So, getting back to my plan to build all of Udet's machines in 1/48, having done the Eduard Albatrossen and become tired of replacing engines, reworking landing gear, thinning struts, and cursing misaligned parts, I've decided to try to knock a few off with more (I hope!) straightforward builds. I'm using two Eduard dual combos to build Udet's three known triplanes: 586/17, Kirschstein's ex mount with striped wing and rear fuselage; 593/17, factory with late style crosses, tail chevron, and a small LO! chalked rear of cockpit (seems the larger outline was also chalked in); and 149/17, factory with late crosses and fuselage and tail chevrons (perhaps some doubt about this serial number?). 586/17 is most well documented; the others have fuzzy photos and speculative profiles available online. I won't post photos since I don't know who owns what, but images are easily googleable. I did 586/17 in the 90s with the DML kit, but used Testor's Dullcote in a rattle can to seal and it's yellowed badly. Besides, I didn't end the striping in a vertical line at the cockpit. I may cannibalize some parts, but the Eduard kits are pretty comprehensive. I have the old Americal sheets for the markings although the black decals have weird bubbling and aren't useable.
It seems the only issues with the Eduard Dr.Is are the misplaced wing inspection panel and landing gear struts that are a tad too long. Also some misguided cockpit details placement, but nothing major. Has anyone had any other issues with the kit?
Drew
Drew
