Scale Aviation Modeller International — November 2017

RIGGED FOR ACTION

One of the most useful features of

this kit must be the inclusion of the

photo-etch rigging anchor points

that fit at the ends of the inter-

plane struts. Having something

of a dread of rigging, it occurred

to me that with some careful

alignment, it would be possible to

assemble the rigging points onto

the struts and then fit them to the

lower wing, all before needing to

fix the upper wing. By using the

rather benign Uschi van der Rosten

elastic rigging thread, it should be

possible to complete approximately

80% of the rigging without the

encumbrance of the upper wing.

I fixed the fuselage and lower

wing assembly into my JH Models

jig to minimise the amount of

handling needed. I then attached

the upper wing temporarily, gluing

a pair of outer struts on each side

to the lower wing only. I could

then remove the upper wing and

use these to guide the gluing

angle for the inner struts. Rigging

can then be done with rather

good access, using relatively long

runs of thread passed through

the mounting points, with only

occasional anchoring with super

glue. For extra security, and to

minimise strain on the joints, I

made some temporary braces to

support the tops of the struts.

With the bulk of the inter-

plane and control-wire rigging

done, the upper wing can be

fitted permanently, the last few

threads attached, and the aileron

links and control runs installed.

In parallel with the main

construction, the bomb racks

and rear Lewis gun mount can be

built while other bits are setting.

The bomb racks are entirely

straightforward, and the Lewis

gun Scarff ring only needs the

addition of some elastic thread

for the counter balance bungees.

A few final details, like the

wheels, radiator header tank, and

tailskid, and the whole thing is

The engine really looks the

business when it’s installed.

The Scarff ring mount

is straightforward, just

needing the bungee

cords made from elastic

thread.

The frustrating effect of using masking tape –

even Halfords primer pulled off the PE surface.

The engine and radiators

installed, awaiting the nose

cowl panel.

A work in progress. The nose section of the

cowling needs careful bending and gluing

38 • NOVEMBER 2017 • SCALE AVIATION MODELLER INTERNATIONAL

F.K.8 (MID PRODUCTION)

034-41-FEAT-FK8-1117.indd 38 16/10/2017 15:37