Hi yachthead, I have built several Graupner kits, the instructions are excellent and there are translations for all of the German used.
Just look through all of the plans and written stuff and you will find them. The referencing system is excellent and each of the circled numbers on the plans has a translation.
It is best to put to one side the other foreign language writing and concentrate on the English.
I do recommend that you read the instructions before construction.
I bought a Graupner yacht in auction, part made and the builder had just fitted the obvious parts and then glued the unfinished mast in place, he had just not read the instructions. But it was my gain!
I understand a little German but have not found that necessary to construct a Graupner kit.
Good luck, but do read the instructions first, as somebody went to a lot of trouble to produce them. (are you getting the message?) If there is a problem with anything missing I can give you an email address within Graupner that will help.
regards Roy