I've finally "unstalled" this little project and have some real progress to add to the log.I completed the Spandaus using the kit breeches and barrels with the PE rolled cooling jackets. They were perfect until, after installation, I managed to flatten both jackets somewhat and then damaged them further trying to bend them back into shape. The end result was to tear them off, repair the damage to the cowling, and using the breech blocks with Master barrels and jackets start over again. I'm much happier with the new ones.
Here they are before painting and after. I used Alclad Gunmetal with a bit of Airframe Aluminum added.
A filler pipe and cap for the oil was also added (missing on this Kit) and then the mid wing was mounted.
Once that was in place the gun blast shields were installed on the upper decking.
Once the guns were remounted the upper wing was installed on the inter plane struts only. Next I strapped the beast into the Magic Third Hand and was able to install the cabanes and the aileron control cables. The cabanes fit beautifully which says volumes for this Roden Kit!
The right side cables have not been installed yet in this photo.
Last I completed the assembly of the landing gear struts to the axle wing using a jig from my first build of this kit almost 10 years ago ....... never throw anything away! The popsicle stick allows for getting the assembly level.
So, almost complete. Next steps are the cabane rigging wires and flight control cables on the tail and ailerons, then on to the landing gear, cowling and engine, and rudder installation. All these components are more or less complete so this should wrap up pretty quickly!
Cheers,
Lance
