D VII Mercedes engine build with brass.

[xken]

This is how the engine was fabricated in layer of 1/8" thick brass stock. Just like using wood. They were cut internally and externally to required shapes. Spring clamps and a machine screw held layers together during soldering operation with a torch. I use Staybrite Silver Solder available at most shops.

This shot shows the shaping of the block upper and lower halves, this was all done with an assortment of hand files. Very carefully and slowly, no chance for filler. The inside core was cleaned and trimmed using a ball end mill in a Dremel tool.

This is an in-progress shot of me holding the parts together, gives a sense of scale. Pardon my grubby fingers. I have a series of photos of this engine owned by Dave Watts, if anyone needs some reference material.

This last shot is the engine installed in the fuselage. Note the hose clamp, it is easily fabricated using a jeweller's saw and almost cutting all the way thru a piece of tube, then solder a small tube for tightening screw. Clean off excess solder and then cut off from tube. Gives a nice touch of detail.

[MicroSculpt]

Xken:

Impressive work! You certainly know how to handle brass. More please.

Cheers!

Tom

[StephenLawson]

This is real art. Imagine a kit like that available to us humble modelers. Excuse me while I go wash the slobber off.

[xken]

Tom, here is a link to my photo albums if you want to see hundreds of build pictures. Just click on a plane and then you will see the build pictures. Click on a picture to enlarge. Enjoy! Let me know what you think.

http://kenforan.myphotoalbum.com/

[Biber]

HOLY COW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I've dreamed about doing things like that!

Keep up the amazing work!!!

Biber

[xken]

Stephen,

I cast several resin engines before assembling the brass one. I used the individual brass parts as masters. I cast the silicone molds then pressure cast the parts for ultimate detail. I do have only four more "kits" available., and they are pricey by some peoples standards. These were intended for my own use but are available to those who appreciate and respect the quality of the work. Follow the link below to view the results of Martin Wolf's build. He did an excellent job of building and painting and his own embellishments. He came back and also had me do the prop for him.

Have a great day! Enjoy!

Ken
http://www.wwi-models.org/Images/Wol...iii/index.html

[JohnReid]

I have been lucky enough to obtain one of Ken's kits.In fact I will using it in my "Memories of flight School " engine shop along with the second OX5.
This is a very high quality kit.
Cheers! John.

[Roadhog]

Dear xken, Your work with metals and such fine attention to detail has brought our art to a new level of realism. Way to go sir! VR, Roadhog "Memento mori."

[vonGoebel]

Amazing work! Your scratchbuilt Dr.I, D.VII, E.IV and Camel are a joy to behold and I look forward to your continuing posts.