Wrapping up the Proctor Mercedes kit. A few pics below. Tried to set the valves in the correct relative timing based on photos of the Smithsonian Albatros engine. I made the spark plug connectors from tubing, flattened on one end and filed into a hook that fits under the cap on the spark plug. Glued the wires into the round end. The plug wire guides are bolted onto the water jackets using 2-56 studs (nuts on the outside) and straps made from the aluminun in the kit. I have a few dowels left over that I'm not sure where they were supposed to go! Generally I didn't like the way the tubing in the kit looked for hose clamp connections so I made hose clamps from card stock and brass wire (for the screw).

I have a wire wheel kit from AZM that I picked up from a fellow modeler. The tubing for the tire is VERY heavy. I may try casting one from silicon per prior suggestions and the article on the AMA website. Any other suggestions?

Next step is to pick a color scheme so I can finish the tail planes, install the running rigging and get a measure on how much weight it will take to balance - and pick an appropriate motor that will fit under the Merc. I bought some aluminum wire to make the radiator but it will be too heavy so I'm thinking styrene rods or tubes is the way to go - that rad has a huge bunch of 'em.

Incidentally - I was looking around for thinned leather that could take the pleating folds for the cockpit combing as it appears on the full scale and happened upon a patent leather jacket for $5 in a thrift shop that is really thin material, looks like leather, and is gasoline proof!