Due to an unexpected work schedule change and some self created difficulties with the kit, it has been a while since I posted an update. I have almost completed the interior work but have changed my mind as to which of McCuddens aircraft I am going to model. I had a couple of modeling sessions where nothing seemed to go right. This led to an attempt to graft the bulged portion of the resin upper cockpit with the plastic Roden original. All went well with one side then disaster struck on the second. So I began to look at alternatives. I have been studying 4891, using every photo I have and a magnifying glass, and am about 75% convinced that the aircraft did not have bulged sides. I like controversy so have decided to model 4891 with no bulges unless someone can convince me otherwise.
I also have it in mind to do a Diorama with the McCudden figure someday and as he is wearing his Hun Hat 4891 is more appropriate.
The photo below shows my progress. I am sure all will notice how untidy the edges of the cockpit look as well as the seem where the decking meets the fuselage sides. This area will be scraped and cleaned off to allow glue to set up properly. The upper fuselage/cockpit coaming covers all of the bad spots... or so I think! I also need to paint the edging aluminum on the inside edge.
se5a 039_crop by
ragfokker, on Flickr
