Author Topic: U-552 - doing it my way. (Read 266330 times)

Siara · « **on:** 06 Jul , 2008, 12:04 »

Hi all.
Im so happy with my soldering today i thought i share it with You all.

More pics, and full story here:
http://u-552.blogspot.com/

This is the part of the project where it can be either done or destroyed. Im glad im past it, to be honest it wasnt that bad with the right tools.

Hope You guys like her, and be kind please.

Siara

wildspear · « **Reply #1 on:** 06 Jul , 2008, 19:32 »

I think I can speak for many of us. No need to be kind when the work being shown is great. Awsome job and I hope you can share more pics with us and maybe a little how too on the soldering.

dougie47 · « **Reply #2 on:** 07 Jul , 2008, 11:06 »

Hi Siara,

Thanks for sharing your model with us. You are making a brilliant job of your U 552 - I'm very impressed. Nice job of the railings too, as soldering can be tricky. Feel free to post more photos.

Keep up the good work!

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #3 on:** 07 Jul , 2008, 11:44 »

Thanks for the warm welcome guys, much preciated!
Wintergarten was on the back of my mind from the day one of the project. Ever since i visited Winks U-557 page, and in the gallery there one guy made custom railings. I knew i had to make my own, but my experiencess with soldering iron were less than impressive.
I knew it is the hard part, and even Wink struggled with them. Knowing his skills, the job was even greater.
Than i thought theres no miracles on this world, and some people done em so why not me.
The key is to get the right gear for the job in hand.
I went and bought the Dremell blowtorch, along with Koki paste- now that stuff is brilliant. If You thinking about soldering anything for Your models- this is the daddy.
Its hard to get that paste in UK, and i had mine shipped from Poland, it is made in Japan though.
With paste, and dremell iron nothing is impossible, and im the true convert.

Heres what it looks like in detail, after initial sanding with high grit paper.

The dremell tool if You not used one yet, gives the opportunity for soldering either with fine tip, or torch- both are perfect for modeling.
Meanwhile im puting finishing touches to the main body of the CT, before ill line up the wintergarten, add some more detail to it / like brackets for winch, and flagpole and some brackets for line /
I have to make 4 arresting hooks on the port side of the top of CT, and 3 on the starboardside.
Stay tuned.

Siara

wildspear · « **Reply #4 on:** 07 Jul , 2008, 14:03 »

Looking real good. Up close shows us how good of a job you did. Thanks for the pic and make sure you keep us up to date on your progress.

Siara · « **Reply #5 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 01:47 »

The arresting hooks.
I made the test hook on the scrap bit of plastic.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #6 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 03:13 »

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #7 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 13:55 »

Couple of wires made from 0,1mm wire.

Holes for wintergarten drilled.

Now im planing to paint the insides of the CT, before i glue top part to the bottom in order to connect the railings.

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #8 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 15:30 »

Hi Siara,

Nice one. You have the box underneath the voicetube just like in the photos of U 570 at -

http://www.uboatarchive.net/U-570Photographs.htm

Did you use these photos as a reference guide?

I also see the latch that holds open the tower hatch. A very nice addition!

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #9 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 15:42 »

Thanks Dougie!
I used some of the pictures there, but i just find one which is interesting. Thanks for the heads up.

Siara · « **Reply #10 on:** 08 Jul , 2008, 17:29 »

Its me again. Looking at the pictures at the site You recommended to me Dougie, i noticed this:

Do You know of any other photos, perhaps from the different angle, of the apparatus?

Thanks in advance.

dougie47 · « **Reply #11 on:** 09 Jul , 2008, 12:15 »

Hi Siara,

I'm not sure what that apparatus is. I have seen it in one other VII photo. The image resolution is terrible - only just enough to tell that the same apparatus was there and no more. Furthermore, I don't know which boat it is or even when it was taken.

The Paterson book on U 564 is excellent for tower details. Looking at the image of U 564 on page 109 this mystery apparatus isn't there. So U 564 didn't have it and U 570 did. U 564 and U 570 were build at the same yard as U 552 so it isn't clear whether U 552 would have had it. Maybe not?

If you look at photo 6 in the U 570 images, you will see a black cable running from the underside of the magnetic compass repeater. I presume this cable was in place on the underside of the repeater of all VIICs. I have seen it on U 552.

The black cable can be seen on the image of U 94 below -

Question is: where did it go to? We may have an answer in the bottom image of page 25 of the Vom Original zum Modell book on the VIIC. If you look at the top left you

Siara · « **Reply #12 on:** 10 Jul , 2008, 02:14 »

Thanks Dougie- great pictures.

I made the box best i could:

I rounded the top of airstacks to replicate early boat:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #13 on:** 10 Jul , 2008, 13:29 »

I fixed the box to the CT, and addedd some cables. Inside of the CT is ready for primer, and painting.

CDN...

Siara · « **Reply #14 on:** 10 Jul , 2008, 17:12 »

Inside of the CT primed before painting.
Tamiya Fine Gray for sides and floor, White for scopes:

Few areas to sort out- nothing big...

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #15 on:** 11 Jul , 2008, 13:50 »

First using the 80 grit sandpaper i scratched the woodgrain, and paint chiping:

...and painted the lower surfacess with revell black, thinned 1/8 with humbrol enamel thinner:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #16 on:** 12 Jul , 2008, 06:25 »

Kitchen salt applied in place of intended chiped paint:

First coat of WEM IJN Kure Gray. I used this paint instead of planned Schiffsbodenfarbe III, because it saved me mixing it with lighter colors to get it right to scale, and the Kure Gray still has desired green tinge anyway:

Second coat. Here you can see the scratches on timber showing nicely like wood grain:

I sprayed the scopes, and hatch lid aswell:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #17 on:** 12 Jul , 2008, 14:40 »

I applied 3 and 4 coat of paint, adding gradualy Helgrau 50, and Baltic Gray, and varnish.
Than the salt was removed:

Tomorrow ill wash the lot, and add some paint with brush.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #18 on:** 12 Jul , 2008, 22:28 »

WOW!!! SOOO impressive! The level of detail is amazing, and your skill to do it - fantabulous! Keep up the amazing work, and keep posting pix!

Also, I must apologize for not responding earlier, a display glitch wasn't showing me any posts in general Modeling, otherwise I would have been praising your work sooner!

Siara · « **Reply #19 on:** 13 Jul , 2008, 08:27 »

Thanks Rokket!
Im glad You like it.

Gloss acrylic varnish applied, followed by wash.

Once proper dry ill polish it, add some chips, rusty streaks, and paint discoloration, and seal the lot with satin combination of Tamiya X 21, and X 22 varnish.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #20 on:** 13 Jul , 2008, 18:09 »

I finished painting the CT, had the good, long look at it, and washed tthe lot off. It turned out too dark for my liking, and the WEM enamels proved hard work.
I will start anew with Tamiya acrylics.

Siara · « **Reply #21 on:** 15 Jul , 2008, 15:57 »

During the washing process i lost some delicate detail from peryscope stacks. So im making the new ones.
The only good thing is, the new ones will be ten times better than he old.

Work in progress:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #22 on:** 16 Jul , 2008, 14:44 »

Cont. work in progress:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #23 on:** 18 Jul , 2008, 10:58 »

I made the plate under the main body of the scope. Sheet styrene, drilled, with wider holes on the bottom. After the glue set round the wires i sanded the bottom smooth, and top to required length of the bolts on the sheet of sandpaper 1500 grit.

I received the delivery of the I.C.
It is the second cross they sent me- first dissapeared in post. Thanks to PZG they sent the replacement for free.

Hope noone will take it badly, as it will be used for display purpose. It will be located on the plank.

CDN...

wildspear · « **Reply #24 on:** 18 Jul , 2008, 12:28 »

Siara,

Your doing some great work. I'm blown away by the scratch work your doing.

Rokket · « **Reply #25 on:** 19 Jul , 2008, 02:57 »

Looking SOOOO good. And you're soo right about the replacement stuff - frustrating, but you will have an even sweeter loking boat becasue you've already built these before! IC looks great and is appropriate.

Siara · « **Reply #26 on:** 19 Jul , 2008, 04:17 »

Thanks so much guys! Your comments are much preciated.

Im almost there restoring the scope to the former / maybe better glory /:

Still some more detail to be added before i have go at painting the beast again.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #27 on:** 19 Jul , 2008, 06:47 »

Wow! Nice mid section detail, you are doing BEAUTIFUL work!

Siara · « **Reply #28 on:** 19 Jul , 2008, 07:53 »

Thanks again Rokket!

Got the top rail curved:

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #29 on:** 19 Jul , 2008, 18:52 »

Your soldering is beautiful! That whole piece is very schweeeet!

Siara · « **Reply #30 on:** 20 Jul , 2008, 01:40 »

Thanks Rokket! I was dreading the soldering process, untill i got my hands on the Dremell soldering iron. Now everything is easy, and enjoyable.

I added the hatch latch:

Now im working on the compass mount / more soldering

/ , pics soon.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #31 on:** 20 Jul , 2008, 07:08 »

The latch is key, and you've got much more detail than I did! Well done! My soldering was painful, the worst forme was no flux (paste). The ony; available is a powder you mix with water, which pops and jimps as hard scab-like bits. I am used to greasey pastes, mighjt look at this japanese koki stuff. I would liek to condense your info into "soldering hints and post on the AMP website as Reference. You've done very, very well.

Siara · « **Reply #32 on:** 20 Jul , 2008, 07:15 »

Thank You Rokket! My soldering is the fruit of all hard work You, and others have put in oven the years trying to solder the bits for the U-boat, and i just read the reflections, and took apropriate action. The Koki paste is THE BEST YOU CAN GET FOR SOLDERING TINY BITS FOR YOUR MODELS!
Heres anther proof that the paste works wonders:

The loops were bent with pointed tweezers, and soldered close.

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #33 on:** 20 Jul , 2008, 11:46 »

Hi Siara,

Great work as usual. I particularly like your mystery appartus and the wires under the compass repeaters. Great work also with the scratchbuilt attack periscope base. I see little details on your base that are just like on U 552. Nice job!

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #34 on:** 20 Jul , 2008, 12:22 »

Thanks Dougie!

I primed the lot with Tamiya fine white, and sprayed the thin base coat of mix of (20% XF-18)+(20% XF-24)+(10% X-22)+(50% X-20A Thinner)

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #35 on:** 21 Jul , 2008, 02:03 »

Second coat of the same mix:

Picture taken straight after painting...

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #36 on:** 21 Jul , 2008, 15:48 »

Coat number 3.
10% of XF-66 (light grey), and 10% more of X-22 gloss varnish added to the base mix:

Next filters.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #37 on:** 22 Jul , 2008, 01:56 »

beautiful!

Siara · « **Reply #38 on:** 22 Jul , 2008, 12:11 »

Quote from: rokket on 22 Jul , 2008, 01:56

beautiful!

Thank You Rokket!
Im proud You like it. Take some going to get acknowledgement from the man behind U-557. ;-)

I applied the Sim Ind. P240 panzer grey filter.
First coat over the whole inside of the tower, and second in crucial areas- seen under the arresting hooks.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #39 on:** 22 Jul , 2008, 15:38 »

Mig Brown Wash:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #40 on:** 23 Jul , 2008, 12:34 »

It looks like so at the moment:

Wash, filters, and delicate light grey fadeing.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #41 on:** 24 Jul , 2008, 12:39 »

Black wash where needed.
WEM matt black thinned with Mig wash thinner.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #42 on:** 25 Jul , 2008, 14:27 »

Paint chipping done using black, and brown enamels with addition of some graphite dust.
Rails, and footpegs treated to 5B Derwent pencil.

Have good weekend guys.

Siara · « **Reply #43 on:** 26 Jul , 2008, 12:19 »

Wintergarten completed.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #44 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 02:13 »

I love to see each new batch of pix...this is beautiful work!

Rokket · « **Reply #45 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 02:15 »

I think because this thread is so big and we now have a brand new TYPE VII category, for future ease of use/reference we'll have to move the topic to VII...does anyone see any negatives with this plan? (We can put a NEWS ITEM in for a week to redirect folks - this is an ADMIN problem, we created wth VII category a bit late...)

rabapla · « **Reply #46 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 04:12 »

awesome!

beautiful detail work, highlighted by excellent painting!

better than "museum quality"..................

Siara · « **Reply #47 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 04:30 »

Quote from: rokket on 27 Jul , 2008, 02:15

I think because this thread is so big and we now have a brand new TYPE VII category, for future ease of use/reference we'll have to move the topic to VII...does anyone see any negatives with this plan? (We can put a NEWS ITEM in for a week to redirect folks - this is an ADMIN problem, we created wth VII category a bit late...)

No problem here.

Rabapla- thank you!

Edit:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #48 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 07:36 »

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #49 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 09:09 »

Light conditions were good today, so i decided to show you all the whole thing.
Added some out of scale figures just for fun.

Siara · « **Reply #50 on:** 27 Jul , 2008, 14:52 »

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #51 on:** 28 Jul , 2008, 05:41 »

A whole (beautiful) boat!

Siara · « **Reply #52 on:** 30 Jul , 2008, 13:24 »

Quote from: rokket on 28 Jul , 2008, 05:41

A whole (beautiful) boat!

Thanks Rokket!

First impressions of the outside of the CT. Few areas in need of attention:

;-)

rabapla · « **Reply #53 on:** 31 Jul , 2008, 00:56 »

so You already have added figures.......................

Siara · « **Reply #54 on:** 31 Jul , 2008, 14:27 »

Quote from: rabapla on 31 Jul , 2008, 00:56

so You already have added figures.......................

Are You talking about the top picture?

I like it!

Siara · « **Reply #55 on:** 01 Aug , 2008, 17:29 »

Filled all the handrail fixing holes, and the big isolator hole with miliput. Discarded the lights, and i made the recesses deeper, and wider.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #56 on:** 02 Aug , 2008, 07:52 »

Isolator nest. 2,5mm copper tube, with 2mm styrene lining. Isolator itself will be made from turned wire, and glued after the painting.

Grilles back in place.

Line bracket. 2 different Eduard PE were used for strength, and neet look.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #57 on:** 03 Aug , 2008, 02:50 »

Tamiya white primer highlighted all the imperfections, which are being corrected.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #58 on:** 03 Aug , 2008, 08:24 »

Lights:

The glass is made from cigarette lighters, and are not fixed in yet. Ill paint them silver on the back, and fix `em after the CT gets some paint on.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #59 on:** 06 Aug , 2008, 14:11 »

Filler roughly sanded, and Mr. Surfacer applied. I sanded the lot again, starting from grit 800, through 1200, and finished on 1500.

Now i will mark the rivet lines.
I think i will replicate what revell done, mostly because i dont know any better. The rivets are hard to see on any of the photographs i have, so if someone could confirm, if the revell rivets are correct i will be gratefull.

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #60 on:** 07 Aug , 2008, 13:31 »

Hi Siara,

You're right about the rivets being hard to see in period photos. The real ones were much smaller than the Revell rivets. I'd guess that you'll need to add rivets that are the same size as the original Revell ones, just so they match the rest of your model?

Are you doing a weathered U 552? If so, I'd pay attention to the edges of the panel lines on the tower of 552. If you look at photos of the boat when it is weathered, you'll see rust forming along the edges of some of the panel lines. I've also seen rust forming in panel lines on the towers of other early B&V boats - U 556, U 566 and U 570 in particular.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #61 on:** 07 Aug , 2008, 13:37 »

Thanks Dougie!
I will be making my own rivet lines from scratch, as there isnt any rivets left on my boat anymore.

I didnt like what revell done with them, so i sanded the lot. I will be using the biggest wheel on the Trumpeter rivet maker.
I have lot of period pics of U-552, and i will carefully apply the rust streaks accordingly.
Thanks again.

dougie47 · « **Reply #62 on:** 07 Aug , 2008, 15:34 »

Hi Siara,

Best of luck with the rivets. Just while we're on the subject of the tower, there is an object beside the forward insulator conduit on U 552 and some other VIICs. See on U 564 below -

The insulator itself was painted white. Two wires went from the tip to either end of this object. Then wires went from the object up the forward jumping wire above.

The red arrow points to the object in this photo of U 552 -

The green arrow points to the metal part directly under the air intake grill. Note the curve on this part (curving downwards).

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #63 on:** 07 Aug , 2008, 15:41 »

Superb picture Dougie!
I knew about the ledge under the vents, and the object near the insulator, but this shot shows it beautifully. I never seen that shot, and another thing it explains to me is the location of the saddle tanks vents. Thanks a bunch Dougie!

Keep em coming please. You have got some lovely, unusual shots- i give You that.

Siara · « **Reply #64 on:** 07 Aug , 2008, 17:38 »

Rear isolators:

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #65 on:** 08 Aug , 2008, 11:36 »

Hi Siara,

Nice work on the rear insulators. Looks like you have everything in hand.

The photo I posted of U 552 shows two oval shapes on the saddle tanks. I believe these were manhole inspection covers (the air vents being located under the deck). If you look at P88 and P89 of Paterson's U 564 book you'll see one of the covers removed. On the P89 image, you can actually see a crewman inside the bunker (having somehow squeezed through the manhole inspection hole!).

Whatever the purpose of these oval shapes was, you can find their position on the saddle tanks on page 2/3 of Westwood's Anatomy of the VII book. This photo is U 69, not U 99 as the caption suggests. The early VIIBs had 3 per side but the VIICs had 5 per side. But note the orientation was different: 3 of the ovals were perpendicular to the deck, 2 were parallel.

Have a nice weekend.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #66 on:** 08 Aug , 2008, 14:57 »

Thanks for all your input Dougie!

The isolators are now ready.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #67 on:** 09 Aug , 2008, 08:40 »

Rivets:

...and the rest of the furnishings. Used combination of Eduard PE, and beer can.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #68 on:** 09 Aug , 2008, 17:31 »

I think it is ready for some paint now. Did i forget anything?

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #69 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 01:47 »

almost ready for sea!

dougie47 · « **Reply #70 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 07:06 »

Hi Siara,

Very nice job, as usual. Just got the rear light to add, which was different on the very earliest B&V boats to many other VIICs. If you need photos just shout.

Your boat is REALLY taking very good shape now.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #71 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 10:12 »

Quote from: dougie47 on 10 Aug , 2008, 07:06

Very nice job, as usual. Just got the rear light to add, which was different on the very earliest B&V boats to many other VIICs.
Dougie

Does it look like so?

If you have detail shot of it it will be highly appreciated as always. I cant express how gratefull i am for your help.
Siara

dougie47 · « **Reply #72 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 10:44 »

Hi Siara,

No worries, mate. Always like to help if I can.

Yeah, your shot of U 552 shows the rear light I am talking about. The only image that might be of help is of U 553, from directly behind -

I can't recall where I got the image and can't unfortunately improve on the quality.

Another image of U 552, very similar to the one you posted -

Note that the tower railings, the top of the L-shaped isolators and the area where the tower meets the deck are all black.

Oh, and I very much like your tiny rivets.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #73 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 10:53 »

Thanks Dougie. Ill start work on the light tonight.

wildspear · « **Reply #74 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 11:42 »

Hey Siara,

Where did you get the tool you used for the rivets?

Siara · « **Reply #75 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 11:53 »

Quote from: wildspear on 10 Aug , 2008, 11:42

Hey Siara,

Where did you get the tool you used for the rivets?

Here:
http://www.hannants.co.uk/search/?FULL=TU09910

Its out of stock now. Cheap, and effective. Recommended.

rabapla · « **Reply #76 on:** 10 Aug , 2008, 12:47 »

a guy from czechia used to produce similar stuff:

was called "rosie the riveter":

http://www.ipmsusa2.org/Reviews/Products/rosie-the-riveter/rosie-the-riveter.htm

Siara · « **Reply #77 on:** 11 Aug , 2008, 11:32 »

Quote from: rabapla on 10 Aug , 2008, 12:47

a guy from czechia used to produce similar stuff:

was called "rosie the riveter":

http://www.ipmsusa2.org/Reviews/Products/rosie-the-riveter/rosie-the-riveter.htm

Nice tools Rabapla. Thanks for the link.

I scratchbuilt new rear light. Im happy the way it turned out. Thanks Dougie!

CT is ready for first coat of paint.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #78 on:** 14 Aug , 2008, 13:40 »

I have put the conning tower aside, and im preparing the hull for painting. I came accross the model of Glenn Buckner, and one thing got me scratching my head. Look at the snap below:

Ive seen this wires on some models, and they are absent on others. Whats the catch? Did U-552 sport this feature?

dougie47 · « **Reply #79 on:** 15 Aug , 2008, 11:37 »

Hi Siara,

I can't give you a definite answer on this. I've seen this feature on a number of early VIICs but can't see this area of a B&V boat. I think that the early VIICs had this wire and they were discontinued at some stage in the war. So if I had to guess I'd say U 552 probably had it. Best to add them, I think.

The location of where the wire enters the hull is incorrect in Westwood's Anatomy book. All photos show it entering the hull not on the hull casing but farther up on the pressure hull. I've knocked up a guide below -

The purple arrow points to the spot.

Before I forget, have you added the 2 doublers (the strengthening strips) that were located behind the forward planes? The green arrow points to them. Neither of the doublers are on the Revell kit. I'm not sure these 2 doublers were quite as wide as the other doublers on the hull casing but it is hard to be sure. You can also see them on page 25 and page 27 of Steve Wiper's pictorial book.

Last point. On the starboard side (and ONLY on the starboard side) the doubler that is above the 4 UWT discs does not extend all the way to the bottom torpedo door. The red arrow points to where it ends on VIICs. The Revell kit is erroneous in this respect.

These features can be seen (just) in the photo below -

Just shout if you need more clarification on thse issues.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #80 on:** 15 Aug , 2008, 11:51 »

Superb info Dougie!
Ill get to work on it this weekend.

Siara · « **Reply #81 on:** 16 Aug , 2008, 18:24 »

All the welds were filled in.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #82 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 06:03 »

Sanding the hull:

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #83 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 07:29 »

Hi Siara,

Thanks for keeping us updated on progress. Hull looks good - holes identical to the U 552 pattern!

I see you have the breakwaters fitted (parts 115 and 116). Would I be right in saying that you aren't fitting the wind deflector around the top of the tower (part 121)?

Also, are you fitting the net cutter? U 552 did have one at the very beginning. When it was removed, there were four triangle shapes (2 on either side) remaining at the EDGE of the deck, where they had formerly been attached to the netcutter.

On one of the early patrols (perhaps patrol 2?) U 552 had the following combination -

Netcutter - no
Breakwaters - yes
Wind deflector at top of tower - no

There are photos at this time which show that a crewman has been a bit overenthusiastic with a pot of black paint (probably black rather than very dark grey). (NB. There was a painting regulation specifying that all horizontal surfaces were to be painted black). The crewman painted the following black -

- entire magnetic compass fairing (thing at the bottom of the front of the tower)
- top surface of the navigation lights
- deck railings
- tower railings
- inside walls of the tower
- ALL horizontal surfaces of the 88mm
- a narrow strip at the very bottom of the tower (where it meets the deck)
- upper surface of the spray defector (halfway up the outside of the tower)
- the railing fitted on top of the spray deflector

The two railings on the outside of the tower walls remained light grey at this particular time. And there were no snorting bulls at this time also.

Quite a few of the above were common practice (thought painting the entire magnetic compass fairing black wasn't). Perhaps the overenthusiastic crewman went back to his barracks and painted the tops of everything there black too?

Later, when the wind deflector was in place, he went one step further and painted the entire 88mm black.

Hope this helps come painting time.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #84 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 07:42 »

Thanks Dougie!
I can not express how gratefull i am for all the help You providing me during this build.

Im depicting the boat during the second patrol, and at the time of shelling Icelandic trawler Reykjaborg on 10 march 1941. http://www.uboat.net/allies/merchants/813.html

The flood holes are correct, because i used Your reference from PDF about U-boots flood patterns.

I will add the brackets for the top net cutter, when all the sanding is completed. Im not doing the skirt around the top of coning tower.
As to the rest of the stuff, You just put my mind at rest, because everything You wrote about above is exactly what im planning.

Thanks again- You are enormous help to me Dougie.

dougie47 · « **Reply #85 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 10:54 »

Hi Siara,

Very welcome. I'll continue to help until your model sails off to the N Atlantic.

I can see one possible problem. Have a look at U 552's patrol history here -

http://ubootwaffe.net/

(Type in 552)

Note that the 1st sailing was from 13/02 to 15/02. This may have been a sortie to Heligoland to pick up equipment. Or they may have been on their first patrol, which was aborted due to a technical fault, and stopped in on Heligoland to get it resolved.

They left Heligoland on 18/02, on their 2nd SAILING. Now, I'd consider that this was their first real active patrol. Others may consider this their 2nd patrol.

To be clear on this, let us just refer to SAILINGS rather than patrol numbers. So let's call the period 18/02 to 16/03 their 2nd sailing, 07/04 to 06/05 their 3rd sailing, etc..

You want to depict the boat on 10/03/41, during the 2nd sailing. U 552 would surely have had a netcutter in place on that date. It is reputed that the order to remove the netcutter was placed on 1st March 1941. But U 552 was on her 2nd sailing on 01/03, not returning to base until 16/03. The first opportunity for the removal of the netcutter was between 16/03 and 07/04. It is pretty likely that this was removed during this period in dock.

Wink and I have written a pretty lengthy article on his U 557 build. It will appear on the reference section shortly. We talk a bit about netcutter/breakwater/wind deflector removal and fitting dates in the article. Here is a preview of one section of the article -

Net cutters (parts 111 to 114)
Two net cutters were present at the bow of the very earliest VIICs - one on the deck and the other below the waterline on the stem. On 1st March 1941 the order remove the net cutters was issued. As a result, most of the net cutters were removed in March and April 1941.
However, the net cutters were not removed from all boats in this period. For example, U 96 still had net cutters when arriving back from patrol on the 22nd May 1941. Similarly, U 94 still had net cutters when returning from patrol on the 4th June 1941. U 94 had been in port throughout March, and again for 11 days in April. But there are a variety of reasons why the net cutters were not removed from U 94 during these two periods. One reason may have been the necessity to get the boat back to sea as quickly as possible.
Opinions on whether the lower net cutter was removed at the same time as the upper net cutter vary. Some hold that the lower one may have been left in place (too difficult to remove cheaply and easily), while others hold the view that both would have been removed at the same time.
Some or all of the earliest VIICs built at Germaniawerft (U 69 to U 72, and U 93 to U 98) had the lower net cutters when launched, but not the S-G. Certainly this was the case with U 70. Presumably the S-G device was fitted to U 70 and others when it became available. Fitting the S-G may have meant removing the lower net cutter.

Breakwaters (parts 115 & 116)
The earliest VIICs all had breakwaters fitted to the top of the hull casing to protect the 88mm deck gun crews from waves. It appears that the process of removing the breakwaters usually occurred during the April/May/June 1941 period. Prior to this the breakwaters were generally present, while after this they were generally absent.
A pattern of small, round free-flooding holes usually replaced the breakwaters. This was intended to help the boat dive slightly faster, but any improvement must have been marginal. Some boats, and indeed all of the late war VIICs and VIIC/41s, did not have any holes in this area at all.

Wind deflector (parts 121 or 124)
Another modification was the wind deflector. Fitted around the outside edge of the top of the tower, this flange was intended to block some of the wind and spray that hit the lookouts

Siara · « **Reply #86 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 11:09 »

Confusing?- not at all. Actually i like the look of the top net cutter, and im glad i can add it to the boat. I gather from what i read in Your article, that U-552 on 10 march 1941- time of sinking of Reykjaborg was equipped with top net cutter, and SG, but no bottom cutter.
I like the sound of that, and i think this feature will add some detail to my boat. Aswell as being more pleasing to the eye, it is historically correct. Perfect. Thanks for Your time Dougie. You give me so much info, and much needed boost for the job in hand. Top man!

dougie47 · « **Reply #87 on:** 17 Aug , 2008, 12:36 »

Hi Siara,

Last point for today. Do you know the piece at the very front of the deck - the front of the net cutter goes directly onto the top of this piece? This piece has a hole through which a tow rope could be passed. Lets call the piece X.

From your pics I can see you will be scratchbuilding it. The photo of U 431 on the first few pages of Showell's U-Boats in Camera is a great guide for you. The caption date of the photo is wrong (it is 05/04/41) but the photo itself is brilliant.

Looking at plans and photos, the front of X should be farther forward - perhaps 3mm or so. The front of the netcutter should then be placed on TOP of the rear of X.

And yes, 10/03/41, U 552 I think had -

top cutter - yes
bottom cutter - no
S-G - yes

The bar in front of the S-G on the photo of U 551 (see photo below) was, I assume, merely a removable guard intended to protect the stem during the launch.

They surely wouldn't have placed a lower netcutter over an S-G.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #88 on:** 18 Aug , 2008, 14:51 »

Thanks Dougie!

First in line of attack were the inspection hatches.
I used the PE from Modelbrass. After schaping the PE to the curvature of the tank i used the soldering iron to carefully sink the PE in plastic.
Sanded the edges smooth.

TBC....

Siara · « **Reply #89 on:** 20 Aug , 2008, 15:33 »

Work started on bullnose.

Once dry i will fill it nicely, and sand to right shape.

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #90 on:** 24 Aug , 2008, 07:32 »

Hi Siara,

Nice work on the hatches and bullnose.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #91 on:** 24 Aug , 2008, 10:46 »

Thanks Dougie!

Bullnose completed, just the netcutter bracket to be fixed:

More work done on repositioning the SG, and reshaping the anchor well:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #92 on:** 25 Aug , 2008, 10:43 »

Anchor:

...and dry fitted:

TBC...

wildspear · « **Reply #93 on:** 25 Aug , 2008, 10:56 »

Great work! It was the work that you have been doing on your build that gave me the inspiration to take a slower and better approach to my build. I was going to enter my build in a contest in sept (by rushing the build, which I wasn

Siara · « **Reply #94 on:** 26 Aug , 2008, 11:00 »

Glad to hear it Wildspear!

It feel so good when people say things like that. Makes all the work worth it.

Today i collected the nameplate:

I was planning the brass plate, but eventually turned to perspex, as the U-boats badge will provide bit of gold accent on the plank allready.
I think it looks mint.

Siara · « **Reply #95 on:** 30 Aug , 2008, 07:06 »

Weather was outstanding lately, so modelling came to the standstill.
Im dry fiting all the bits and bobs on the stand, and came up with something like so:

Obviously when all the painting is done i will remove the temporary timber, and fix themodel to the mahogany plank using proper brass finials.

I was raking my brains about the welds. Plan was to make them using tape, and filler technique, even came up with the tool to make the weld texture:

...but thanks to my friend who recommended me this site my headache is history:
http://www.archertransfers.com/

They offer excellent transfers imitating welds, rivets, cloth stitching, vehicle markings, and many many more superb detailed products.
I ordered the set of welds.
Till the parcell arrive....in enjoing the weather.

Rokket · « **Reply #96 on:** 30 Aug , 2008, 23:06 »

Your details and imagination are makign so many nice layers to your beautiful build. I also liek the transfers, interesting idea, site looks good - can you do a mini review of the product for us?

Siara · « **Reply #97 on:** 02 Sep , 2008, 02:37 »

Quote from: rokket on 30 Aug , 2008, 23:06

Your details and imagination are makign so many nice layers to your beautiful build. I also liek the transfers, interesting idea, site looks good - can you do a mini review of the product for us?

Thanks for good words Rokket! Always highly appreciated.
When i get the decals through the post i will do full review- You can bank on that. It is new technique to me, and im curious as much as the next man. From what ive heard they look good.
After some debate on subsim forum i decided on some more extra details to the display. My friend Conus00 came up with the idea of adding the devil cap badge to balance the display.
Heres how it looks like in photoshop project:

I just ordered one from E-bay. Whats Your view on that chaps? Does it look ok or not?

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #98 on:** 02 Sep , 2008, 10:51 »

Hi Siara,

Yeah, thumbs up from me. The devil adds balance.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #99 on:** 02 Sep , 2008, 11:34 »

Thanks Dougie.

The transfers just arrived today / 2 days from USA

/ and i must say im impressed.

The glass tank is ready also:

I must cut the timber to fit, and router the edges.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #100 on:** 02 Sep , 2008, 14:59 »

good luck with the transfers, let us know...case and bits looking very nice!

Siara · « **Reply #101 on:** 05 Sep , 2008, 01:40 »

I finally find the shop stocking all the bits i always struggled to find in my area.
Especially it was hard finding the small diameter brass tubes.

While there i got some extra supplys, some glue and debonder, and gloss varnish needed for fixing the Archer weld lines.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #102 on:** 08 Sep , 2008, 12:13 »

The devils badge:

I decided to use both badges only, and drop the cross from the display.
That way i get better balance.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #103 on:** 15 Sep , 2008, 05:37 »

Nice display touches

wildspear · « **Reply #104 on:** 20 Sep , 2008, 09:42 »

Siara,

How did the transfers work out? I've been looking at those for my gato since I had to sand quite a bit of the rivets and weld lines while working on the build.

Siara · « **Reply #105 on:** 30 Sep , 2008, 12:09 »

Quote from: wildspear on 20 Sep , 2008, 09:42

Siara,

How did the transfers work out? I've been looking at those for my gato since I had to sand quite a bit of the rivets and weld lines while working on the build.

I havent tried them yet. I just returned from well deserved holiday.
Small update- new bettered plaque. This time without any errors.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #106 on:** 01 Oct , 2008, 02:12 »

Plaque looks very nice. Hope you had a great holiday (and that the relaxing effects aren't wiped out a few days back...). Let us know about those transfers.

Siara · « **Reply #107 on:** 13 Nov , 2008, 12:13 »

I finished moving my stuff, and setting up the new work place:

Work om the boat should commence weekend.

wildspear · « **Reply #108 on:** 13 Nov , 2008, 12:19 »

can't wait too see more progress shots.

dougie47 · « **Reply #109 on:** 14 Nov , 2008, 12:20 »

Hi Siara,

Nice to see you online again. I hope all your models survived the move okay.

Very glad to see Topp's boat sailed to her new port in one piece.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #110 on:** 15 Nov , 2008, 07:58 »

Front dive planes:

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #111 on:** 15 Nov , 2008, 18:16 »

Wow, is your boat going to be able to really DIVE? Such nice work! But how will you shrink humans to be the crew?

Siara · « **Reply #112 on:** 16 Nov , 2008, 02:51 »

Thanks Rokket!

I like to upgrade the model, wherever it is possible, im not in rush to finish it. Things like that take time, but luck is on my side- i have plenty of it.
Hopefuly when i finish the boat it will be something i can look at with satisfaction, and pride.
I had build the models in the past, that after while annoyed me, knowing i could have done some things differently / better / but decided to finish the job quick.
I spose i matured slightly....

Rokket · « **Reply #113 on:** 16 Nov , 2008, 04:28 »

I think you've said it very well! Too many times I have hit a tough patch and then tried to finish up just to be done. But you tend to know when you are taking shortcuts. You say to yourself "it's fine, I've done enough." But it keeps niggling at you. And finally you rip the piece in question apart and do it again, better! Anyway, your build is magnificent! A joy to watch and I'm sure a source of joy when you exhibit the finished project.

Siara · « **Reply #114 on:** 16 Nov , 2008, 08:53 »

Finished detailing the bow planes:

Siara · « **Reply #115 on:** 16 Nov , 2008, 14:13 »

Time to make the line connecting the planes with the pressure hull.

Two lengths of the copper tubing were cut:

Small loops from copper wire:

Dipped in Koki paste, and inserted into tubes. Heated with Dremel tool soldered neatly:

Steel wire from sandwich bags looped, ready to be glued into holes drilled in the p. hull:

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #116 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 02:43 »

Nice work

rabapla · « **Reply #117 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 02:48 »

Siara,

don't know if it was asked before:
are You a dental technician? or watchmaker?

I'm simply IMPRESSED:

Siara · « **Reply #118 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 02:54 »

Quote from: rokket

Nice work

Thank You!

Quote from: rabapla

are You a dental technician? or watchmaker?

Delivery driver.

Now im planning to make the line. I thought about using lycra by WEM, but it is to thin. It streatches nicely, bu it doesnt look like the steel line in RL. It probably is great to make antaena cables on the 1/72 aircrafts, but for what i need it is useless.
I will test the fishing line today, as it offers some streatch also.

rabapla · « **Reply #119 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 03:15 »

railroad stuff:

thread for HO- cranes. woven aspekt, no fuzzing (hope this is the right word...)
there is even wire rope in very small diameter: but You won't be able to tighten it.

GlennCauley · « **Reply #120 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 05:49 »

Check on my U-625 site... I used super-thin black nylon #000 Gutermann thread for that. Glues nicely from what I remember. Should be available at any fabric shop. If you cannot find it, drop me an e-mail and I can mail you some. I have a whole roll here that'll take 20 lifetimes to use up!

And where can I get this "Koki paste" stuff? I've heard great things about it.

GlennCauley · « **Reply #121 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 06:52 »

I'm eager to see the continuation of the bowplane cable tensioner assembly.
I'm curious... the things you just made... are they the "self-adjusting tensioners" that have a heavy spring inside?
(They do not look like normal manually-adjustable cable tensioners like I made for U-625.)

Siara · « **Reply #122 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 12:34 »

Quote from: GlennCauley on 17 Nov , 2008, 06:52

I'm eager to see the continuation of the bowplane cable tensioner assembly.
I'm curious... the things you just made... are they the "self-adjusting tensioners" that have a heavy spring inside?
(They do not look like normal manually-adjustable cable tensioners like I made for U-625.)

Glenn- ive seen your tensioners on the U-625- the hook type on the conning tower. I could not get the reference regarding the bowplane tensioners assembly anywhere on the net, apart from few scetchy drawings, and one, or 2 fuzzy pictures- where to be honest with you all you can see is that the cable is there, but how it is all made is not clear.
I was guided by picture of the Glen Buckners boat:

I was trying to replicate what hes done there.
Am i right or wrong? Is there fotografic evidence how the part looked like?

Regarding the thread i just discovered the EZ line- aparently best thing for that purpose. Aircraft modellers use it for years, and the reviews are optimistic.
http://misc.kitreview.com/tools/ezlinereviewbg_1.htm

Koki paste. Now this is the dady if soldering is required. I got on it through my polish friends from PWM modeling forum. It is not easy to find in England, and i got mine shipped from stockist in Poland. It is made in Japan.
This is the stuff:
http://www.techgsm.at/Solder_paste_for_SMD_KOKI_40g,3937.html
Im sure you can find the stockist near you. Soldering never looked so easy. Combined with Dremel soldering iron produces amazing results- just look at my railings:

I just love this forum. At last im in the company of somilarly minded people.

dougie47 · « **Reply #123 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 15:42 »

Hi guys,

We could do with better photos of the tensioner wire, that's for sure. One of the best shots of the wire is on page 27 of Wiper's pictorial.

The best shot I've seen of the connecting piece (connecting the wire to pressure hull) is on U 69 at the start of Westwood's Anatomy book. The piece is roughly triangular in shape. This photo shows U 69 before launching. The tensioner wire itself hadn't been added at this stage.

Siara, I see that some of your railing stanchions are thicker than the rest. This is correct, of course. But I'm impressed you got them right as most do all the stanchions the same thickness. Well done!

The WEM lycra is fantastic for rigging warships in really small scales. But yeah, it is way too thin for 72nd scale.

I like the look of the Guetermann stuff, Glenn. What diameter did you use?

Probably the hardest thing about the Revell kit is getting the insulators and jumping wires looking right. They are pesky little buggers. I remember trying to scratch build a set for the old Amati 72nd U 47. A very frustrating few hours, I may add!

Cheers,

Dougie

GlennCauley · « **Reply #124 on:** 17 Nov , 2008, 18:35 »

Yup, I just looked at those pics... I have both books right here! The mount for the hull end of that bowplane support cable looks similar to the type of triangular bracket on the tower railings. Triangular with an upper and lower plate.

Also of note on page 27 of the Warship Pictorial book... the rivet double-row along the forward edge of the bow all the way from the top to the bottom. The Revell kit only has the curved double-row of rivets at the front top edge where the pattern curves around the tip of the bow... but is missing that it goes all the way down. That, and the "cleft" in the upper curved tip of the bow. Time to get my file out.

On Westwood's book... first picture of U-69 (U-99)... look at the size/shape of the hatches at the top of the port saddletank. They look round and indented alot, just like Wink's model... not like the oval-shaped covers included in some PE sets.

Siara · « **Reply #125 on:** 18 Nov , 2008, 00:28 »

Quote from: GlennCauley

Yup, I just looked at those pics... I have both books right here! The mount for the hull end of that bowplane support cable looks similar to the type of triangular bracket on the tower railings. Triangular with an upper and lower plate.

Thanks- i will make new brackets. Can you post the scan of the pic in mention for reference please- i dont own that book unfortunately.

Quote from: GlennCauley

Also of note on page 27 of the Warship Pictorial book... the rivet double-row along the forward edge of the bow all the way from the top to the bottom. The Revell kit only has the curved double-row of rivets at the front top edge where the pattern curves around the tip of the bow... but is missing that it goes all the way down. That, and the "cleft" in the upper curved tip of the bow. Time to get my file out.

I got that one figured out long ago.

Quote from: GlennCauley

On Westwood's book... first picture of U-69 (U-99)... look at the size/shape of the hatches at the top of the port saddletank. They look round and indented alot, just like Wink's model... not like the oval-shaped covers included in some PE sets.

Im happy with the way my hatches turned out. Looking at reference pictures of the real boats there probably is more than 1 design of the hatches out there. I came to the conclusion, that it depends of the yard where the boat was build. Some are oval with tightening nuts running round the edge, some are round with 3 nuts running vertical through the midle.

Fantastic topic type VII dont you think?

BTW: That should cheer you all up:

Rokket · « **Reply #126 on:** 18 Nov , 2008, 23:49 »

EZ Line - I bought a test piece, it's interesting stuff, it glues with CA. I ended up with non-hairy thread, but I almost continued with EZ. It is stretchy and comes in some nice thin dia.

dougie47 · « **Reply #127 on:** 19 Nov , 2008, 11:44 »

Hi guys,

Ah, the inpection cover shape debate! I'd say Wink was definitely right to make his U 557 covers more round in shape. And yes, I'd agree that there was probably variances in the shape of the covers, with some rounder than others.

We know from the U 69 photos that the ones on this boat were oval (though they may have been close being round in shape). The reason is that you can see the different orientation of the covers. The front two, and the last one (closest the stern) were aligned perpedicular to the length of the boat. The 3rd and 4th holes from the front were aligned on the same orientation as the length of the boat. As we can tell there was orientation they must have been oval rather than round.

As to whether the U 69 ones were like the Modelbrass ones or Wink's model...probably closer to Wink's?

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #128 on:** 20 Nov , 2008, 12:44 »

I decided to make the new brackets for the fasteners.

1mm wire was soldered to the back of the brackets to give it strength when mounted:

With the screw:

Small hole was drilled in the right place:

Glued in:

After it cured i applied slight pressure with hot soldering iron to sink the brackets in flush with the p. hull.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #129 on:** 21 Nov , 2008, 01:32 »

EXCELLENT bracket, very crisp and real looking!

Siara · « **Reply #130 on:** 26 Nov , 2008, 15:09 »

Thanks Rokket.

Unfortunately im running round in circles again. Not for the first time, and not the last. Thats the beauty of this build.

Saddle tanks vents. This is what ive made:

...and this is what the vents should look like:

Vents gone, and filled in with Miliput:

Green filler applied:

New vents. Not much different to what revell had in offer. Well....live and learn.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #131 on:** 27 Nov , 2008, 00:24 »

Ya, its always a tough choice about what to replace, and sometimes you find out the replacement isn't much different. But then, other times it is waaaay better. Overall, your efforts have been just right with outstanding results!

Siara · « **Reply #132 on:** 29 Nov , 2008, 11:26 »

Stern section.

Rudder and stern planes.

It is only dry fitted, now i will dismantle it, and sand the filler, add detail, welds and rivwts. Brass screws will complete the set up.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #133 on:** 30 Nov , 2008, 13:53 »

Some detail on the stern dive planes as seen on U-995.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #134 on:** 01 Dec , 2008, 11:33 »

Minor modification- ive changed the little weld for the wire bracket, after closer look at the pictures of the U-995.

I used the 0,2 mm copper wire, flettened by rolling, and super glued it to the plane.

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #135 on:** 01 Dec , 2008, 14:25 »

Hi Siara,

You're doing great work as always. Really coming along well. The wire bracket looks great too - just like on U 995.

The parts you've added to the planes are definitely there on U 995. No doubt about that, and it is very good that you noticed them (I hadn't!). However, U 995 is a bit of a nightmare. There are several features of the modern U 995 that aren't absolutely correct for VIICs. So we have to be very careful when using this boat as a reference.

After her service in the Norwegian Navy, U 995 was a bit of a mess. She didn't even have a second wintergarten at this time. The deck, for example, had to be completely rebuilt. When the boat was moved by a very large crane in 1972 to Laboe there were a few small pieces added to the hull. I can't make out what the pieces were but they weren't there when the boat was in the Kreigsmarine. The pieces may have been similar to the parts on the planes that you have added.

On the few photos I have seen of VIIC dive planes, the parts on U 995's dive planes weren't there. I can't see them on the image below of U 821. However, I haven't seen many images. Maybe other people have images where these parts are visible? Can anybody help?

While we are on this area, the two red arrows point to parts that wrap around around the dive plane supports. They were on U 99 too. You can see them on the left image on page 25 of Steve Wiper's VII book. They both have a number of holes on the bottom surface.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #136 on:** 04 Dec , 2008, 12:45 »

Thanks Dougie for your input.
I think i leave the brackets as they are, because it adds nice detail to planes, and we cant realy establish that U-552 didnt have them installed. My theory was, the brackets were used for fastening the planes when the boat was drydocked?
I cant imagine such small brackets giving advantage during lifting process.
This is one of the things about the U-boot build, that lives a lot of open windows for the modeller.

As to the supports from the picture- is it the same thing as on the picture of U-995? Perhaps the plane supports were bolted on?
There are some bolts visible on top of the supporting arm. Looks like it to me.

Im realy curious. Seems strange that with over 1000 boats build, there isnt one good picture of the stern planes. $:-\$

dougie47 · « **Reply #137 on:** 04 Dec , 2008, 15:11 »

Hi Siara,

The image below is a poor scan of page 25 of Steve Wiper's Warship Pictorial 27 book on VIIs-

Could be a bolt. Does the blue arrow point to a bolt or a big rivet? I can't make it out too well.

The red arrows point to the parts that are also on U 825. They are quite near the prop blades.

The bright green arrow points to another similar part that was also on U 825. This one is on the front of the dive plane itself. Again note the position - directly behind the prop. Any ideas guys?

Yeah, it is very frustrating that we don't have decent close up shots of many areas of VIIs.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #138 on:** 04 Dec , 2008, 15:16 »

Nice one Dougie! I will replicate it also. Thanks a lot for the picture.

Siara · « **Reply #139 on:** 05 Dec , 2008, 15:55 »

Rokket · « **Reply #140 on:** 05 Dec , 2008, 16:11 »

Very nice, love the prop weathering and the PE additions

Siara · « **Reply #141 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 05:48 »

Rivets:

Siara · « **Reply #142 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 09:01 »

Detailin rudder:

Addidtional surface detail before it is painted. Only welds remain:

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #143 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 11:50 »

Hi Siara,

Rivets look superb. Also love the new parts on the dive plane supports!

Before you get to the painting stage, do you know that the main drainage slot (the big one above the saddle tanks) was different lengths on either side? I've updated my free-flooding hole pattern article, which will be available soon. In it I show that the port one was longer than the starboard one. Sounds strange but once it is explained it becomes very obvious.

Would you mind posting shots of your model that show the free-flooding vents ahead of the saddle tanks (on both sides)? I'm guessing you've already fixed the starboard side.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #144 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 12:05 »

Hi Dougie.
This is the starboard side:

And port:

dougie47 · « **Reply #145 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 13:52 »

Hi Siara,

I hope you don't mind me posting the following. You are obviously going super-accurate with your model and I am only trying to help. I apologise if it is a bit annoying when I point some things out. I myself get frustrated sometimes when researching the boats to high levels of accuracy. It just adds on more and more little things that need fixed on the kit!

On the starboard side the main slot should start directly behind vent 25 (vent 25 being the 25th vent back on the top row). I have pointed a green arrow -

Now here is the surprising thing. The main slot started at this same location no matter how many holes on the top row (some had 18 others 25). My estimate is that 15mm should be FILLED IN at the front end of the Revell main slot on the starboard side.

On the port side the main slot should start directly behind vent 21. The green arrow points -

Most U-boats had 20 or 21 vents on the top row on the port side. The main slot on the port side always started just behind the postion of vent 21. My estimate is that 11mm should be DRILLED AWAY at the front end of the Revell main slot on port side. You've already filled some in so it is very nearly correct on your model.

It should be clearer when you read the updated article. But just in case you are painting before the article is online I thought I'd mention it now so you can take a look at U 552 photos. Please don't shoot the messenger!

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #146 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 14:05 »

Now i know what you mean:

Looks like im gonna have to make correction. The only problem its going to be the ribs. I can cut the slot to make it wider with no problem.
Im gonna have to come up with something. Thanks for pointing this out. Hope it isnt to late.

dougie47 · « **Reply #147 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 14:10 »

Hi Siara,

Very welcome. Let us know how you get on.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #148 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 14:13 »

Quote from: dougie47 on 06 Dec , 2008, 14:10

Let us know how you get on.

I will. BTW-following your advice i got rid of the loops on the dive planes to make my model more historicaly accurate. It broke my heart to bin such nice detail, but i thought- what the heck.....Cheerio.

wildspear · « **Reply #149 on:** 06 Dec , 2008, 16:18 »

This is some great reading. When (if

) I finish my Gato the next on the list is a U-boat.

Siara · « **Reply #150 on:** 07 Dec , 2008, 03:58 »

Quote from: wildspear on 06 Dec , 2008, 16:18

This is some great reading. When (if ) I finish my Gato the next on the list is a U-boat.

Good thinking Wildspear. Hope to see the WIP here, on AMP forum.

I managed to drill the slot, and install the missing ribs. It took a while.

Hope it is right now.

dougie47 · « **Reply #151 on:** 07 Dec , 2008, 06:05 »

Hi Siara,

Excellent, looks perfect now. Sorry to have caused more work for you.

Taking the loops off the dive planes must have been difficult for you. I've looked again and I think the brackets and other bits were added before U 995's move to Laboe. I'm guessing the other bits were removed...and they forgot to remove the dive plane brackets.

They also forgot to put the Balkongerat back on. It was there during the initial phase of the boat's move to Laboe in late 1971. But in March 1972, when the boat was postioned at Laboe, it was missing. Where did the Balkongerat go? It is a bit big to lose!

There are quite a few features of U 995 that aren't right. The exhaust outlet shroud that was put on during the restoration was an early VIIC style - U 995 never had it. Then there are some small groups of vents on the casing above the saddle tanks. They weren't there when the boat was moved to Laboe and didn't feature on the wartime U 995. There are now only 3 holes near the bow (well above the torpedo doors) rather than the correct 12 the boat had in 1972. And some sort of triangular support has appeared on the deck right next to the bow. Another similar one is on the deck next to the stern.

In recent years they have closed off all of the vents around the torpedo doors. This is likely to help protect the boat from corrosion. But it is a shame - the bow just doesn't look right.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #152 on:** 07 Dec , 2008, 06:17 »

Quote from: dougie47 on 07 Dec , 2008, 06:05

Hi Siara,
Excellent, looks perfect now.

Thanks Dougie.

You right- in total the U-995 looks bit sad, and doesnt represent much in reference material. Im just glad it is there at all, as the only surviving / whole / type VII in the world.

BTW: Whats happening to the Birkenhead boat? Any news when the boat exhibition will open? Even tho it is now cut to 5 piecess id still like to visit it. I never had the chance to see the U-boat in RL, the only time i vent to Liverpool the boat was in the cutting process.

dougie47 · « **Reply #153 on:** 07 Dec , 2008, 07:15 »

Hi Siara,

Not sure about the Liverpool boat. It will be good to see it whenever it is open to the public. At least U 995 is in one piece. It is a dreadful shame the U 534 was cut up.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #154 on:** 14 Dec , 2008, 15:27 »

Started work at 7 in the morning, and finished sanding, and riveting the bow at 22.18.

I get funny looks from my wife now.

Good thing is i have the whole bow ready for doublers now.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #155 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 00:12 »

Looking good! Don't worry about the funny looks from the wife. They can be strange creatures

rabapla · « **Reply #156 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 03:11 »

well, not much funnier than folks running around in T-shirts with "I like u-boats" written on it...............

billp51d · « **Reply #157 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 07:01 »

WINK ...THAT LAST REMARK SOUNDS A LITTLE BIT ENVIOUS TO ME..

billp51d · « **Reply #158 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 09:26 »

Dougie...Is lengthening the slot above the saddle tank pretty much needed on all boats, or just noted on u-552 and that batch in particular.. ?

Siara · « **Reply #159 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 12:00 »

Continuing with the doublers:

TBC....

dougie47 · « **Reply #160 on:** 16 Dec , 2008, 13:44 »

Hi Siara,

Love the doublers, they look great.

Bill, the lengthening of the slot on one side and shortening on the other side needs to be done for ANY VIIC, regardless of batch or number. I'll cover this in more detail in my updated Type VIIC free-flooding vent patterns article. The updated pdf will be available soon...but we're tending to Type II PE business first.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #161 on:** 17 Dec , 2008, 15:19 »

In order to make the bow planes move in the dependent fashion i produced the 1mm brass rod:

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #162 on:** 18 Dec , 2008, 01:09 »

Are you building a bunker and yard crew, too?

Siara · « **Reply #163 on:** 18 Dec , 2008, 01:33 »

Quote from: rokket on 18 Dec , 2008, 01:09

Are you building a bunker and yard crew, too?

Maybe one day- my place is not big enough for such project at the moment. :-)
I will have crew manning the 88mm gun, and watch scentry on conning tower deck.

Siara · « **Reply #164 on:** 18 Dec , 2008, 03:48 »

The rigging stuff just arrived, and im very impressed.
It is exactly what i was looking for. Size ranges from 0,18mm- 0,6mm in 10m lengths.

Bought at the Modellingtimbers internet shop for nautical modellers.

Short description:
"Egyptian cotton is noted through out the world as one of the finest cottons available. We are proud to be able to offer our customers this fine material for modelling purposes. All the following threads are 100% Egyptian cotton and are unbleached natural colour should you wish to dye them. The material has very low lint characteristics with a unique linen finish.

This material is over 30 years old and it can never be produced again. It's quality has to be seen to be believed. Made in Lancashire this material is renowned for its quality and was long thought to have disappeared, luckily the company that supplies us has found this treasure hiding in there stock room. Stock they did not even know they had it's so long since anybody has seen it! To that end we have now bought all the stock so as to be able to share this with fellow modellers."

Rokket · « **Reply #165 on:** 18 Dec , 2008, 03:56 »

Very nice stuff, it's not "hairy" (beeswax will fix hairs). The rigging is always a pain (right material, then building it) but the end effect is great. Anxious to see how you use it, a good lesson I'm sure for others! I hope you have a becks Beer or champagne or similar read for the launching!

Siara · « **Reply #166 on:** 20 Dec , 2008, 14:47 »

Time for weldlines.
I didnt use the Archer transfers, due to the complex curvature of the hull. Instead i went down the path of tried, and tested masking, and filling technique.
To my eye it is the best, and quickest method. After sanding it will be barely visible against the light, when painted- spot on.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #167 on:** 20 Dec , 2008, 16:35 »

Being a huge fa of this method myself, I think you're making the best choice! Looking good!

Siara · « **Reply #168 on:** 20 Dec , 2008, 16:54 »

Thanks Rokket- your model was the inspiration.

After studying the pictures time, and time again i spoted small part of the bow, that isnt shown on any plans i have, and never been replicated on the model before.
Heres few pics of the part, and quick mock up i created of how i see it. Does anyone know what that actualy is?
Is it part of the GHG, and if so- was it present on U-552?
Dougie- Blohm & Voss yard needs you.

Thanks in advance.

dougie47 · « **Reply #169 on:** 21 Dec , 2008, 07:29 »

Hi Siara,

I haven't established what that triangular part was. Nor have I figured out how many boats had it. I've checked and it looks like it is there on a photo of U 559. So I'd fit the part, whatever it is.

Best of luck with it.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #170 on:** 21 Dec , 2008, 07:59 »

Thanks Dougie. Im gonna have to improvise.
Ill do it the best i could.

The thin strip around the anchor well.
I used thin copper wire, sanded on both sides flat.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #171 on:** 21 Dec , 2008, 16:49 »

Rokket · « **Reply #172 on:** 22 Dec , 2008, 03:20 »

It's damn frustrating to be i this situation - discover a new angle/part and not have full info. I've never noticed it before!

Siara · « **Reply #173 on:** 23 Dec , 2008, 16:01 »

Quote from: rokket on 22 Dec , 2008, 03:20

It's damn frustrating to be i this situation - discover a new angle/part and not have full info. I've never noticed it before!

You right- like this little detail here:

Next step- deck fixings.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #174 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 09:37 »

Deck furnishings.
First line of attack- bollards.
Bollards in stowed possition:

...and raised:

I have 4 different sets to choose from. Im thinking Modellbrass. Most bollards on my model will be in stowed possition, and couple will be slightly raised to nicely vary deck detail.

TBC...

billp51d · « **Reply #175 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 10:12 »

Siara...I'm sure you noticed..But in case you haven't....When bollards were in the raised position they were turned slightly to lock them in the up postion...Just a thought..
Merry Christmas..Bill in the U.S.A.

Siara · « **Reply #176 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 10:20 »

Thanks Bill- i havnt noticed it. Ill keep it in mind.

wildspear · « **Reply #177 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 12:56 »

Good call Bill. The picture Siara posted of the bollards raised show they were turned slightly (maybe a 1/4 of the way). Great looking build Siara.

Rokket · « **Reply #178 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 15:45 »

Those pipes to the tanks I did notice fortunately, but not the bollard turn.

Siara · « **Reply #179 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 15:51 »

Thanks Wildspear!

Rokket- thats why i record every step on this superb forum, full of submarine enthusiasts. If i miss anything, it is quickly spoted by someone.
Thanks for your help guys- i really appreciate it.

I decided to go modelbrass.
It offers best option in creating hollow bollard.
First i used 2,5mm brass tubing to cut 12 even sections- 5mm in length.
The tops were glued in.

TBC...

Rokket · « **Reply #180 on:** 24 Dec , 2008, 15:54 »

Mighty impressive bollards, never thought of brass. I must say, you have great imagination and skills, not the least of which is your soldering ability. When you start building mini roots to crew the boat, I WILL get nervous though!

Siara · « **Reply #181 on:** 25 Dec , 2008, 04:55 »

Thanks Rokket.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #182 on:** 25 Dec , 2008, 11:07 »

Modelbrass set has only 2 plates with holes pointing in different directions. The other 4 are wrong.
I have scratch build new set of plates for stern bollards.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #183 on:** 25 Dec , 2008, 15:02 »

The most forward set of bollards:

One more at the stern, and i can start heeling my fingers.

Rokket · « **Reply #184 on:** 25 Dec , 2008, 16:08 »

blod and skin - small price for the excellent work!

Siara · « **Reply #185 on:** 25 Dec , 2008, 16:18 »

No blood yet, but will be sore in the morning.

Last set of bollards. Slightly complicated, because there was no plate under them- the deck is steel here enyway. Unfortunately the Eduard PE depicting the deck, had set of bollards already etched in- so it needed to be sanded carefully, not to damage the delicate antislip surface.
But it worked.

All the bollards have been completed today. Looks like Christmas work good for modelling.

Siara · « **Reply #186 on:** 26 Dec , 2008, 07:40 »

Cooks hatch:

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #187 on:** 26 Dec , 2008, 09:52 »

TBC...

dougie47 · « **Reply #188 on:** 26 Dec , 2008, 11:26 »

Hi Siar,

Before I forget, you might want to research the breakwaters. When I designed photo-etch breakwaters (with help from Wink) for my intended 35th scale waterline U 47, I had to add small holes near the edge. These small holes allowed water to drain through. U 47's breakwaters also had a small lip along the edge. Here's a photo of U 47 -

There are really small details so they are difficult to see in photos. I'm not sure if the breakwaters on U 552 were identical to U 47. U 47's breakwaters were fitted in 1939, U 552 breakwaters were fitted later.

Keep up the excellent work you are doing.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #189 on:** 26 Dec , 2008, 11:35 »

Thanks Dougie.
Nice picture! I know about the lip- in fact it runns all along the edge of the deck, but theres no chance i can replicate it. As to the holes on the breakwaters i may be able to do something about it.

Cheerio.

Rokket · « **Reply #190 on:** 26 Dec , 2008, 14:56 »

The hatch - for me, it's those types of "sub assemblies" (no pun intended, but puns are great) that are really fun and exciting. Yours looks very real and miniature.

The Lip - I know, if this were 1:48, I think do-able, but I could find no solid solution that wouldn't look stupid or cause problems. I wonder how many people tripp/slipped on the real one?

Siara · « **Reply #191 on:** 27 Dec , 2008, 13:04 »

While studying the picture above, and the one you shown earlier Dougie i discovered few areas that need clarification.

Number 1 showing the half circular steel decking plate. Some U-Boots had it, some not. If im not mistaken this is correct for early U-552.

Number 2 pointing to some hatches on the side of the boat. This can be some repaired areas- im not sure.
Number 3 showing clearly the openings in the starboard side of the skirting. This opening is not visible on the port side of any boat, and only few had it on starboard side. What is it, and is there clearer picture of the thing?

Picture below is displaying the wooden strip on the side of the deck, just in front of starboard bollards. Im not sure what it was used for, but nearly all the bats had it. I think it was only mounted on starboard side aswell. Am i correct Dougie?

Thanks for your help in advance, and sorry to bother you so much, but i like to research this build in greater detail.

Siara

Siara · « **Reply #192 on:** 27 Dec , 2008, 13:23 »

I just went through my stash of pictures again, and found interesting foto:

It shows the semi circular plate, and the plank of wood fixed to the port side of the deck.

dougie47 · « **Reply #193 on:** 28 Dec , 2008, 07:27 »

Hi Siara,

Some of your questions are more tricky than others but I'll try to help.

1 - the semi circular part was an air identification plate. Type IXs and IIs had it also, which is why we are including this piece in our Type II set. It is seen sporadically on U-boat decks. But since U 552 had it in your photo you should definitely add one.

2 - There were some panels on the side of the hull. I can't see any hinges for them but that might be because they would be so small. You can see the location and size of the panels on U 47's hull on my side profile -

http://amp.rokket.biz/waterlinebig.shtml

3 - I can't make out what this is. Normally I would say it was equipment associated with mooring the boat - when boats came in and out of port there was various parts strewn over the deck. But the openings do look rectangular in shape.

4 - The wooden strip was on both sides - port and starboard - so they need to be added.

Hope this helps.

Cheers,

Dougie

Siara · « **Reply #194 on:** 28 Dec , 2008, 07:31 »

Thank you Dougie!

Perfect answer- as always.

Siara · « **Reply #195 on:** 28 Dec , 2008, 10:11 »

Furnishing of the deck continues.
Small hatch, just in front of the 88mm gun.

Stern section of the deck getting some detail.

TBC....

Siara · « **Reply #196 on:** 28 Dec , 2008, 13:04 »

Antislip strips.

TBC...

Siara · « **Reply #197 on:** 29 Dec , 2008, 14:13 »

"Slight" improvement to the net cutter:

Siara · « **Reply #198 on:** 30 Dec , 2008, 11:17 »

Net cutter finished.

To give you better feel for the scale, heres the bracket against the pencil:

TBC...

bracco_n · « **Reply #199 on:** 30 Dec , 2008, 16:27 »

You're doing a great job Siara! I wonder how do you build things so small, are you a surgeon?
Congrats again