I am nearing completion on the Roden Jasta 4 DR1. I have finished weathering the undersides and fuselage and just need to add a bit to the upper surfaces. Next up will be rigging and then adding the small breakable parts like the step and hand holds. I think it is appropriate while witing on the Meng "Replacement" to note a few comparisons.
Roden:
After 15 years the Roden kit is still pretty nicely done. A few errors of Omission are evident but honestly when the kit was designed Most had No Idaea!
Things I see needing correction:
1. Sand off "Most of the triangular panels on the wing upper surfaces. Honestly some trace "Might" be visible on the original
2. Do not use the fuel pump on the right fuselage side. This was a tube and valve that was connected to the control stick to more or less "Blip" the engine.( WNW /Meng are the first to get this right) Not generally known when Roden issued their kit.
3. Add some Nail holes to the wing ribs on the upper surface. Looks better even if exaggerated.
4, Correct the gear location on the leading edge.
5. Change the location of the spar inspection panel on the upper wing
6. The tires are too small in diameter( This was only recently discovered). They would be fine if building an F1.
7. The Cowl needs replacing or correction.
8. Fill in the depression on the horizontal tail surfaces( Although honestly there is a depression near the leading edge)
9. Add whatever cockpit details like the triangular panel are needed per your preferences
10.Add the fabric panel above the rear bulkhead.
11. No access hatch on the underside. Use Aviattic PE or Make your own.
12. No stitching on rear fuselage. Use Part, Eduard, or Archer stitching to add.
One thing Roden did get right is the recessed ribs on the undersides of the wing. Ray Rimell suggested adding a thinly stretched sprue piece to enhance the detail. Also the kit is Sturdy, No worries about breaking struts
Meng:
Basically 15 years of improved Mold technology and Information. Superior in Most respects it does have drawbacks.
1. The Plastic is DIFFERENT! Softer yes, but also more brittle
2. Tolerances are tight! Perhaps more so than WNW.
3. Because of #2 be SURE you do not Try to Force anything into place! Especially wing Ties and Cabanes!
4.Instrument decals are not very good
5. One Must either have knowledge of their intended subject or do research as the instructions really fall short of giving info on what parts should be used.
So that being said this is where I am on the Roden Jasta 4 build. Weathering of the undersides and Fuselage are done. Just need to pastel the upper surfaces and rig. Then the inevitable touch up:
RAGIII
