forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com
WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: vincentm on April 12, 2014, 03:55:54 AM
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This is my first WWI a/c build. Not my first 1/72 a/c though, as I started scratching and glueing plastic decades ago...This is probably the reason why I remained faithfull to my usual scale, although I now realize that those very aircraft come with particular problems in 1/72nd scale, like simulating natural material like wood, metal or fabric; building wire stretchers, laminated props and so on.
I plan to build a (small) batch of 15-20 WWI ace aircraft of the european front.
I started with collecting reference info (thank God, Windsock is among us), and my first task was to find the most accurate kit. I compared several and finally chose the Roden issue for the following reasons:
-first of all it almost perfectly matches the WD 1/72 plans
-accuracy of bent up aileron tips (compared to Revell or Eduard kits)
-better fin/fuselage joint
-detailed engine
-optional propellers (although only 2 are provided, it's already better than those kits that come only with one...)
Negative points:
-upper wing molded in 3 pieces, which will require some strengthening and adjustment
-lower wing in 2 parts, without anything provided to attach it to the fuselage
...but I have some experience with short-run biplane kits, and with drilling holes or adding plastic bits so the whole thing stays together.
-ah, one more thing: the Roden kit is a D-Va, with distinctive features like additionnal reinforcement bars on the base of the V-struts, and D-III-type aileron wire controls. Nothing really difficult to modify to make it a D-V
This is what the kit looks like, although it would be better with a less blurry image:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/_kit_r11.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1452&u=11494792)
After reading a few books, I decided to make a black D-V with lozenge-covered wings, and found period pics of Udet's, Loerzer's, Kissenberth's and Jacob's mounts that would match this requirements. Jacob's plane was soon eliminated as I only found the photo of a wreck. I could identify it as a D-V from the aileron horns, but the rest is a heap of small wood and fabric. Kissenberth's birds are well documented but I needed a better-known pilot to stard with. Udet's machine is supposed to be a D-Va, has external aileron cables but no reinforcement struts, I found it suspicious. In the end there was Bruno Loerzer's D-V, the s/n of which is known, and I could identify most important details I know about so far (prop type, wing camo, additionnal rigging, wheel-axle fairing). Here it is:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_pr11.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1453&u=11494792)
Period pics (sorry, the comments are in french but roughly describe the details I mentioned above)
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_ph13.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1454&u=11494792)
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_ph14.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1455&u=11494792)
I couldn't find any decal sheet that includes Loerzer's plane, but as it consists mainly in black items (the 6 point-star on a white band, and s/n on an unpainted wooden area on the fin), I drew them in an image program and printed that on clear decal:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/_decal14.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1456&u=11494792)
Since 2 engines are provided in the kit, this gave me the idea of building a small scene I made a sketch of:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_di14.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1457&u=11494792)
Let's start scratching plastic now. I started by cutting away the elevator, rudder and skid:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta153.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1458&u=11494792)
I put the airframe aside and noticed the valve springs were missing on the engine. I wrapped copper wire around a pin to make them (which is something most of you are probably used to do...):
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta154.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1459&u=11494792)
After having added valve springs, a camshaft, rockers, spark wires, a few pipes and further wires, I painted the 2 engines, built an engine stand from match bits, and used oil paint to give them an oily look:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta155.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1460&u=11494792)
I then tried to give a plywood aspect to the cockpit, and painted an additionnal "wood" plate that will provide missing fuselage walls, dashboard and floor:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta156.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1461&u=11494792)
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Bloody hell!
For your first WW1 model aircraft your work so far looks brilliant - love your engine!
Keep going as you are - you seem to be doing really well. Good luck on the remainder of the build - I shall follow your work with real interest.
Regards
Dave
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Bloody hell!
For your first WW1 model aircraft your work so far looks brilliant - love your engine!
Keep going as you are - you seem to be doing really well. Good luck on the remainder of the build - I shall follow your work with real interest.
Regards
Dave
Yeah! What Dave said! Phenomenal.
Cheers,
Bud
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Thanks, guys. It looks like I already love working on WWI birds, cos it's pretty rewarding. Lots of things you do remain visible compared to WWII planes. But I still have quite a lot to learn on these machines.
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Very nice start indeed Vincent!
Regarding some of your "identifying marks" for the DV - not all DVa's had the reinforcement to the front of the interplane struts - some DV's DID have it retrofitted, so it's not a good indicator. Similarly, the upper drag wire was not on all machines, it may have been an addition made at the Squadron level?
Basically, if it has the little fairings on the ailerons for the actuators, and the control wires run up from the cockpit to the upper wing, it IS a DV. It would probably also have a small fairing over the spent shell chute on the left MG, which was more common on the DV's.
For wood painting in this scale, I find it very easy to overdo it. My own technique is to paint everything Clear Doped Linen (CDL) or similar, then brush the wood colour over that, but don't stir it properly! It will streak and look pretty good! (in my opinion anyway!) I use leather for the wood colour which works well with the CDL. A darker undercoat can be used for darker woods.
Ian
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Hi Vincent, cool project, great start, I love your approach.
What Ian said -- the lines between the D.V and the D.Va (not even an official IdFlieg designation) are extremely blurry. The only real harbinger is the routing of the aileron cables (as Ian said).
Not sure if you care or if it will even be visible, but much of the inside of the engine compartment (which you have painted silver) was actually wood. It is often depicted painted interior green on the lower half.
I love the sketch of your vignette with your notes, and I can't believe you are attempting valve springs in 1/72 scale :)
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Holy Buckets! What a great start.
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Incredible work on the engine Vincent, your attention to detail is amazing.
Des.
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Good grief, Vincent, I don't know how you can do such wonderful modelling
in the teeny scale. The engine is amazing...valve springs? You are quite a
talent, my friend!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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:o my dear the engine is one of the best I`ve seen in 1/72nd!
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Gosh Vincent, this is impressive work. I can't wait to see more.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Thanks! If I got it well, the only distinctive detail between a D-V and a D-Va is the aileron cables. Which means Udet's black D-V is a D-Va then, even without the additionnal wing strut. Good to know.
then brush the wood colour over that, but don't stir it properly!
Thanks for the tip. Yes I already noticed that if you don't stir enough your paint, you get precisely the effect you would want to simulate wood.
The valve springs are a little too big for the scale, but I don't mind too much with emphasizing (is that correct LOL?) some small details to make them more visible, guess this is particular to 1/72nd.
No I don't think the color of the inside of the engine compartment will be visible, I made some tests with the engine inside the fuselage halves. I scratchbuilt the oil tank though, just in case...Since then I been working on the pit, more pix soon.
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Outstanding! Agree with what everyone else has said, so won't repeat
but can't wait to see the rest, and how you beat the challenges of 1/72 intro submission :)
Mark
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Excellent start as all of the others have emphasized! Looks really good so far!! I am certainly looking forward to the remainder of your build!
RAGIII
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While I think of it, there are one or two things you may want to know in advance about this kit.
You mentioned the 3 piece upper wing: that really isn't a problem, you should get a good solid join without any pins as it's flat. The lower wing joint is differant. You will need to thin the underside of the centresection wing stub as it is too thick. (match up the wings in a dry run and you'll see what I mean). Also the inspection panels that Roden moulded onto it shouldn't be there (Take a look at the DVa walkaround pics on the TVAL site). The final major issue I found was that the cabane (fuselage mounted) struts need to be adjusted in length to fit in the correct locations. You may want to check that before attempting to mount the upper wing!
Ian
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Terrific engine Vincent, can't help repeating how I admire those small scale modelers. Well done!
Kind regards
Patrick
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Hello Vincent:
Great start to this kit. Like Bo Mentioned: Valve springs in 1/72nd! Outstanding workmanship. I always liked the Loerzer markings and look forward to following your build log.
Best
Mark
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Thanks all.
And thanks for your advices, Ian. As for the upper wing, one more problem is the fact that the radiator will be very close to the seam with the right wing...
You will need to thin the underside of the centresection wing stub as it is too thick. Also the inspection panels that Roden moulded onto it shouldn't be there (Take a look at the DVa walkaround pics on the TVAL site).
OK, I was wondering about this rounded panel as the Windsock plan doesn't show this area. It is hidden by the wheel axle fairing. Yes I've noticed I'll have to thin up the center wing portion. And I will have to manage to add metal rods on each side to secure the lower wing assembly.
The final major issue I found was that the cabane (fuselage mounted) struts need to be adjusted in length to fit in the correct locations. You may want to check that before attempting to mount the upper wing!
OK I hadn't noticed that. Are they too long or too short??
I've added the small "lips" to the engine cowling aperture using stretched sprue fixed with CA:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta157.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1475&u=11494792)
I first added the wooden parts to the pit, that is the engine/pit wall, the partial floor and half dashboard on the right side. As well as the small copper oil tank. The empty shell recovery box was roughly made from folded aluminum, it won't be much visible. I made one more attempt at painting the prop with masking tape, this time it doesn't look too bad, I may use it like this.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta158.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1476&u=11494792)
I've collected material and pics of preserved printed fabric to draw this sample in a paint program, adding a faded and fabric effect. Then I've printed that on a clear decal sheet.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/allema30.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1480&u=11494792)
I used my own home made lozenges for the rear cockpit wall, and may also use them for the upper wings. I've also built the main tank in front of the wooden wall, then added the seat with it's tubular stand, stick, rudder pedals and remaining instruments on their holding tube. I used FCM decals for the instruments.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta159.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1477&u=11494792)
After that, I could stick the fuselage halves onto each-other but it hasn't been easy to house everything. Some inner parts are oversized for the scale, but I had to cope with the size of the decal gauges and Roden parts like seat and stick.
After that, I drilled a hole through the elevator roots to put a strengthening rod. Now it's time for usual sanding of the joints and rescribing, then I'll have to drill the holes for rigs and control wires.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta161.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1479&u=11494792)
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I like what you are doing Vincent!
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The cockpit and engine look superb Vincent, and I like your home printed lozenge, you are achieving remarkable results in 1:72 scale, amazing workmanship.
Des.
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Magnificent Vincent, your cockpit is awesome. Great modeling.
Kind regards
Patrick
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The engine and cockpit look wonderful.
Adam.
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Excellent work in such a small scale, Vincent. The engine and cockpit look
terrific. I really like the instruments, as well as the scratch-building. Really nicely done.
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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What you've accomplished in such a tiny subject is very impressive Vincent. This level of detail is hard to produce in any scale; this is great work, well researched and well executed!
Cheers,
Lance
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Thanks. Yes I realize that these aircraft are pretty small in 1/72nd. I had a hard time trying to drill holes in the wing roots to put strengthening rods. The wings are barely more than one millimeter thick...
It's going to be even worse with the struts. As Ian suggested, I'm considering scratching them or giving up the idea of adding pins.
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I'm totally in awe of your work in this scale, Vincent -
Absolutely amazing work so far.
Regards
Dave
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Hi Vincent, you should be fine with the kit wings, just a little adjustment as previously mentioned, strengthening shouldn't be an issue as the wings aren't heavy. The front lower end of the cabane struts is a fraction too long. Trial fitting and adjustment is needed here.
Ian
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A lot of modelers put less work into 1/48th cockpits. I am impressed with what you are doing in 1/72nd!
RAGIII
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Ok thanks for the info Ian. Shortening struts is always easier than lengthening them (which usually ends up in scratching them...). For my previous late 30s biplanes, I used templates attached to the lower wings to hold the upper wing in place while putting the struts. Think I'll do the same here.
I've made a print of my latest lozenge sample and it's definitely too light, specially the blue and purplish-violet. So I think my previous attempt (the lozenges that were applied to the aft cockpit wall) seems the best I made and I'm going to prepare a ready-for-application print. I mean, rather than cutting slices you need to apply at 90° on the wings, I will build-up the full pattern for each wing in the paint program, and apply only one big lozenge decal on each, in order to reduce the count of decal seams. Is that a good idea or is it more difficult to apply wing-size decals?
I was looking for something else, and found evidence of the additionnal hatch that Roden has molded under the lower wing central section. Unfortunately it will be sanded away when the part is attached, to match the fuselage underside, so I'll have to rebuild it from adhesive aluminum sheet. Of interest is the gap between the right lower wing and it's root. Something we would find unacceptable on a model...
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_un10.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1481&u=11494792)
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_un11.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1482&u=11494792)
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Here's some news. Firstly, I strengthened the lower wing attachment, as nothing was really provided for that. When I got a correct fit, I put the wings apart as they will be painted and covered with lozenges before assembly.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta163.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1510&u=11494792)
I did the same on the upper wing. I also filled up the gap around the aileron controls, the kit being definitely a D-Va. I added the small plate which covers the aileron pulley on D-V's:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta164.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1511&u=11494792)
After that, I noticed that the elevator had become too narrow after I glued the stabilizer separately, so it required to be widened by adding a piece of plastic that was sanded in place. The control horns were rebuilt, being one-piece (up and down) on each side:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta165.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1512&u=11494792)
Then, the lower wing central section was attached to the lower fuselage, followed by the rear control surfaces. Control cables were added as well as aluminum hinges:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta166.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1513&u=11494792)
The first sub-assembly is done, that is the fuselage and tail, that will have to be painted before going any further. I applied paint undercoats: medium brown for wooden parts, aluminum for the cowling and gun fairing, and tan for control surfaces. I painted wood veins on the fin only, as the wood will remain visible around the serial number. Besides this, I assembled the upper wing and scratchbuilt the control horns and fairings that are typical to a D-V:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta167.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1514&u=11494792)
I tested several samples of home printed lozenges to check what they looked like and what should be the correct undercoat color. The grey undercoat makes definitely too dark lozenges. Colors look a little too bright IMO on a white undercoat, so I think light tan is the best option. The version marked 1 has a too dark shade of purplish-grey that looks rather wine-red (although there is a Fokker D-VII replica that has lozenges almost this color). As a conclusion, I still hesitate between 2 and 3, but it looks like the polygons are a little too big in "3", so "2" is likely to become the definitive option.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta168.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1515&u=11494792)
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Looking fantastic Vincent, The cockpit and engine are fantastic! I think I will have to invest in some decal paper myself and start printing my own as finding aftermarket decals in 1/72 for some of the more esoteric machines is a little hard! Will be watching this one. My next few I intend to up the level of cockpit and interior details.
As for the lozenge I would agree 2 def looks the best, 3 is too big.
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Thanks.
Yes as for the lozenges, after having compared several decal sheets with pics of preserved printed fabric, I found the Almark and Pegasus ones were too dark, and the colors were not exactly was I was expecting on Old Prop (Wood and Wire) and Techmod sheets. This is only for upper 5 color lozenges, I think Pegasus and Old Prop decals are pretty accurate for the lower ones.
To increase color density at printing, I passed the paper and printed twice on the same area.
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A fantastic build and paint until now Vincent.
Martin
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Thanks. I unfortunately had to revert back to where I was a few days ago, cos the brown "wood" undercoat remained sticky after 2 or 3 days, so I had to remove it.
But meanwhile, thanks to the advice a friend modeller gave me, I've been able to make a successfull test with building wires with buckles and stretchers. This is what it looks like:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/hauban10.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1516&u=11494792)
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Current state of the bird:
First, the painted and decorated fuselage. A few paint flakes have been made but it's still waiting for furhter weathering:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta181.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1541&u=11494792)
Applying lozenges to the wings has taken several days. Adding the rib tapes is particularly time consuming, I'm glad I'm done with this. The tapes are pink on top and below, as it is supposed to be on Johannistahl-built aircraft:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta178.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1538&u=11494792)
WIP on the upper wing. It was primarily painted in light tan to slightly alter the color of lozenges as it was the case on real aircraft:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta179.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1539&u=11494792)
Now all sub-assemblies in their current state. The prop has received Wolff logos (from the shape I suppose it is a Wolff one), and the wheel axle fairing has also been covered with lozenges (it is barely visible beneath the prop). The third arrow shows the painted prop cone.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta180.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1540&u=11494792)
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Very nice indeed, Vincent, I especially like the prop! I'm looking forward to seeing it all put together.
Ian
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Looks really nice Vincent, but it is unlikely the fairing between the wheels would be covered with lozenge -- it was made of plywood.
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Looks fantastic Vincent, the lozenge is very well done.
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Thanks.
Bo, thanks for your info about the wheel axle fairing. The strange irregular shades seen on this pic
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/doc_ph15.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1542&u=11494792)
made me think maybe the fairing had been either covered with lozenge-printed fabric, or painted to look as such (since I know lozenges were sometimes hand-painted on fuselage parts). What d'you think?
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I think that is spilled engine oil reflecting the light differently, not lozenge.
I'm with RB. Seems very unlikely that they would go to the trouble of painting lozenge on just the fairing, it would be an exception if they did. A prototype DV had a hand painted loz fuselage, but I know of no others.
There would be no reason to cover the plywood in fabric.
As RB points out, the fairing tends to collect quite a bit of oil from the engine, along with other debris.
Finally, there is a row of six hinges on the front of fairing, these are finished like the other metal bits, I think that's partly what you are seeing.
The fairing is actually four pieces, split in the middle right and left and wraps over the axle in clamshell fashion. Hence the hinges in front.
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This excellent photo by Jamo of a TVAL repro tells the story best:
(http://i1011.photobucket.com/albums/af234/Jamo_kiwi/Albatros%20DV/AlbDVadetails6.jpg)
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Thanks for the explanations. I knew that fairing was made of plywood but I didn't think about it being covered with oil or dirt...Mmmm, I have to think it over. It looks to me there is clearly a triangular and regular dark shade on the front top of the fairing, which looks rather weird as for oil spills...Don't know what to do with this now. :(
You have posted the photo while I was typing...From the location of the central hinges, it appears that what I see could just be dirt around those hinges.
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It may be that it was painted to match the fuselage decor, now you are wandering into the realm of pure speculation (absent a better photo)...
Ain't WWI modelling fun? ;)
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That really is outstanding work. The detail is very good. haven't been here for while as I've been making things with one wing or that are a bit too modern with two but you've got me interested again in doing a WW1 biplane.
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Beautiful work on the striped fuselage and Lozenge! As for the axle cover I tend to agree with Bo.
RAGIII
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Thank you all.
now you are wandering into the realm of pure speculation...Ain't WWI modelling fun?
To tell the truth, I thought it would be worse. I just started reading WD books a few months ago and was surprised by the amount of existing photos. But when it comes to details now, well it's another story. Pure speculation are the right words...But I love WWI modelling though, just because those aircraft are so much rewarding.
However, I might take a little rest building a "relaxing" WWII monoplane before I get to the Pfalz D-IIIa that should follow...My nerves will need it.
I ended up scratch-building a full new fairing with aluminum tape hinges and metal wheel axles. I just painted it wood brown as an undercoat. We'll see for the color later, but it should be white.
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Here's the scratchbuilt wheel axle fairing. 2 hinges were still missing when I took the pics. Then I put back in place the tailskid I had cut away:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta182.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1543&u=11494792)
At this scale, the lower wings are so thin that you can see the light go through, making them look like stained glass.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta183.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1544&u=11494792)
I made a new trial at making the wires, this time without glue: the nylon thread is stretched through both micro-tubes. On the kit, I will add a drop of glue into each tube to make sure it remains tense enough.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta184.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1545&u=11494792)
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Nice work, Vincent. I feel guilty for putting you through the extra work on the axle fairing, hopefully it was worthwhile.
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Looks great! I can't remember ever seeing as many great Tiny scale Albies under construction at one time. Your build and the other, Jasta 5 multi build are a real treat to follow!
RAGIII
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Thanks, and yes it looks like 1/72 Albatroses are "fashion". That's cool cos we can grab tips from each other and see how fellow modellers cope with some details.
I feel guilty for putting you through the extra work on the axle fairing
Never mind Bo, that was a good occasion to scratchbuild this part since the original one was not the right shape and lacked hinges. Moreover, I made stronger metal wheel axles.
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Graet work Vincent.
Martin
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Amazing work, Vincent. :D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Wow Vincent! It's a long long time since I had a go at a 1/72 Albatros and it's amazing what you have achieved so far.
Best wishes
Nigel
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Hello vincentm
As I said in my topic, I am very impressed by your work.
Incredible detail and most splendid work camouflage.
I really like schemes logenze, but I've never performed one, it seems to me very difficult.
Аmazing work.
BRAVO.
I look forward with great interest the following posts.
Best Regards
Hristo
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Thank you Hristo. As for me, I'm impressed with the detailing on your Eduard Albatroses!
About lozenges, it is definitely very "time consuming". As I printed my own decals, I thought it would be easier to make only one large decal that would cover the entire wing. But when it came to cutting out the radiator and aileron areas, I realized it was not a good idea and had to cut my decal in stripes so I could apply each area and have the cutouts match the radiator and aileron shapes. If you want to have a go with printing custom lozenges, here's a sample of my work. You just need to paste the pattern in a paint program, rotating it 180° each time, to make a row of ready-to-print lozenges:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/_decal15.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1548&u=11494792)
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Thank you very much for the sample.
I got the idea to print decals for Jasta 5 project because I can't find needed in stock.
Can I ask you to describe how you approach the work with hand-made decals.
Thanks in advance.
Best Regards
Hristo
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I use my standard inkjet printer and Experts Choice clear decal sheets. To increase color density, I print the items twice on the same decal area. Then you need to allow ink to dry at least overnight. The next day, apply a good coat of gloss varnish with a smooth large brush over the printed items to protect them. When the varnish is dry, you can cut away the lozenge areas you need and apply as for usual decals.
You will get rather translucent decals so the underlying color is important, like on W&W decals for example. The undercoat color will slightly alter the lozenge colors. You can make a pre-shading of the ribs on the wings, which I didn't do on this model but will probably try on coming ones.
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I have glued all the semi-buried U-shaped rings on which the wires will be attached. I also added the small lever and bar that control the opening of the radiator grid. At the center, the MiniWorld Spandau barrels have been implanted into the Roden plastic breeches which fit the fuselage openings better.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta185.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1578&u=11494792)
The weathered fuselage, with its small rhodoid windscreen, the machine-guns and the exhaust stack. To get this "rusted metal" effect on it, I first sprayed a coat of a solid aluminum paint (eg Tamiya TS30), then I brush-painted the whole stack with red-brown enamel (Humbrol 70), and scratched the paint with a file in some areas of the part, to have the metal paint show-through:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta186.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1579&u=11494792)
The dirtiest areas of the upper wing (ie around the radiator and aileron horns) have been treated with oils, as well as the wheels and wheel axle fairing. I will increase the shading of the ribs later with more oil, after a coat of matt varnish:
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta187.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1580&u=11494792)
Besides this, I've added a paved area on the stand. The pavement has been painted in various shades at random, then it has received an oil wash and pigments. The remaining area will be filled up with plaster to simulate the soil. Considering the answers I got about possible paved airfields, I changed the location of the aircraft and accessories: the plane will sit on the grass area representing the airfield, and the mechanic will be working on the other engine, on the paved area which is supposed to lead to hangers and field buildings.
(http://i55.servimg.com/u/f55/11/49/47/92/monta188.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1581&u=11494792)
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Truly extraordinary work, Vincent! As fine as any larger scale Albatros I've seen. Looking forward to seeing her completed.
Cheers,
Bud
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Great work Vincent!
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Truly extraordinary work, Vincent! As fine as any larger scale Albatros I've seen. Looking forward to seeing her completed.
Cheers,
Bud
As usual I have to agree with my amigo! Beautiful work in any scale but especially in the Tiny scale!
RAGIII
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I really love the weathering, and this for a scale 1/72, super, very well crafted.
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Thanks. I have a rather long experience of 1/72 WWII warbird models, but I have to admit the work is actually more difficult on WWI aircraft at this scale, as they're definitely smaller. I realize that starting with an Alby was a good idea however, as it is of a quite "reasonable" size compared to a Nieuport or Fokker...
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An exellent work Vincent.
Martin
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Fantastic work Vincent, your weathering is stunning, as is the rest of your build!
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This just gets better and better. As others have said your skill sets in this scale are truly amazing. I wish I had them.
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Thanks to you all.
Except a handful of trials with 1/48, 1/32 aircraft (and 1/24 car models), I've always built 1/72 models, so I'm quite used to building small stuff. But enough talking, I have a batch of wires to make...
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Just wonderful Vincent. I would love to see what you could do with
a 1/32 version. In the meantime, thank you for sharing your talents.
Looking forward to your next updates. :D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Hello Vincent:
You are doing outstanding work here. I especially like the scheme you have chosen and the work you are doing is amazing in this small scale. I am looking forward to seeing you finish her up.
Best
Mark
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Excellent job Vincent.
I really like the work on the wing I think it's very realistic.
The fuselage is wonderful, and I have not got words for tires.
Very good start to vignette.
I look forward to develop a whole.
Best Regards
Hristo
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Thanks,
I would love to see what you could do with a 1/32 version
Not much more I'm afraid, and it wouldn't look as nice as the gorgeous 1/32 models you can see here...
I could probably make more detailed turnbuckles with rings at each end, that's all.
Moreover, I already have a collection of WWII 1/72 warbirds so I want all kits to be at a consistent scale.
About the wings, next time I'll have to make a bird with lozenges, I'll probably try to give them a more light and dullish look so the post-shading gets more visible.
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A part of the wires is attached to the upper wing prior to its installation. In the center, the aileron cables that will come into the fuselage (typical to D-V version only. But everyone here knows about this...):
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag10.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1585&u=11494792)
Lower wings glued in place with the wires that go to the engine and already help give rigidity to the lower wings.
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag11.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1586&u=11494792)
Fitting the upper wing:
First, the jigs, which have been drawn on the scale plan, are attached to the lower wings with rubber-band:
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag12.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1587&u=11494792)
After small adjustments, the upper wing goes in place.
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag13.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1588&u=11494792)
An important step: the cabanes are glued, everything is aligned:
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag14.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1589&u=11494792)
Then I removed the left jig to fix the V-mast. As I suspected, those tiny masts may not be strong enough to keep the upper wing in place while making the "knitting" on the wires. So I started the rigging right after, so the wires help maintain both wings together. More pics when the rigging is done.
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I know it has been said already but if you hadn't posted the scale I would think this was a WNW 1/32nd Albatros! So very WELL DONE!
RAGIII
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Looks awesome Vincent!
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Extraordinary, Vincent - very nice indeed!
I do think those turnbuckles and loops are way too big though, and getting them to scale would be next to impossible....I think drilling and threading would give a more scale look, with the turnbuckles just painted on the wires.....but that's just my preferance and opinion. Still outstanding work though!
Ian
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Thanks for your comments.
Yes I have entirely rebuilt the rigging with thinner threads (0.1mm). The turnbuckles are smaller but still far too big, especially diameter-wise. I first thought about drilling holes and just adding smaller tubes on the wires' ends to make the turnbuckles, and that would be closer to scale. But I wanted to have end loops as this is typical to those birds compared to later biplanes. Anyway I can't revert to holes now that the upper wing and masts are in place, since I've glued all the U shaped hooks in the wings with a very strong industrial CA...
The good side is you can remove any wire by simply cutting the loops at each end, and I'm thinking about using tubes of a smaller diameter. But as the wires have a 0.1mm diameter, the tubes cannot have a diameter below 0.4mm.
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A wounderful work Vincent.
Martin
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Thanks.
PS: I found out I could use 0.3mm tubes with 0.1 wires. Now this is much closer to scale since in actual size, it would make 7.2mm wires, and the turnbuckles would be ca 2cm in diameter. Being 3mm in length, that makes 21cm which is not totally out of size. Now I have to go again with all the rigging. It's just a matter of time, it should take one or 2 evenings.
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So this is the final version of the rigging:
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag23.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1612&u=11494792)
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/montag24.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1613&u=11494792)
On the wings, the oil post-shading is more visible than I hoped. This is good news since the lozenge finish has a tendency to "flatten" the wings look.
As everybody talks about Aviattic decals, I ordered a sheet and noticed that my own searches on lozenges led me to something very close. Just for comparison, here's a sample of a 1/72 Aviattic sheet that matches the wing pattern on an Albatros
(http://i39.servimg.com/u/f39/11/49/47/92/aviatt10.jpg) (http://www.servimg.com/image_preview.php?i=1614&u=11494792)
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That's looking very nice indeed Vincent.
I still think the turnbuckles are too big - they are really no thicker than the wires...
http://thevintageaviator.co.nz/projects/albatros-dva/albatros-dva-walkaround#
My personal view is that in 1:72 they just need to be painted on - you really can't see them unless you're very close. Other than that she's about as perfect as it gets in this scale! I'll take lessons from you on the shading and weathering any time!
Ian
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Beautiful results! As always the Modeler is probably his own worst reviewer ;D I am Still VERY Impressed with your 1/72nd scale work!
RAGIII
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Thanks. Now I'm close to completion at last.
Ian, yes I noticed the turnbuckles are almost the same diameter as the wires.
If you just paint them, you can't make end loops since loops can only be made with micro-tubes, which have to be slightly larger than wires themselves since they have to go through twice.
I'm more concerned with the width of the rib tapes. I took them from a Pegasus 1/72 decal sheet but I only realized they were too thick when the job was done so it was too late to start over.
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Wonderful job, Vincent. Even more impressive in the teeny scale.
Well done!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Thanks. I've started painting the mechanic that will go next to the plane. When it's done, I'll just have to glue each element in place on the vignette. Final pics will come in a few days.
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Your weathering has turned out rather well . Over all very impressive build :)
Terri
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The finish you have achieved here is extraordinary, Sir.
Congratulations.
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I have not looked in recently and am totally blown away by the level of detail; and the outstanding finish on this model. I agree with IanB about the wire attachment points but otherwise I simply cannot find anything to be critical about. Besides I could not achieve this level of detail if I had tried! Very many congratulations and I am looking forward to seeing this completed.
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Thank you all.
I'm about to glue the mechanic onto the pavement next to the plane, and will make pics of the completed scene in the coming days.
As a conclusion to my first WWI build in 1/72, I would say that the small size of the model has caused a few details to be a little too big: the s/n on the fin (if I had printed it at a smaller size, I would've lost details on the digits); the cockpit instruments (it's not my fault this time LOL, since the gauge decals come from a FCM sheet...); the rib tape width (this time too, I could blame Pegasus but if I had noticed that earlier, I could've made custom thinner rib tapes from painted decal stripes); the size of the turnbuckles (see above).
On the other hand, I'm rather happy with the weathering, and I learned a lot while building this old little bird: to tell the truth, a few months ago, I didn't even think I could make valve springs, wire end loops or home made lozenges on such a small model...And moreover, I now love those colorful machines.
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It's done! I've posted the final pix in the completed models area.