Roden 1/32 SPAD XIII - detail added

[kensar]

Yes, this project is still alive!

I've been rigging and it's quite a tedious job, so I've been taking my time.  Due to how the rigging attaches to the model, I used monofilament and brass tubes for most of the turnbuckles.

I had trouble with the struts separating from the wing surfaces.  I used epoxy to attach, but that alone is not very robust.  I would suggest using styrene glue if just joining the kit pieces.  If using PE fittings between the strut and wing, like I have, I would recommend pinning the struts with wire, even if you have to drill through the wing and patch it later.  Otherwise the wing attachment is very fragile.

Here's a few in-progress shots







Not much more to go now.

[Bughunter]

Already epic build!

The blue of the fittings on the struts looks a bit bright for this very special "french field blue", but this is may be due to the pictures.
Have not found this blue yet. I do not want to mix it, as this is needed during the builds (e.g. the CSM Caudron in future) again and again.

Cheers,
Frank

[DaveB]

Your Spad is looking georgous - going to be a stunner when finished

Regards

Dave

[kensar]

Hi Frank and Dave.
The blue is bright, but not quite as bright as it shows in the pictures.  It really shows up because it contrasts with the overall yellow based color.  I'll tone it down with some weathering after I finish the rigging.  The blue is a Tamiya spray lacquer color.  I don't remember the exact color at the moment.

[RichieW]

Wow, that looks seriously impressive Ken, so utterly realistic. I'm looking forward to seeing the rigging completed. I'm sure you are too, there does seem to be a lot of it!

Richie

[RAGIII]

Very Impressive Ken! Your rigging will look superb when all is done!Very Inspiring Model! I Hope we see More of this kit being built to high standards like yours soon!!
RAGIII

[macsporran]

This is looking really nice. Probably best rigging on a SPAD I've seen. (and there's a lot pf good ones out there!)
Sandy

[William Adair]

That last shot looks like a full sized museum piece.   

[Early Bird Fan]

glad you managed to get the struts to behave, it's looking epic

[Manni]

Wonderful work. you have created an outstanding model. I love the blue color of the anchor points.
Bye,
Manni

[kensar]

Thank you, everyone for following along.  Your comments are encouraging and motivating.
I have finished the wing rigging and must say it looks very good.  There's a lot of it for a single seat fighter.  So far, the struts have accepted the rigging without riot or protest.  We'll see if everything stays in place all the way to the end.  There will be a lot of handling while adding the remaining details.
In the meantime, I have a week long family trip, so I will be taking a short break from this project.

[PrzemoL]

Very fine all around. Will be worth watching your thread when I finally get to my Spad

[Borsos]

Thumbs up! This one looks amazing!
Andreas

[kensar]

Thanks, everyone for stopping by and commenting.
I'm back on this and should be finished later today, so the next posting will be in the completed section.  I just have the aileron bellcranks and pushrods left to do.

Here's a few details I have made and added:

pilot's step


lifting handles


wheels!


horizontal stabilizer rods and brackets


I went with the kit prop


So, the next post will be in the completed section in the next couple of days.  Thanks to all that left comments and followed along.  I hope you picked up some useful tips.

[lcarroll]

    Absolutely spectacular, your detail work and finish are exceptional. Beautifully done, and I'm looking forward to seeing the final photos in the Completed section.
Cheers,
Lance