[Fight2FlyPhoto]

For the last three months I've been working on a Model Airways 1:16 scale Sopwith Camel kit. It is one of their structural display models pushing 1,000 parts. So far I have the fuselage about 85% done... all I need to do is install the amunition chute, front and rear gun mounts, and the guns.

I purchased their 8 monthly kit deal, which helps force me to take my time on the airplane as I have a tendancy to work through things really fast. The first kit was just a bunch of basswood to construct the main frame. The second kit included a lot of metal pieces for the cockpit including the fuel tanks, oil tank, firewall, air intake/carb/magnitos, control stick, rudder bar, throttle/micture, instrument panel, guns, and seat. Included is also copper wire for fuel tubing and plumbing for the different instrument guages.

I am not quite sure what the third kit will include... I'm guessing the engine and/or tail surfaces. The engine alone has nearly 100 individual metal pieces and the propeller requires laminating, sanding/shaping, and staining, just like a real wooden propeller.

One thing that is really cool about this series of aircrafts offered by Model Airways is the fact you actually rig the controls. When its done you will be able to move the control stick, which will then move the ailerons and elevator. The rudder will also be the same, having connections to the rudder bar.

The aircraft originally comes with gray string to simulate cables, but I've opted for .012" steel cable for authenticity and scale look.

Here are some pictures of my progress thus far.... bear with me, this is my first model of this type! I'm trying to get some experience under my belt so I can purchase my dream model, their Curtiss Jenny, next year!





Here is the instrument panel and interior. You can see the air intakes (copper tubes sticking out of the carburetor in the center), rudder bar, and other fuel tubing.


Side view of front fuselage

Side view showing main fuel tank (large one on the right), auxiliary fuel tank, stick and other interior parts.


close up of main fuel tank and associated plumbing.


View between the instrument panel and oil tank. The front gun mount and amunition container/chute will go in this space.



Another view of the cockpit, showing the control stick in the aft position.


Underside view of the front cockpit/fuselage section showing rudder bar



Enjoy!

[edit FINALLY got the pics to work!!]