Initially, this just started off as an experiment in dowel construction and I considered stopping there if things didn’t work out. But I was surprised with how easy it was and also with how straight the resulting structure was. Now that I’ve added 1/64 ply gussets the joints are solid. Of course the 49g basic bamboo frame is still extremely flexible. The gussets also helped with that but this will definitely require functional rigging. I’ve found some Kevlar-based fishing line that should do the job perfectly. The Kevlar line will be threaded through holes in the gussets, then wrapped around the dowel, and finally locked in with CA. I expect the final structure to be stronger than traditional model construction.

A word (or two, or three) on my building philosophy for the Dr.I. Typically, modelers (and most kit manufacturers) start with a standard model structure, which is then modify here and there to accommodate features of the original aircraft. I’ll be approaching the build from the opposite direction. Since I’m not building from plans but rather technical drawings, I’ve decided just to stick with the original structure to the greatest degree possible, modifying only when it seems absolutely necessary. This may turn out to be naïve, but I’m also taking this opportunity to be as “experimental” as possible. I want to try out new techniques, methods, and materials for scale construction. For example, I’ll be using bamboo for the rudder and possibly also elevator and would like to try wire trailing edges on the wings and maybe even functional aileron cables. We’ll see.

By January I hope also to be working on the prototype for the CD ScaleDesigns Albatros CI kit so the Fokker DrI will be a side project and I don’t intend to work (so) obsessively on it. It’ll be done, when it’s done.

First question: What size engine would suit a 1/6 scale triplane with a wingspan of about 47 inches? I’m thinking I’ll use my standard Saito 56.