking for a flexible ruler with some thought to doing that.

Warren

Hi Warren. Mine is a just a cheap steel rule I picked up from one of the trade stands. Cost me the Princely sum of 75p (so I bought a couple) I don't think it was being sold as a 'flexible rule, just that the steel is so thin it works that way

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on September 09, 2024, 06:51:47 AM
Thanks Paul! I've been looking for a flexible ruler with some thought to doing that.

Warren

Hi Warren. Mine is a just a cheap steel rule I picked up from one of the trade stands. Cost me the Princely sum of 75p (so I bought a couple) I don't think it was being sold as a 'flexible rule, just that the steel is so thin it works that way

Paul

I want to find something that will serve as a good straight edge, but be flexible enough, etc. to not take off paint.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on September 10, 2024, 06:45:34 PM
Bye bye lovely instrument panel. Schrodinger is waiting to take it away from  you...... ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 10, 2024, 07:58:24 PM
Bye bye lovely instrument panel. Schrodinger is waiting to take it away from  you...... ;)

LOL
Hopefully the carpet monster won't get it first . . . .but then who would know?  ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on September 11, 2024, 12:04:40 AM
Bye bye lovely instrument panel. Schrodinger is waiting to take it away from  you...... ;)

LOL
Hopefully the carpet monster won't get it first . . . .but then who would know?  ;)

We won't ask and you won't tell.  ;) ;) ;)

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 30, 2024, 07:10:51 PM
I haven't been as busy as I'd like with this one as I'd like, but here are a couple of quick progress shots to show you the fuselage is all stitched up and apart from a bit of touching up we're ready for adding some flying surfaces.  :D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 30, 2024, 07:11:50 PM
And I even remembered to add some paint to all those bits and pieces I made for the insides. ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: PrzemoL on September 30, 2024, 07:38:02 PM
Nice work on this oldie. I like your work on the interior.
May I ask - how did you do the stitching on the fuselage?
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on September 30, 2024, 08:00:44 PM
Nice work on this oldie. I like your work on the interior.
May I ask - how did you do the stitching on the fuselage?

Thanks Prze  :D
I used some old Archer rivet decals which I have (sadly no longer available and I'm running out of the ones I have; might just have enough for a couple more models) They do tend to break up into pieces which makes application a bit of a pain and I add a coat of varnish as soon as they are dry. Look good once the paint is added (here's my earlier DH5 under construction so you can see how they look under a coat of paint)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: PrzemoL on September 30, 2024, 08:02:23 PM
Thanks, pity they are not available anymore. The effect on that DH.5 is just great.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on October 01, 2024, 07:51:15 AM
This Archer lacing is was really nice. A swiss modeller (https://modellversium.de/galerie/artikel.php?id=17861&origin=mb) prints his own decals and they look pretty convincing IMHO.

The coaming is that sticky blue and yellow filler that stays flexible after curing?
Was great for vacform props.
Joachim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on October 01, 2024, 05:43:36 PM
That's looking really nice Paul, really looking forward to seeing more.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 01, 2024, 06:03:50 PM
This Archer lacing is was really nice. A swiss modeller (https://modellversium.de/galerie/artikel.php?id=17861&origin=mb) prints his own decals and they look pretty convincing IMHO.

The coaming is that sticky blue and yellow filler that stays flexible after curing?
Was great for vacform props.
Joachim

Hi Joachim. Yes the combing is Duro putty - still a little bit oversize, but better than the last one I made and has the advantage of filling the tiny gap between the edges of the shaved down cockpit that was apparent  ;)

That's looking really nice Paul, really looking forward to seeing more.

Cheers Nigel.
There always seems to be a lot of 'non' progress up to this point then the model comes quickly together and looks 'finished' before another period of little fiddly bits before the end; still I'm getting used to the rhythm of building them now.  ;D (I did knock up a couple of new bases for the recent Spad and Pfalz so they are happily waiting their next outing)

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on October 02, 2024, 08:33:27 AM
Beautiful work!  I love it.

I can also happily tell you that Archer Fine Transfers are open under new management!

https://www.archertransfers.com/

So glad someone picked up this line.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 02, 2024, 08:05:39 PM
Beautiful work!  I love it.

I can also happily tell you that Archer Fine Transfers are open under new management!

https://www.archertransfers.com/

So glad someone picked up this line.

Warren

Thanks and that's great news Warren  ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on October 03, 2024, 01:27:38 AM
Beautiful work!  I love it.

I can also happily tell you that Archer Fine Transfers are open under new management!

https://www.archertransfers.com/

So glad someone picked up this line.

Warren

Thanks and that's great news Warren  ;D

So glad I could make your day happier.  :)

So, you're saying you're using rivet transfers to make stitching?

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on October 05, 2024, 06:06:27 PM
That was really good news, until I discovered they only ship within US.  :'(
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 05, 2024, 06:35:06 PM
That was really good news, until I discovered they only ship within US.  :'(


:'( Yep that's me out as well - ah well. (I have sent them an email anyway . . .)

Model is currently sitting on it's jig with lower wings attached; blimey it's a big beast compared with my usual fare, but should look good next to them. Also resurrected a couple of other builds so progress might be slower on this one than my usual glacial pace  :D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on October 05, 2024, 11:28:15 PM
Ah well, crap!  I didn't see the part about shipping. As popular as the line is, maybe they're looking for a reseller overseas, etc. Paul, let us know what they say.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: RAGIII on October 15, 2024, 03:11:48 AM
That is a sharp looking DH! Terrific build to date!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 15, 2024, 07:40:28 PM
Ah well, crap!  I didn't see the part about shipping. As popular as the line is, maybe they're looking for a reseller overseas, etc. Paul, let us know what they say.

Warren

Shame - Didn't get a reply to my email so I shall have to be a bit parsimonious with the ones I've got  ;)

That is a sharp looking DH! Terrific build to date!
RAGIII

Thanks RAGIII

Spent a lot of time fiddling about with brass for the last few days (Although I did make up some struts and undercarriage for another couple of projects, one of which is currently competing with the Big Ack for my attention)  ::)

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 15, 2024, 07:41:43 PM
At least the wings are now on and set up ready for a final clean up before I get the paint out  ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Herb Collector on October 15, 2024, 10:08:17 PM
That was really good news, until I discovered they only ship within US.  :'(
Are you sure?
I have just put in a order from the UK, no problem, paid with paypal, international postage ?11.

Edit. Thats 11 British pounds postage, for some reason the forum keeps changing the pound sign to ?
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on October 15, 2024, 10:44:09 PM
Looking very nice, and lovely work on those struts!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: RAGIII on October 16, 2024, 12:59:30 AM
The FK8 is looking great! Too bad WNW never got around to one of these  ::) Looking forward to the next update.
RAGIII
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on October 17, 2024, 03:21:58 AM
"Are you sure?"
I was....too early!

Now I tried again, everything allright, they do ship everywhere.
Thank you for pointing out!
Joachim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on October 17, 2024, 03:23:31 AM
And nice work on the struts!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: KiwiZac on October 21, 2024, 02:22:18 PM
Lovely work so far on the kit, and what wonderful news re: Archer!!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 21, 2024, 05:13:00 PM
Thanks guys :D

Spent the weekend masking and painting the linen areas which used nearly a roll of tape.
Slight hiccup that was spotted before it went too far - The masking for the rib tapes applied over the sprayed lighter shade of linen was the thicker (0.7mm tape) rather than the 0.4mm I'd intended. Pondered whether to leave it for a few minutes and then stripped it all off and did it again  :P.
Mixed up some PC10 last night so hopefully the top surfaces will be done later . . . .

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on October 21, 2024, 06:19:52 PM
Slight hiccup that was spotted before it went too far - The masking for the rib tapes applied over the sprayed lighter shade of linen was the thicker (0.7mm tape) rather than the 0.4mm I'd intended. Pondered whether to leave it for a few minutes and then stripped it all off and did it again  :P.

Oh dear. Well worth redoing, because no doubt some know it all would have pointed it out.......... ;) ;D

Does this mean it won't be ready for the Yeovil show at the weekend.....?
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 21, 2024, 06:37:12 PM

Oh dear. Well worth redoing, because no doubt some know it all would have pointed it out.......... ;) ;D

Does this mean it won't be ready for the Yeovil show at the weekend.....?

Sadly not ready for Yeovil matey  :-[ Still made some progress on another 'secret' project whilst I was sulking about rib tapes
What's annoying is I did exactly the same thing last week when using the 0.7 mm tape as spacing for masking when painting some ribs on another model; t'was only after the masks were removed that I spotted the error :(

In other news I've decided on my 'winter'  big build project so will start a thread on that after I've wrapped up these two  ;)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on October 24, 2024, 08:29:22 AM
Sorry Paul, I hate negative modeling.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 24, 2024, 05:09:51 PM
Sorry Paul, I hate negative modeling.

Warren

These things happen mate.  and at least it gives me some more practice laying the thin tapes down straight  ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: macsporran on October 24, 2024, 05:18:30 PM
Total sympathy, Paul. Still you've done the right thing otherwise it would have bothered you every time you looked at it.
Means the finished article will be all the better.
Looking forward to it, I really like this aeroplane.
Sandy
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 24, 2024, 06:00:47 PM
Total sympathy, Paul. Still you've done the right thing otherwise it would have bothered you every time you looked at it.
Means the finished article will be all the better.
Looking forward to it, I really like this aeroplane.
Sandy

Thanks Sandy. I'll be honest I did wonder about leaving them . . . . (But then I thought of Nigel  ;) and decided against it) ;D

Anyway here's a quick snap of the brute with some paint
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 24, 2024, 06:02:13 PM
And a close up of the cockpit and those pesky tapes (which you can hardly see on this pic, but they show up more on the model)  ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on October 24, 2024, 06:13:49 PM
Very nice indeed! The rib tapes look very effective and that interior looks amazing, it's apity the front office will be largely covered by the wing.....

I'll be honest I did wonder about leaving them . . . . (But then I thought of Nigel  ;) and decided against it) ;D
You cheeky boy! But quite right  ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on October 24, 2024, 06:34:23 PM
Very nice indeed! The rib tapes look very effective and that interior looks amazing, it's apity the front office will be largely covered by the wing.....

I'll be honest I did wonder about leaving them . . . . (But then I thought of Nigel  ;) and decided against it) ;D
You cheeky boy! But quite right  ;)

 ;D Cheers matey
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on October 24, 2024, 11:21:00 PM
Beautiful work!!!

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on November 02, 2024, 10:57:48 PM
Thanks Warren

After a brief hiatus sorting out suitable decals I splashed out on some new ones (The original Pegasus ones just broke up in water and of the various old sheets I'd got I couldn't get a set of roundels that were the right size and matched in colour)

Thus we have at last reached the nearly ready for assembly stage ::) The roundels are from AIMS and performed beautifully (who knew applying decals could be so easy) Numbers are from a 1/48 xtradecal sheet and stripes are from somewhere that I can't recall . .

You'll notice the current absence of tail code since the sheet of Pegasus RFC codes I'd got were a very 'yellow' white and looked horrible so I've shelled out for another xtradecal sheet of codes

I'll need to repaint the cowl area which turned very dark under a coat of varnish (I have slapped on a quick coat of neutral grey to get a feel of how it should look in the picture)

Onward and upwards
Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on November 02, 2024, 11:02:48 PM
Beautiful work Paul!

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on November 03, 2024, 02:56:32 AM
That's looking very nice Paul. Good news on the Aims decals as I have those for my Pup, Camel and SE5a (in big boys scale of course!).
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 02, 2025, 08:54:21 PM
Morning all

Spent a bit of time over the holidays catching up with a few projects including this lump that has been hanging around for a while  :-[
Part of the issue was the tail code number which is an unusual font and size. I bought a couple of different sheets of decals which weren't quite right, tried making a stencil up that didn't quite work (I'd already attached the fin which made it harder than necessary) When I found some suitable lettering on an old decal sheet the white was noticeably creamier than the stripe/number on the fuselage  :( Admitting defeat I decided to press on without the serial and get the wing attached which was done using one of my usual jigs
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 02, 2025, 09:04:28 PM
The slight colour change of the PC10, by the way, is done by weathering with oils to give a slightly browner hue. Looking at the model on the jig with it's top wing in place I started contemplating the absence of tail number and decided a bit of artistic licence was called for since adding one at a later stage would be tricky given the various struts and cables. Rummaging deep into the pile of part used decals I came across something in the correct size and suitable font that looked right and used that t decorate the fin with (apologies to Nigel who doubtless will be shocked at my wanton disregard of absolute accuracy)  ;)

I also started threading a few bits of rigging line which can just about be picked out waving above the wing waiting to be trimmed off.  ;D

Speaking of rigging does anyone have a photo of where the aileron lines go after coming out of the fuselage. Annoyingly every photo I've seen seems to crop just short of the outboard strut (The cable appears to enter the wing at the base of this strut, but there may be a pulley wheel?)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on January 02, 2025, 11:25:43 PM
Wonderful work, and I love the jig.

On the oils, did you just brush on a very dilute filter?

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 02, 2025, 11:44:07 PM
Hi Warren - Cheers for that  ;D

I make a jig up for each model (only takes about 1/2 hour)

I pop a few suitable shades onto a piece of card (mount-board) and then dab it neat in spots onto the surface working one panel or area at a time.I'll pop on a few colours or shades and then blend with a clean dry brush sort of scrubbing them on. You can use a tiny amount of thinners if needed or to remove, but if you are too vigorous with thinners you can start to remove the acrylic varnish (I usually brush a couple of thinned coats of varnish on the model and let them dry well before tackling the oil stage) At them moment I'm using the Rowney Artists clear varnishes which can darken the colours a bit, but are reliable and easily mixed to get the sheen level I'm after.

Hope that helps
Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on January 03, 2025, 01:57:08 AM
Nice progress, I'm looking forward to seeing this one done. I'll see if I can find some photos of those wires for you.....

tried making a stencil up that didn't quite work
Hmmmm. If only you knew a good signwriter..... ;)

You will be reminded of the inaccurate serials each time you display her, apart from that I will say nothing ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on January 03, 2025, 02:26:21 AM
Paul, thank you, yes, that helped.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 03, 2025, 02:38:12 AM
Nice progress, I'm looking forward to seeing this one done. I'll see if I can find some photos of those wires for you.....

tried making a stencil up that didn't quite work
Hmmmm. If only you knew a good signwriter..... ;)

You will be reminded of the inaccurate serials each time you display her, apart from that I will say nothing ;D

 ;D Funny guy . . .

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 05, 2025, 10:19:39 PM
Rigging continued . . .

For those interested I drill through both surfaces thread and glue the line in place at one end using medium grade superglue. When that's dry thread the free end through the opposite hole and hang a self closing tweezers to get a bit of tension on the line and then a drop of superglue secures the second end. Once everything is secure, trim the ends flush and touch up as required.
The holes are 0.2 mm and the fishing line is 0.06 mm (Thicker line tends to bow as it enters the hole unless it is drilled in the same direction as the line. Using the very thinnest line means the holes doesn't need to be angled which helps cut down on drills snapping) Marking the end of the line with a Sharpie makes it easier to see as you thread it through the hole  ;)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on January 06, 2025, 06:59:37 PM
It still pains me to see those lovely painted surfaces drilled through when I see this method used. But you always do a great job of disguising the holes (which I never could!).
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 06, 2025, 07:12:58 PM
It still pains me to see those lovely painted surfaces drilled through when I see this method used. But you always do a great job of disguising the holes (which I never could!).

I feel the same way Nigel.
I have tried not painting the upper/lower surfaces on one recent small build (Still prepped and primed) It was certainly easier to disguise the holes, but was a bit of a game masking and I was worried about damage the whole time so a bit too stressful for me. I use a hair dryer when painting to help the acrylic dry between layers - not ideal with fie lines :P

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 14, 2025, 09:56:19 PM
Well this one seems to have dragged on a bit, but rigging is all there apart from the control lines; doubled flying wires made it a bit of a cats cradle, but managed to avoid any crossed lines. I did box myself into a corner slightly because I'd forgotten about the big old radiators which are very characteristic and some delicate work was needed to glue these in place between the lines. I did one at a time and propped the model on a wingtip so gravity would hold them in place whilst the 24 hour Araldite went off flipping onto the opposite tip once the first had dried  ??? (I hate superglue at the best of times and the idea of trying to use it in this area was just too much)

Waiting for the varnish over the touched up areas to dry and then I'll weather those into the wing and add the expansion tank on the wing with its pipework. (I've also had another model on the bench to work on in between times which is at a similar stage of completion so hopefully both will be completed shortly and it'll be onto the 'Shelf Queen' build) ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on January 14, 2025, 10:33:45 PM
Wonderful and inspiring work sir!

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on January 14, 2025, 10:35:52 PM
Looking very fine! (double meaning  :) )
How many drills do you kill need per model?
Greetings Joachim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 14, 2025, 10:59:05 PM
Wonderful and inspiring work sir!

Warren

Thanks Warren - the end is in sight at last . . . . ;)

Looking very fine! (double meaning  :) )
How many drills do you kill need per model?
Greetings Joachim

Cheers Joachim  ;D
Started using 0.2mm on this one (rather than the 0.3mm I had been using before)so a few drills were killed on this one; I got through about 12 whilst making the holes which isn't ideal although a couple of drills were broken because I dropped them on the floor rather than snapped them in the model. Good news is that I was breaking fewer as I got used to them so hopefully I'll manage better on the next model. The 0.2 mm hole is small enough that I didn't need to fill and sand the 'exit' holes which were pretty much filled with the superglue/line. Might even try just drilling half way through the top wing on the next one  :-\ :)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Jorgo on January 14, 2025, 11:02:35 PM
Excellent rigging, Paul.
You must have a very steady hand and strong nerves. Respect !
Joerg
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on January 16, 2025, 07:44:31 PM
This is looking really good Paul, especially with  the radiators in place which give it that unique Big Ack look.

I did one at a time and propped the model on a wingtip so gravity would hold them in place whilst the 24 hour Araldite went off ......
They do a 5 minute version you know...... ;)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 16, 2025, 09:14:29 PM
Excellent rigging, Paul.
You must have a very steady hand and strong nerves. Respect !
Joerg

Thank you Joerg  ;D

This is looking really good Paul, especially with  the radiators in place which give it that unique Big Ack look.

I did one at a time and propped the model on a wingtip so gravity would hold them in place whilst the 24 hour Araldite went off ......
They do a 5 minute version you know...... ;)

Hi Nigel - yes they make a big difference to the look of the model (Never really got on with the 5 minute stuff so don't have any on the shelf. That's my escuse and I'm sticking to it ;D)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on January 16, 2025, 09:29:46 PM
That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it ;D)
In 24 hours....... ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: RAGIII on January 17, 2025, 01:58:08 AM
I have just caught up on your build Paul. You are turning this Old Limited Run kit into a real stunner! I love the painting, Markings, and rigging. All are very well done.
RAGIII
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 17, 2025, 03:20:31 AM
That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it ;D)
In 24 hours....... ;D
LOL ;D

I have just caught up on your build Paul. You are turning this Old Limited Run kit into a real stunner! I love the painting, Markings, and rigging. All are very well done.
RAGIII

Glad you're enjoying it so far RAGIII. Home straight now . . .
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Allan31 on January 17, 2025, 07:55:21 AM
Nice looking Paul.
I'm resisting trying the one-true-scale for WW1 as it's a rabbit hole I want to avoid as long as possible.
That said, I have multiple dozens of WW2 in 1/72 scale with the only rigging being an antenna wire.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 17, 2025, 06:58:33 PM
Hi Allan glad you like it.

You know that you're going to succumb to building some 'Gentleman's Scale' WW1 stuff at some point  . . . there's no use resisting jump into the rabbit hole there's plenty of room ;D

Honestly there's such a wide range of models available and that's before you realize that they don't take up much shelf space and (usually) ;) don't drag on for months and all those lovely details can be implied or suggested rather than needing to be fully operational to look right  :o

Cheers
Paul

ps - currently waiting for the oil weathering to dry on this one so am working on the model it's sharing the bench with (small and German)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 26, 2025, 11:33:16 PM
Well with the Lohner done there was no excuse but to press on with 'the beast'  ;) There have been a few points during the build that it's nearly taken flight but getting closer to calling it done now. Big mistake not fitting the external controls before completing the rest of the rigging; I managed to snap a couple of cables which meant some 'choice' language rang out from the workroom. After a calm down one was replaced, but I decided to ignore the second one for fear of causing more damage than I was repairing

Since the original white metal tailskid was missing I needed to concoct something to stop the rear end scraping along the ground; a few scraps of brass some wire and solder gave an acceptable version and then it was onto the main undercarriage. A few liberties taken here, but few will get close enough to be able to tell . . . ::) Some bungee cords to add and then a lick of paint needed before being able to have it correct way up and ready for taxiing  8)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 26, 2025, 11:36:00 PM
Spotted one of the outer struts had come loose so repaired that with a couple of spots of superglue even though the rigging was holding everything tight.

Here's the main undercarriage (If it looks familiar that's because it was a modified version of the one fitted to the Bristol Fighter)

Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Allan31 on January 27, 2025, 01:05:08 AM
We're sure that's 1/72?  Loverly.....
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: andonio64 on January 27, 2025, 02:11:21 AM
Some really great work here, Paul!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on January 27, 2025, 02:27:17 AM
This build continues to amaze and satisfy. Wonderful work!

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 27, 2025, 02:35:43 AM
We're sure that's 1/72?  Loverly.....

LOL (We won't talk about the paint finish when you look at it closely though eh) ;)

Some really great work here, Paul!

Cheers matey  ;D

This build continues to amaze and satisfy. Wonderful work!

Warren

Glad you're enjoying Warren.  :)
I almost tested it's aerodynamic properties the other day when I accidentally cut one of the wires running from the nose to base of the front strut (Now since replaced)  8)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on January 27, 2025, 04:49:48 AM
I almost tested it's aerodynamic properties the other day when I accidentally cut one of the wires running from the nose to base of the front strut (Now since replaced)  8)
Phew, I'm glad you didn't, I want to see this one completed and on the SIG table.....! It's looking good....
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on January 27, 2025, 04:57:17 AM
I'm glad you didn't test it as well, I too am looking forward to seeing the finished bird.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 27, 2025, 05:23:32 AM
I almost tested it's aerodynamic properties the other day when I accidentally cut one of the wires running from the nose to base of the front strut (Now since replaced)  8)
Phew, I'm glad you didn't, I want to see this one completed and on the SIG table.....! It's looking good....

Cheers Nigel Hoped to finish it this weekend, but life stuff got in the way  ::)

I'm glad you didn't test it as well, I too am looking forward to seeing the finished bird.

Warren

Thanks Warren.  :)

Bit of touching up, some weathering on the freshly painted areas to blend them in and make up the rear cockpit gun . . .  so that'll be about 3 weeks then  :o ;D

On the plus side I noticed that from the rear if you peer closely you can see the pilot's instrument panel (I knew that would be seen obviously) :P
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Tim Mixon on January 31, 2025, 05:40:25 AM
Beautifully done Paul.  Not an easy kit for sure.

All the best,
Tim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on January 31, 2025, 05:58:06 AM
Beautifully done Paul.  Not an easy kit for sure.

All the best,
Tim

Hi Tim
Thanks for that matey. I seem to have made rather a meal of this one, but it's currently sitting on the bench waiting a couple of final details and then it'll be ready for its 'Ta Da!' moment and photographing ;D

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 09, 2025, 10:12:37 PM
Well that took a bit longer than expected, but we got there in the end  ;)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54315317112_689b607c94_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2qKEcsG)FK8 side (https://flic.kr/p/2qKEcsG) by Paul S (https://www.flickr.com/photos/202177392@N05/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54315317132_f33c13ebff_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2qKEct3)FK8 controls (https://flic.kr/p/2qKEct3) by Paul S (https://www.flickr.com/photos/202177392@N05/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54316205366_228a72fa87_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2qKJKvq)FK8 underside (https://flic.kr/p/2qKJKvq) by Paul S (https://www.flickr.com/photos/202177392@N05/), on Flickr

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54316434444_8df4f67e6b_o.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2qKKVB3)FK8 cockpit close up (https://flic.kr/p/2qKKVB3) by Paul S (https://www.flickr.com/photos/202177392@N05/), on Flickr


I'll post some other pictures on the completed section since it's now on it's snowy base.
Thanks for the encouragement and comments during the rather protracted build. Time to clean the desk off and see what appears next  ::)

Paul
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: petrov27 on February 09, 2025, 10:24:00 PM
Wow that is a really fine build and finish - love what you have done with this kit!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 09, 2025, 10:57:36 PM
Wow that is a really fine build and finish - love what you have done with this kit!

 ;D Cheers Patrick.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: WD on February 10, 2025, 01:22:32 AM
That is a beautiful piece of work. Not an easy kit at all IMHO, and you produced something wonderful out of it. I love the paintwork, rigging, etc.

Warren
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 10, 2025, 02:06:07 AM
That is a beautiful piece of work. Not an easy kit at all IMHO, and you produced something wonderful out of it. I love the paintwork, rigging, etc.

Warren

Thanks Warren
There's a good model in the parts just waiting for a bit of love  :D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Dirigible-Al on February 10, 2025, 02:38:44 AM
Great finish on the Big Ack Paul. It looks superb.
Alan.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Kreston on February 10, 2025, 06:29:01 AM
A fantastic build...nice and clean!
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Richtrad on February 10, 2025, 08:55:02 AM
I really can't believe this is a 1/72 Pegasus. The close ups show what a brilliant job you've done.

Warren Q
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: andonio64 on February 10, 2025, 06:51:40 PM
I really can't believe this is a 1/72 Pegasus. The close ups show what a brilliant job you've done.

Warren Q

I totally agree with Warren!
Great result Paul.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 10, 2025, 07:04:58 PM
Great finish on the Big Ack Paul. It looks superb.
Alan.

Cheers Alan, appreciate it  ;D

I really can't believe this is a 1/72 Pegasus. The close ups show what a brilliant job you've done.

Warren Q

Glad you like it Warren. I'm growing increasingly fond of the old Pegasus models which are a solid basis for interesting models and they offer something a bit different  ;)

I really can't believe this is a 1/72 Pegasus. The close ups show what a brilliant job you've done.

Warren Q

I totally agree with Warren!
Great result Paul.

Thanks Andonio  ;D
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: NigelR on February 10, 2025, 07:58:49 PM
This is a lovely build, I saw it in the flesh at the weekend. But shouldn't there be an extra flying wire on that RH rear bay...... ;) ;D Seriously though, very nice work on a challenging kit.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 10, 2025, 08:16:08 PM
This is a lovely build, I saw it in the flesh at the weekend. But shouldn't there be an extra flying wire on that RH rear bay...... ;) ;D Seriously though, very nice work on a challenging kit.

 ::)  :D
Obviously that's why the aircraft is sitting there waiting for the replacement wire to be fitted  ;D

Glad you like liked it Nigel - next up is probably another two seater, but who knows . . . .
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Tim Mixon on February 10, 2025, 09:11:49 PM
Excellent finish Paul!  I really like your linen representation on the bottom surfaces. 

All the best,
Tim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 10, 2025, 09:22:13 PM
Excellent finish Paul!  I really like your linen representation on the bottom surfaces. 

All the best,
Tim

Thanks Tim

(I'm using oils more and more over the basic acrylic colours to get a variation on the tone)
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Flamingo on February 11, 2025, 11:26:29 PM
Probably only the second Big Ack I see completd, the first one was by a certain Mr Gannon on his trade stand!  ;D
Like your model very much and completely agree with Tim, will download the picture as reference.
Regards Joachim
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 11, 2025, 11:34:54 PM
Probably only the second Big Ack I see completd, the first one was by a certain Mr Gannon on his trade stand!  ;D
Like your model very much and completely agree with Tim, will download the picture as reference.
Regards Joachim

That's very flattering Joachim.  ;D
It's certainly a different shape from the much better looking two seaters used by Germany (I'm thinking of the o so lovely Rumplers with their elegannt noses and swept back wings and tail) It does have a certain brutal charm all of its own though and one of the draws for me of the period is the variety of designs used
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: Allan31 on February 12, 2025, 01:58:29 PM
So well done Paul, will be zipping over to the completed section.
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: RAGIII on February 27, 2025, 04:00:02 AM
Stunning results Paul!
RAGIII
Title: Re: Pegasus Big Ack
Post by: DaddyO on February 27, 2025, 04:18:29 AM
So well done Paul, will be zipping over to the completed section.
Stunning results Paul!
RAGIII

Cheers guys  ;D