Graf Zeppelin, 1/200, long time project

[nönöbär]

This week again will include a hull part.

Step 42/140  Strengthening the hull

With the larger keel section installed, the hull structure is significantly strengthened, adding overall rigidity and stability to the entire hull.

This step is very easy to assemble, as access to the screws is not obstructed by other hull components.

Step 42 parts:


Step 42 completed:

[scooter]

You'd think the keel would be the earliest parts they send.

[nönöbär]

@scooter The hull is build bow to stern so no classic "keel first". With the progrss speed, it will take until July/August until the hull itself is completed.

And therefore, the next hull part.

Step 43/140  Starboard side hull extension

This step continues assembly of the starboard-side hull. The screws can be fastened more easily at this stage, as the opposite hull side is not yet in place. The openings will later used for the boats.

Step 43 parts:


Step 43 completed:

[PR19_Kit]

Is the whole thing screwed together, no glue at all?

[nönöbär]

Is the whole thing screwed together, no glue at all?

The hull is screwed together as the hull parts are all die cast parts. Some of the plastic parts are srewed as well, but some - especially the smaller ones - are glued.

[PR19_Kit]

The hull is screwed together as the hull parts are all die cast parts. Some of the plastic parts are srewed as well, but some - especially the smaller ones - are glued.

Ah, OK, thanks for that.

[NARSES2]

Is the whole thing screwed together, no glue at all?

The hull is screwed together as the hull parts are all die cast parts.

She'll weigh a bit then ?

[nönöbär]

She'll weigh a bit then ?

Full model should be around 8kg, I think ist now about 3kg so far.

[NARSES2]

She'll weigh a bit then ?

Full model should be around 8kg, I think ist now about 3kg so far.

So just over 17.5lbs, just over a stone ! She'll need a hefty shelf.

[nönöbär]

@NARSES2 Yes, you need a solid base for the model when it is done.

But now, something completly different and a bit surprising.

Step 44/140  Upgrades and Surprises: New Aircraft, Structural Mount, and AA Gun Overhaul

After focusing extensively on hull assembly over the past weeks, this stage brings some welcome variety. It consists of three distinct components.

First, another Junkers Ju 87 Stuka is added, this time the sixth aircraft in the build.

Second, a mounting bracket is installed, which will later serve as the key structural link between the hull and the flight deck.

The biggest surprise, however, is a complete replacement of the anti-aircraft gun originally installed in step 2. The new version features a significantly more powerful LED to enhance the firing effect. Since the original gun had been permanently glued in place, the upgrade required removing and replacing not only the gun itself but also sections of the deck, including wooden elements and photo-etched parts.

This step may deviate from the routine, but it adds both technical refinement and visual impact to the overall model.

Step 44 parts:


Step 44 completed - mounting bracket


Step 44 completed - new AA gun


Step 44 completed - the air wing

[NARSES2]

If I typed what first came to mind I'd have to ban myself.

All I will say is that I'm totally "gobsmacked" 

Well done sir   

[nönöbär]

As I will be away for vacation ant the end of the month, two construction steps this week. However, as its is only hull parts again, this should have been a quick build

Step 45/140 Port Side Hull Extension – A Stubborn Fit

Work on the hull extension now continues along the port side, where another lower hull section is installed. This particular piece proved quite challenging, as it initially refused to align properly with the surrounding structure. After some careful adjustment and persistence, however, it was finally coaxed into place.

Step 45 parts:


Step 45 completed




Step 46/140  Work continues on the port side.

Luckiely, this part was attached much easier. The hull now reached a weight of 3,5 kg. Most of the metal parts are now added, but I guess in the end  the complete hull will be at least 4kg at all.

Step 46 parts:


Step 46 completed

[Old Wombat]

Moving right along, there! 

[NARSES2]

Moving right along, there! 

It is indeed 

[nönöbär]

Before I leave for vacation, two more parts to build as I won't have time for it the next three weeks. Again, two more hull parts.

Step 47/140 Installing the Additional Keel

In this step, hull construction continues with the installation of an additional keel section. The part fits easily into place and significantly improves the overall structural strength of the hull.

Step 47 parts:


Step 47 completed




Step 48/140  Port Side Expansion: Installing the Tender Section

In this step, the port side of the hull is extended with an additional section that will later accommodate several tender boats. An easy installation for this one.

Step 48 parts:


Step 48 completed