Airfix 1:72 Hannover CL.IIIa

[lone modeller]

That is a very neat and original idea for trying to get the correct alignment for struts. This is a real problem with scratch builds and conversions when wings have been modified or made from scratch. Thanks for telling us of this method - I will be interested to see how it works out - in theory it should be a winner.

[IanB]

 The idea for the wing alignment would have worked a lot better if I'd paid attention - there is no dihedral on the upper wing so the struts were too long! I finally got the top wing on and the struts fitted using my jig, and the rigging is almost complete. The cabane struts were also slightly off and needed a little tweaking - they still don't line up exactly where I'd like them at the upper rear but they'll have to stay where they are now!
 Because of the lozenge decals I decided to try a differant method to that I usually use, and only drilled part-way through the lower wing. This appears to have worked ok - I was worried that the line might not have enough grip and would pull out when tightened, but that only happened on one piece, so I think I got away with it.



A little heat treatment will be needed on one or two lines - I managed to knock the right side drag line and pulled it out of the nose after I'd tensioned it, so it isn't as tight as it should be......

Ian

[Des]

This one is looking really good Ian, the top wing appears to have fitted well except as you said the struts were too long, I'm glad you overcame any issues and managed to do the rigging which looks excellent.

Des.

[Alexis]

Hey Ian , I have seen that method before used and is an excellent idea and way of going about it . Does make it a lot easier .
You can set the chamber by using a strip of masking tape run on the underside . Pinch it to the desired chamber hold with the tape .

I'm really impressed on how this is shaping up Ian , You are doing a fantastic job over coming a few obstacles 




Terri

[mgunns]

Hello Ian:

As mentioned, you overcame an obstacle and persevered and have an outstanding build going here.  Lesser folk would have given up!  It is looking like an airplane now with the upper wing attached.  Looking forward to the final pics.

Best

mark

[lone modeller]

To think that this is the old Airfix kit! A tremendous job being done here - impressive all around.

[RAGIII]

Ian, Looking really terrific! I am impressed with your work , especially in 1/72nd scale!
RAGIII

[Nigel Jackson]

Hello Ian. This is looking so good and I'm finding the build fascinating. I'm reconciled to never building the Airfix Hannover but it's great to see what can be achieved in skilled hands.

Best wishes
Nigel

[IanB]

Here's a little update:
 Heat treatment done on 3 lines but they're still not as taught as I would like. Can't seem to get them any tighter though so they'll have to stay that way. Undercarriage is on and awaiting rigging, which will be done with 4 thou stainless wire, along with the tail, ailerons, and rear cabane lines to the fuselage (just between the cockpits). I've touched up the holes where the rigging exits the wings and I don't think I'll get it any better - I may need to find an alternative in future...





 I've also made a start on the engine coolant plumbing which should be fitted later this week....

Thanks for looking in!

Ian

[IanB]

All flight control surfaces are now fitted, along with the aileron and elevator actuators (which took a while and nearly drove me cross-eyed), and the wing rigging line spacers, which don't fit exactly, but are very close. The gaps between the spacers and wires can only been seen from one or two specific angles so I'll leave them as is.  I have still to add 2 of the 4 aileron cables, and the rudder cables. Now working on the Mini World Parabellum, and have finished building the mounts for it. The next pics, hopefully Tuesday, should be in the Ready for Inspection section......

Ian

[RAGIII]

Ian,
Looks terrific! Your build has been great to follow!
RAGIII

[TobyCoulson]

Astonishing work Ian.

[radio]

An extreme fine build.
Martin

[Culi]

I like your build very much. Will use it for reference when same model will come on my bench.

Aleksandar - Culi

[lone modeller]

An excellent effort and certainly a tutorial for anyone interested in making a first class model from an old set of mouldings.