Construction of the Front Superstructure.

So we begin to make a start on the front superstructure module: with the side and rear sections cut, we make use of the precision steel blocks, to keep everyting in place while the adhesive sets up.

Use of the heavy metal blocks comes in handy to press the material into shape.

The basic structure now assembled, work now begins on assembling the bridge.

My use of the precision blocks in the construction of further sub-modules for this superstructure.

Here we see the bridge, now well under construction.

Care is required when cutting out the windows!

It's also handy to make up a jig to get the angle of the bridge walls accurate and consistant.

The bridge sub module, complete with its first coat of filler primer.

This show up all defects that require further work, i.e. filling and sanding, as required.

This picture shows a simple jig to aid the construction of the antenna support structure for the main and fore mast.

The jig gives uniformity for all of these structures. It also makes soldering very simple.

Work well underway on the main mast, with the main components in place prior to receiving a coat of filler primer.

This picture shows work in progress on the 996 radar head, with work on fitting rail stanchions underway.

The main mast, complete with the abby hill and 996 platform and radar head.

Work starting on the funnel base sub-assembly.

This picture shows a Sirmar Models funnel.

This fitting requires side platforms, ladders and handrails to be constructed and attached.

The completed funnel sub-assembly, ready for priming.

Back to the main superstructure, and a start on fitting the scott dome platforms.

The first of two pictures showing the platforms completed and ready for fitting to the main superstructure.

And the second picture.

Work starting on the sub module for the 1022 radar head.

The completed 1022 module.

Here we see the method used to coax a piece of Plasticard into shape.

These two pictures show the progress to date on the superstructure module.

This has consumed some 200 hours, so far.