Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Navy - Military - Battleships: => Topic started by: dlancast on September 07, 2017, 05:46:42 pm

Title: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 07, 2017, 05:46:42 pm
Howdy Folks,  Well, once again, we begin a new build as I continue down the "aircraft carrier road".  Next in line is the USS Lexington or "Lexi Lady" or "Gray Lady".  She had an interesting career with a sad ending, being sunk during the battle of Coral Sea, May 8, 1942.  I will try to depect her as she might have looked in May of 1942 configuration and color.  At 888ft and a scale of 1/350, I am still dealing with a model that is 33" long (so much for the small footpring idea).  Kit is typical Trumpeter quality and I hope accuracy.  I have have supplimented detail with an upscale kit of PE from Gold Medal Models, here in Washington State, US.  I have been busy drilling out all of the portholes, something I like to do.  Was happy to see the casting has proper "eyebrows" over the ports.  Hull plating is lacking on the casting and truthfully, at this scale, it would be hard to see.  I could mimic the plating with paint, not sure if its worth the effort.  Dark grey hull color will hide alot.  Getting used to that massive smoke stack island... what a monster, I wonder how it affected trim on the ship underway.  Pictures I have seen show her really blowing some black smoke.  So far so good.  Cross members on the upper hull section are stiffeners to hold shape.  I am having to add wood stiffeners on the lower hull half to achieve proper shape and alignment before joining the halves.  So, here we go.  Hope you all enjoy the process.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 07, 2017, 05:47:03 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Capt Podge on September 07, 2017, 08:59:44 pm
Hello again Dennis, your modelling is so prolific, it's hard to keep up with you !

Looking in on this one for the sheer pleasure of watching it come together.
Good luck with the build. :-))

Regards,

Ray.

n.b. Is this model going to stay with you....or building for someone else ?
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 07, 2017, 09:54:19 pm
Thank you sir.  My models are always available for purchase.  As it turns out, I had my Arizona model on display in my family room and my contractor saw it and bought it on the spot.  I don't advertise.  Sometimes, word just gets around.  My wife likes it cause it keeps the inventory down some and adds some extra cash.  I just do it for the shear love of it.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on September 08, 2017, 09:25:37 am
Crikey Dennis, I've only put the lid back on the biscuit barrel having seen you finish the Langley! Well, I salute your energy-straight onto the next one.

Will you build Saratoga next as a comparison or move onto ranger as it is a ground up design showing the next generation of carrier development? Sorry to jump ahead but this is an interesting long term project of yours  :-))

Good work so far, I admire your efforts driling all those squillions of portholes and door openings.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 08, 2017, 04:30:49 pm
Well my friend, I have decided to skip the Saratoga, as it was the same class.  I have already ordered the USS Ranger CV-4, which should be here next week.  She was a tad smaller than the Lexi and seems to have some of the features of the Langley, girder supports up at the bow and swivel smoke stacks, plus her island was a last minute add on I believe.  I have decided to finish out the Lexi with weathering, as she had to skip her haulouts towards the end and as I understand it, she was looking pretty rough.  I found the correct US Navy blue grey dark color and have started to paint that on the hull.  I'll try not to over-do it.  Weathering is a skill in my books and I am not that good at it.  I'll probably be asking for help as I go along with it.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: TailUK on September 08, 2017, 07:15:40 pm
So the Lexington in 1942.  So Dauntless, Devastators and Wildcats?
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 09, 2017, 02:24:12 am
That is correct for 1942. Unfortunately, the kit manufacturer only gave me a token few of each,  I will need to suppliment from outside kits to bring up my aircraft count, which are readily available at a price.  I will need to give that thought, even though the Lexi had an enormous hanger deck, there are no side viewing ports to see aircraft stored below.  I know I can get 15 on deck easily.  I think that it is the aircraft that really add to a model aircraft carrier for the viewer.  After all, it is a "Bird Farm". ;)  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Akira on September 09, 2017, 02:40:15 am
Dennis,
 I would think that you could manage far more than 15on deck. After all, an entire would normally be sighted on deck for launch. I hope you are only referring to what came with the kit. A great reference to help you, "The Lexington Class Carriers" by Robert Stern, ISBN 155750-503-9.
Published by Naval Institute Press. Wicked good builds!
Jonathan
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 10, 2017, 06:23:39 am
Ok, I am beginning the weathering process on the upper hull section. The base color is "US Navy Blue Grey Medium" by Model Master Acryl water based enamel.  Brushed on. I dry brushed on a "Light Grey" for the weathered look, and I then used 1/8" pin stripe tape to simulate hull plating and then dab brushed on the "Blue Grey", over the tape and lightly in between.  I immediately before the paint dried, pulled the tape.  After the paint set, I lightly scribed in vertical lines with my #11 xacto blade to show plate joints.  I'm playing with some "Rust" color for that effect, trying not to over-do the rust.  I think its gonna work over-all.  From what I have read, the Lexi was pretty worn looking, since she missed her haulout sched. in Hawaii, then was sunk.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 10, 2017, 06:24:03 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 14, 2017, 01:49:20 am
Status to date:  the upper half and lower half of the hull has been joined and final painted, prop shafts mounted and rudder.  AA gun tubs have been added just below the flight deck fore and aft. Recessed portals on port and stbd have been installed and painted. Work has begun on the first of "many" AA guns (20mm Oerlikon gun) shown with PE upscale details, such as shield, gun sight, shoulder rests and adjust wheel added.  I have provided a scale so that one can see the tiny size of this instrument of torture.  I will be at this a while, if I don't lose my mind before they are all completed. {:-{   Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 14, 2017, 01:49:58 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 14, 2017, 01:50:22 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on September 14, 2017, 07:57:06 pm
Wowsers Dennis, they are good little models in their own right.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 15, 2017, 05:38:48 am
yes, each is an individual kit.  The 5" guns have a total of 6 parts including the PE.  I have finished and mounted the 28mm gun, with its site guarded by two 50 cal. machine guns which include a gun site and sholder supports.  I am working on 3, 5" guns, one of which has the PE added so you can get an idea of detail. they need painting before gluing to the tubs.  Got 9 more to make of each, I think.....
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 15, 2017, 05:39:12 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 15, 2017, 05:39:35 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: rnli12 on September 15, 2017, 06:32:28 am
Dennis,

Your starting to tempt me into building one at this scale! keep on going....

Rich
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 25, 2017, 04:22:25 am
AA guns and deck netting has been taking up most of my time here folks. For section of flight deck is now mounted.  I made up (24) 20mm cannon for fun.  Yes, you should do a model at this scale (1/350)... nice challenge for sure.  Into ships boats now.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 25, 2017, 04:22:50 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 25, 2017, 04:23:11 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 25, 2017, 04:23:37 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on September 25, 2017, 11:33:09 pm
In the last photo, is that recess for a boat with a platform added to ship the Oerlikons outboard, and if so now was the boat to be Launched?

Were the weapons tipped overboard in an emergency or was the boat removed?

She is looking good Dennis  :-))
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 26, 2017, 12:46:03 am
I wondered that myself.  The "tray" actually rolled in and out of the recess for the 20 mm AA's ... the next two recesses on the port side will house some of the ships boats and will be raised and lowered by davits standard.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 26, 2017, 02:40:40 am
First of ships boats painted and installed.  PE really helps with railing and prop and shaft and rudder.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 26, 2017, 02:41:04 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 26, 2017, 02:41:27 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: warspite on September 26, 2017, 05:44:50 pm
is that the 'WALKING THE PLANK' where the boat is  {-)
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 26, 2017, 06:29:54 pm
hahah.... {-) .... does look like one dosent' it..  No, that is the lower platform for a set of stairs that will be coming down from the deck above, outside the hull.  If you look closely, you can see a small set of stairs inside at the left back side that are cast into the plastic.  It took me a while to figure that out, as it was not clear on the plans.  Actually, I am picking up some detail from the fine artwork of the ship on the kit box.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 27, 2017, 01:27:00 am
Had to take a couple of shots of one of the Utility Boats nearing completion.  Its the PE that is amazing.  What you can see is a prop shaft and prop, rudder and tiller and stern pulpit.  The pulpit is 4 mm square, the boat is 35 mm long. I'm telling you, this PE is amazing what they can do.  Build on!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on September 27, 2017, 01:27:28 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 03, 2017, 09:42:42 pm
It isn't like I've been slacking or something, but have been caught up in a ton of details, assembly and installation of AA guns, ships boats, life netting, deck painting, etc.  I've included a few shots of what some of that looks like. All of my PE netting requires wire supports underneath to give some strength after gluing.  I will show some of those nets in a 90deg raised position which was used for a wind break at different times when aircraft were on board. These will only be on the Port side of the ship.   The color of the deck is my best guess from research... she had a wood deck and was colored a dark grey, some say dark blue.. I started with a tan for the first coat, then slightly washed dark grey over that to try to give it a worn look and still come out looking a bit grey.  The striping is a light sea grey, not yellow as some would say.  This whole color thing really becomes a rivet counting sort of thing and its still a question... most photos where black and white and their is printed records of paint colors used.. but then do you want to present freshly painted or weathered, which is more likely unless she just came out of dry dock.. and on and on.  I took my best shot.  The hull sides are warped and thin, so I will need to place wood supports in to stabilize the sides before laying that second deck section.. its in there dry for photos.  Such as it is, its been fun so far.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 03, 2017, 09:43:09 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 03, 2017, 09:43:32 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on October 05, 2017, 10:23:50 pm
Etch can be fabulous stuff. I like the 1:700th scale etched crew figures you can get. The paint thickens them up nicely.

As per usual you are doing lovely work and 'edumacating' us on points of detail on your build. The point you make about the sliding tray is so intersting, and a lovely thing that could be motorised on a larger scale RC model.

Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 06, 2017, 01:37:04 am
thank you kind sir.  Things are moving along nicely now. Installing arresting gear on flight deck. Wind breaks are in as well.  Last flight deck section is being painted.  I often wondered about those PE human figures and never thought that the paint is what adds the 3D effect.  My PE set has one figure, the last Captain (Capt. Frederick C. Sherman).  Now I know how to fit him out.... Thank you!  Yes, the sliding tray would be a novel touch in RC... pretty cool with the dock mates... ehhhh.. check this out!!  :-)   Dennis.   Footnote, in about a week, I will be taking a detour on model projects to build Mantua - Panart Battle Station... fighting cannon section model for an 18th century fighting ship of the line.  This kit is amazing for detail in mostly wood.  I'm doing this as a Christmas gift for a dear friend who is suffering from Parkinsons and has a passion for the old British man-o-war ships.  I will be posting a separate build posting on this sight when things get started.  The Lexington will have to wait a month or two.  Of course, a number of you folks have more than one project going at the same time.   Cheers!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 07, 2017, 10:10:24 pm
Arresting gear  on the forward portion of the flightdeck have been mounted, as well as the Windbreak.  I chose to show the windbreak in the raised position.  I am working on the aft flight deck section this weekend, installing safety netting.  I will begin a new project on Monday next week, as a separate post, which I will do now.  I'm still here, just changing venues for a month or two.  Cheers... Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 07, 2017, 10:10:51 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: warspite on October 08, 2017, 03:09:26 pm
Forward deck????? {:-{ {:-{ {:-{

did they land aircraft aimed directly at the ships bow, normal convention was and is to land with the ships direction of travel, as this would be contrary to normal practice
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 08, 2017, 05:02:01 pm
Good observation sir.  What they did do was offer the ability to land either at the bow or at the stern depending on damage to either end or not.  If the stern was damaged to prevent landing, they put the ship in reverse and landed at the bow.  Hence the arresting cables are reversed bow and stern as to how they are rigged in their respective sheves.  Something I need to check out is if they retracted the arresting cables completely when launching aircraft or did they roll over the cables laying flat on deck.  I'll have to get back to you on that one.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 09, 2017, 04:12:23 am
As an addendum, this note from Gold Medal Models PE upscale set.  Historical note: when Lexington's forward flight deck was widened in 1936, she was fitted with 8 arresting gear pendants forward of the palisades in addition to eight pendants and four barricades aft.  This gave the ship the ability to launch and recover her aircraft while steaming astern in the event her aft flight deck were damaged in battle. (re. "The lexington Class Carriers" by Robert C. Stern, copywrite 1993 Naval Instiute Press, Annapolis, MD 21202 USA, pg. 114.).  Have to admit, I tried to find backup on the internet as I do not recall "ever" hearing of any aircraft carrier "steaming astern" due to battle damage in order to recover aircraft.  But, it sure made good sense to me, so I have dutifully included such arresting gear on my model.  As a footnote, I did serve aboard the USS Ranger CVA-61 in 1970 as a Radioman 2nd class petty officer, just prior to my discharge from the US Navy.  We always went in the "forward direction" :-))  Dennnis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: rnli12 on October 09, 2017, 07:15:07 am
Dennis,

Coming on a real treat, hope your on the mend.

Regards,

Rich
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on October 09, 2017, 05:43:29 pm
Thank you Rich, I continue to be well and come awake every morning.  A real blessing, let me tell ya..... O0  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on October 09, 2017, 09:43:53 pm
Good to hear it Dennis. Your Build logs are always very informative. I have learnt lots since you started.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 07, 2017, 05:45:38 am
Ok, back in the saddle with the Lexington.  I wanted to show some detail that only I will know about and now you folks get to know too.. yippie!  My PE upscale kit proivdes bridge detail to be included in the model.  The Lexington did not have a steering wheel, but was controlled with a lever action much the same as a trolly car.  The pieces are so small that it was difficult to photograph clearly enough, but they are there none-the-less.  All to be incased in the bridge structure, so that unless you are looking very closely through one of the windows, you would not see them.  So there.. no you know.... secret is out! ;)   Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Akira on December 08, 2017, 01:22:22 am
I believe that all US carriers up to and including USS Yorktown CV-10 (Essex Class) were designed and equipped to allow for over the bow landings with the ship running astern. See the attached photo. As well, these carriers, from Wasp thru the second Yorktown (CV-10) were equipped with a hanger deck catapult that launched aircraft laterally.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 10, 2017, 01:40:33 am
Forward Island is completed and installed.  Hmmmm, just something un-natural about landing from the bow with the ship moving astern.. that is proof they did it.. tks for posting picture.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Akira on December 10, 2017, 12:44:56 pm
I believe the photo was of Yorktown during shakedown. Great build, Your Opti-Visor must be putting in overtime.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 10, 2017, 08:54:09 pm
The crash barrier alone is a work of etched art, even from this distance!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 10, 2017, 09:07:17 pm
Intially, I thought it was crash barrier of sorts, but then found out that it was called a Palisades (Windbreak).  Historically were used to protect early, lightweight aircraft from  high winds when they were stowed on the flight deck and the ship was steaming at high speeds. (taken from Gold Medal Models, Loren Perry)  Yes, the PE is amazingly small and delicate.  I had the choice of have it laying flat or with the "fingers" in the "up" position.  I chose the latter for visual interest.  I am discovering the the PE upscale kit is a real plus and well worth the cost. Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 11, 2017, 07:52:38 pm
This is a great example of the kind of detail that Photo-etch provides.  I'm making 9 of these 20mm Oerlikon anti-aircraft guns.  PE is providing a new gun shield, a gun sight, shoulder rests and adjusting wheel.  Pretty delicate work that takes alot of time and a steady hand.  Still loads of fun.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 11, 2017, 09:52:43 pm
Assuming those squares on your cutting board are half inch, then that work is on a par with a watchmaker for delicacy.

Interesting about the wind break Dennis, I didn't think of the wind issues on early aircraft.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 13, 2017, 03:35:10 am
Me neither, guess it was a problem early on.  They even used the perimeter netting as wind breaks, as they could be raised and lowered.  I am showing some of the nets to be in the 90 deg raised position.  I met my match in part size when I installed oars onto the life rafts.  The oars had to be "nipped" out of my PE sheet and I could just hardly see them even with my magnify loop.  In fact, I can hardly see them on the life rafts.  So, why did I do it.... I dunno.  Working now on the aft island/funnel stack... tons of detail on that beast.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 14, 2017, 03:18:33 am
This is about as small as the PE parts get.  I've given a good reference so you can get an idea of size... thats the tip of a #11 xacto blade.  The part is the handle and gun sight for a 50 cal. AA gun.  The part is as it comes off the PE sheet.  the target is folded 90 degs before mounting to the gun.  The gun has the part mounted. Only have to make 12 of these babies for this application.  Steady as she goes.   ;)  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 14, 2017, 11:30:59 pm
Delicate isn't the word Dennis  :-)
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 15, 2017, 08:33:07 pm
Screws are mounted at last.  The plastic ones supplied in the kit were ok, but incorrectly 4 bladed.  The Lexi had 3 blades.  My upscale kit provided PE blades, but I found impossible to work with as they were way too thin and did not fit my shafts and I destroyed two attempting to drill out a larger center hole.  I scrapped that idea, went on-line and found some nice lost wax cast brass screws from a company called G-Factor Models (gfactormodels@aol.com) at 1/350.  Nice quality, but difficult to dismount from the sprue... delicate filing did the trick.  They are correct in left and right hand pitch.  A little spendy at $23 US including ship.  Worth it in my humble opinion.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 15, 2017, 08:33:38 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 15, 2017, 08:34:11 pm
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 15, 2017, 09:54:22 pm
How much is a handbag in comparison with a set of these props? I say that you are having fun whilst recovering, so it is money well spent Dennis.

Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Bob K on December 15, 2017, 10:23:13 pm
Beautiful, and so tiny.  You are a Master at miniatures Dennis.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 17, 2017, 04:45:05 am
Things are moving along well now.  The aft funnel island is completed and mounted to the deck.  That was sure a massive structure to contain mainly four funnels.  Am amazed at just how many AA guns on that ship... from 5" to .50 cal.  I would think that the Lexi could throw some serious lead into the skys.  I believe history says that she was lost at the battle of Corel Sea. Bombed and torpedoed, she caught fire and could not be saved.  A destroyer was ordered to sink her.  Pretty sad.  She did earn two battle stars and certainly saw action.  As I gaze at the model, her lines are beautiful and unusual.... started as a battle cruiser hull converted to the seccond aircraft carrier for the US Navy in the early 20's.  Yorktown was her sistership.  I am closing in on building aircraft and may have to order more kits as the main kit does not supply much in the way of aircraft for the model.  i ordered a nice wood framed case and brass pedestals to mount.  The USS Ranger is next in the line-up and the kit is waiting over there in the corner.  The paint scheme alone will be stunning if I can pull it off.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 17, 2017, 04:45:42 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 17, 2017, 04:46:12 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 17, 2017, 04:46:40 am
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Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: rnli12 on December 17, 2017, 05:48:24 am
Dennis,

Good to see your progress, looking great  %% .

Rich
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 22, 2017, 12:50:36 am
finished the (3) SBD-3 aircraft minus decals.  Turns out the decals that came from the kit are no good.  I ordered a new set from an independent outfit, decided it was not worth the hassle to go through Trumpeter for replacement.  Pesky little buggers.  This 1/350 scale is right on the edge of my ability to see the parts, even with magnification. Age I guess.  I will probably wind up ordering additional aircraft for this model.  Nine that come with the kit is very minimal.  Its another way they make money I suppose.  I have been trying to find out if I can convert a model kit of the USS Independence CVA-62 to my old ship, the USS Ranger CVA-61.  Kits no longer exist, or were even made for the Ranger at 1/350.  I see where the Indepence was produced, but appears that kit has been discontinued.  Since they are both Forrestal Class carriers, built one right after the other, they might be similar enough to just rebadge to get the Ranger.  For that matter, maybe any Forrestal class carrier would work if I can find a kit.  Just curious if any of you folks might know.  Tks, Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 25, 2017, 03:54:44 am
Bearcat with wings folded, coming up aft elevator.  Those life preservers on the aft island are photo etch (little less than 2mm in width).. one of those went "ping" never to be seen again... I hate that.  Still building aircraft and adding railing.  My decal sheet was defective for the aircraft and am waiting still for new ones.  Model is nearly finished.  Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year!  Cheers!  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 27, 2017, 06:30:39 pm
The one biggest thing I have learnt about warships is that they are rarely identical. Even if built by the same yard, things we have to consider via research are developments in radar arrays, communications antennae, weapons fit and quantity, improvements in hull shape, variations in deck furniture etc etc etc.

If you are lucky, both ships were fitted out at a time when there was a little stability in technological developments meaning that they wil have been similar.

Anyhow, your CV2 is lovely and can only be better festooned with aircraft!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 27, 2017, 06:51:49 pm
Yes sir, you bring up a very good point.  I always try to do a little research before and while I am doing a build and if I can find a correction to an error from the kit manufacturer (which there are many).... if I can handle the change, I'll try to do it.  I'm certianly not a rivet counter, but I like to think the model I am building is somewhat accurate.  Take the fore and aft islands for instance, I came across an outfit on-line who is selling a 3D modeled replacement for my kit islands that is supposed to be more accurate. Well, when I compared what they had to the kit, I could not see that much difference, plus, they wanted a ton of money for their product. So, I passed on that one.  I am enjoying and appreciating the Gold Medals upscale kit in PE.... having ladders and railings that look to scale and real is worth the price to me.  And of course, I came across this link: http://www.modelshipwrights.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=2191&page=7  This gentleman has really gone the extra mile to correct every mistake made by Trumpeter.  I am way past making corrections at this point and am not gong to lose sleep over missing some rivets, but you have to admit, this man has produced one beautiful model of the Lexi.  Making a statemnet that they never folded the wings on the Bearcat is a bit much.  Of course they did, if the aircraft wings could be folded, they folded them.  I chose to paint my cat in dark blue and I know that is wrong, sorry, I just like the look of that aircraft in dark blue.  Gonna have to forgive me.  Most folks won't know the difference.  What can I say.  For all of us, I think we all try to build the best model we can and that is what its all about in my books.  Happy New Year!  Dennis ok2
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 27, 2017, 08:43:40 pm
My ethos, as you know, is: It's your hobby enjoy it how you want to.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: JimG on December 27, 2017, 08:51:36 pm
The aircraft you show is not a Bearcat but a Hellcat. The Hellcats were designed to fold the wings to the rear whle Bearcats folded the outer 1/3 of the wing vertically. (One very unusual feature was that the hing was deliberatly made too weak to take the maximum g load to save weight. Pull too much G in a dogfight and one of your wingtips breaks off, explosive bolts then blow the other wing tip off leaving a much shorter span aircraft. Hopefully the pilot could then fly this back to his carrier where new tips could be bolted on ready for the next dogfight. )

Jim
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 27, 2017, 10:13:01 pm
Jim, I humbly stand corrected.  I get confused sometimes.  She is the F4F-4 Grummand Wildcat and did have the wings that twisted and folded back.  I have chosen to show one with folded wings taking an elevator ride up from her hanger below.  I'm also aware that the British Royal Airforce used the Wildcat.  Now, the Bearcat F6F was a different beast entirely.  I was fortunate enough to be close up and personal to one here at our local flight museum in Bellingham, Washington.  She was sold to some Microsoft exec. a number of years ago.  Our museum found it too costly to carry the insurance required to fly her.  So many wonderful WW2 fighter aircraft on all sides.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 27, 2017, 10:20:07 pm
See, Ii told you I get confused easily.  So sri about that.  The F6F is the Hellcat, the F4F is the Wildcat, the F8F is the Bearcat.  Just too many "cats".. yikes! :embarrassed:  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: JimG on December 28, 2017, 12:25:14 pm
I have seen all of the Grumman Cats fly at various Duxford Flying legends displays. On several occasions they flew the Wildcat, Hellcat and Tigercat in a formation display. The Bearcat was the final solo display for several years and always gave a spirited show (needless to say the breakoff wing tips were disabled). This display was while the final Balbo formation of all of the aircraft they could put in the air was getting ready. I think the  best Balbo I saw was 26 single and twin engined aircraft flying over in formation.

Jim
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 29, 2017, 02:11:58 am
I always try to do something different with my models.  This time, the idea came across to have one of those F4F's with gear up scream down the length of the flight deck at about 40ft.  Now, I do not know for certain that those WW2 pilots pulled a "Top Gun" prank in front of the captain, but I would like to think that it might have happened and I don't recall ever seeing one done on a static model. But, of course there is nothing new under the sun and I'm sure I'm not the first. So, I'm going to do it.  Still waiting for my decals to finish things off, but here is the aircraft, resting on the flight deck, prop spinning and gear up.  I will mount the bird on a thin wire, which will be strong enough to hold it up there and difficult to see at this scale.  I'll be sure to post as soon as that is accomplished. Dennis :o
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 29, 2017, 03:40:22 pm
I reckon the pilot would have been grounded for less unless sanctioned for a publicity shoot perhaps for recruiting. If it crashed and put the flight deck out of action for even a few minutes this would be serious. If you had a few figures looking like press photographers then it would make a little story!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: raflaunches on December 29, 2017, 05:23:29 pm
I believe that American ships were more disciplinarian than their RN counterparts but flying at 40ft perhaps would have gotten him to buy some drinks or a minor charge on his record in the RN but there are plenty of pilots in the air force and navy who got away for flying lower and perhaps more 'reckless' than a fast fly-by. Perhaps the biggest difference may have been the fact that RN carriers had armoured decks and their USN cousins didn't.
After the war when jets became the norm all forces became very self aware with flight safety due to the higher speeds and the more explosive fuel!
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 29, 2017, 06:06:29 pm
It would be a serious rule breaker, of that, I am certain.  I could have the model flying just off to the side of the flight deck, over water and maybe get a similar effect  D.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 30, 2017, 05:21:58 am
Penguins indeed!  The "farm" is growing.  Four more aircraft to build from the kit and then its order more to fill the deck if I want to.  I believe they had most of the squad up on deck prior to launch, the carrier deck was pretty clear for the return of the "flight" for landing, rest below. But, I think for cruising, the carrier deck was mostly clear of aircraft. What comes to mind is the USS Hornet when she was loaded at all times during transit and prior to launch with B-25 Bomber for Tokyo raid... what a sight that must have been. The Hornet is on my bucket list to build along the way depicting her just before that raid... there is a ton of kit and enhancement kits avail for that build, either in 1/200 or 1/350.  I'm thinking about doing the 1/350 scale to try to keep the model size under control.  Question: what am I going to do with all of the carrier models.  I had a thought about contacting our local museum here in Bellingham, Wash. to see if they would be interested in doing a historical display?  As it is, I have cases of models on shelves stacking up my walls in this room and where ever else my dear wife will let me display them in the house.  Can't help it, its a sickness I think, but I'm sure having fun doing it.  Lancaster's Maritime Museum.... ;)  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 30, 2017, 05:22:58 am
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: warspite on December 30, 2017, 08:16:41 am
40 ft over the deck could be a wave off rather than a top gunner.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 30, 2017, 02:21:42 pm
I could take her down in a steep dive, pull up and level at 25ft and scream across the deck at full throttle, contrails coming off the wing tips, pull her up after I pass the bow and the a nice Victory Roll to finish her off.  Yea, your probably right, I'd just get a wave off with brig time after...... D. :o
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on December 30, 2017, 02:45:29 pm
Have you room in your garden for a 'Carrier viewing shed' Dennis? Line it well for insulation and make sure there are many shelves for your collection plus those yet to be built, and have room for a comfy chair and a beer fridge for when you are looking at your hard work.

Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on December 30, 2017, 02:56:33 pm
I do have my dear wife's "greenhouse" in the back yard.  It would have to be insulated well and heated, what with temps we have encountered over the past few days.  Just had a nice ice storm hit the North county last night.  Strangest weather I've seen in a long time... walk out into an ice storm, everything is covered in ice, drive less than a mile away and its a warm 54 deg wind and rain.... crazy stuff.  Sri, getting off track... carrier models at 1/350 scale yield a case size that is over 30" most often.  I can barily handle this scale, 1/700 would be beyond my ability to build.. don't know how folks do it.  I have sold a few and given  some away as gifts.  I know I'm not the only one who is a prolific model maker.  I'd be curious to know what others do with what they build.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 02, 2018, 09:32:50 pm
working on the last of the kit aircraft.  This one is the TBD Devastator.  Interesting bomber.  When first introduced, she was the most advanced naval aircraft at the time (1934 I think).... unfortunately, she did not bod well in combat.  They lost many of her in the battle of midway... more to her performance and bad torpedo design.  I really like the design of this aircraft and would like to build a 1:48 scale kit model.  Lots of interesting details.  Which got me to thinking that it would be fun to build a 1:48 scale model of each of the different aircraft used on the carriers that I am building...  talk about madness  {:-{ ... but at least they don't take up much room 222mm.  I'm hopeless.  Here are a few shots.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 02, 2018, 09:33:27 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 02, 2018, 09:36:00 pm
The last picture is of 3 Dauntless SBD-2 and one Devastator TBD.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on January 02, 2018, 09:40:06 pm
They didn't arf pack the planes in didn't they! I like all your aircraft Dennis. I salute your patience in making many of the same machines.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 02, 2018, 10:44:32 pm
Tks.... its been fun.  I shoulda mentioned that the aircraft are just randomly sitting on the deck in no particular order.  I need to study the best way to present when I'm ready to glue them down.  I am still waiting for my decals.  The kit decals were bad, I ordered an after-market set and they could not provide what I needed, so I've ordered again from another outfit, they are on their way Priority Mail.  I need those decals to finish up.  Also, I'm considering adding some of the antenna rigging, but not all... hard to see at this scale.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 06, 2018, 04:17:22 am
Ok, here is my F4F screaming over the flight deck.  As decals are finally going on and rigging is done on the carrier... or as far as I'm going to take it at this scale.  Model is in the final phase now, soon I'll be mounting her and installing in case and moving onto my next project, which is the USS Ranger CV-4. Oh the joy! :-)   Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 06, 2018, 04:18:13 am
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 06, 2018, 04:19:01 am
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:49:27 pm
Gentlemen,  The model is finished.  Just need to insert the glass and enclose the case.  Onward to the USS Ranger CV-4.  Cheers  ok2  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:49:59 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:50:31 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:50:58 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:51:25 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:51:56 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:52:39 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 09, 2018, 06:53:16 pm
more.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Bob K on January 09, 2018, 07:05:47 pm
Looks beautiful.  Excellent craftsmanship, and at such a tiny scale too   :-))
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on January 09, 2018, 07:48:16 pm
Another stunning chapter in the development of naval aviation. She's beautiful Dennis, I cannot wait to see CV4 on the go  :-))
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Martin [Admin] on January 09, 2018, 09:08:07 pm
 
Hi Denice,
 Lovely job!

Question: do you know why the Lexington class smoke stacks was so enormous?

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d7/USS_Lexington_%28CV-2%29_launching_Martin_T4M_torpedo_planes%2C_in_1931_%28NH_82117%29.jpg/1280px-USS_Lexington_%28CV-2%29_launching_Martin_T4M_torpedo_planes%2C_in_1931_%28NH_82117%29.jpg)
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 10, 2018, 05:35:32 pm
Hi Martin, that is a good question and have wondered that myself.  This huge exhaust stack seemed out of place.  The only thing I could find out on her history was that she had 16 boilers providing steam for her electric turbines.  There had to have been alot of stack pipe venting, all going up one side of the ship.  Unlike the USS Ranger CV-4 I am starting, which had her three stacks on each side exiting the upper sides of the flight deck and being able to pivot down while flight ops were in progress.  Not the case with the Lexington. So, they had to hide and streamline those stacks somehow and that's what they did.  Mind you, the Lexi was a converted Battle Cruiser hull to aircraft carrier, where-as the Ranger was built from the keel up as an aircraft carrier.  We are talking an evolutionary process here in ship design and I will talk about and you will see on my next build project how the Ranger, which was in a class all its own, more like the USS Langley in design, but with an Island added later on.  Stay tuned.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 10, 2018, 05:55:19 pm
Another side note.  As I attemped to assemble the case for my model, After  mounting the model to the case base with epoxy!!, to my horror, I soon discovered that the two side panels and top panel of plexiglass were cut oversize on the sides and undersize on the top.  I could trim the side panels myself, but he top panel is lost.  So, I called Amazon for help and I must say, they came through like a champ for me.  They gave me two options: 1. I could return the case and they would provide a new case at no charge, 2. I could have a local shop cut out new panels and send the bill to Amazon and will refund my money for that.  I have chosen the latter to resolve the issue. So, a small delay and the problem is fixed.  Can't beat that!  Dennis :-)
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: ballastanksian on January 10, 2018, 09:46:14 pm
That is definitly good news Dennis.
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Martin [Admin] on January 10, 2018, 11:05:08 pm
 
Side note about stability & ballast, Wikipeada says:
The ships carried a maximum of 6,688 long tons (6,795 t) of fuel oil, but only 5,400 long tons (5,500 t) of that was usable as the rest had to be retained as ballast in the port fuel tanks to offset the weight of the island and main guns.

... i wonder when they realised that .... about 30 seconds after freeing the mornings?!    ok2
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: dlancast on January 11, 2018, 01:10:08 am
Very good point Martin, I did read somewhere about "trim" on the Lexi.  Ballast would have been a main factor, but you would think that they would have known or expected that during the design stage.  I'm thinking it was purely a cosmetic issue, to cover up all those stacks and make her look pretty?? At least they took advantage of that high perch to mount 25, .50cal. AA guns.  Wonder if we will ever know for sure now.  Dennis
Title: Re: U.S.S. Lexington CV-2
Post by: Martin [Admin] on January 11, 2018, 03:49:13 am
 
Any rerecords of her performance in high winds?
 She must have sailed like a square rigger!!