| Image Comments |
| SteveM | 08-Mar-11 10:36 |
| This being my second Dumas kit I was prepared for incorrect and incomplete instructions, but I wasn't ready for so many errors in the plans. |
| SteveM | 08-Mar-11 10:43 |
| The fuselage is built using the plans just above the 6" machinist's scale, showing parts P and Q to be 3" on center. Below you see they are about 3-5/16" between centers. The plan for the battery hatch uses the 3-5/16" spacing so if you built it to plans it won't fit into the fuselage. Further complicating matters is that the width of the hatch in the bottom plan is 2-3/8" and in the hatch plan they have you build the latch tabs for a 2-7/16" opening. As if that wasn't enough, the hatch opening is built up to a thickness of 1/8", but the tabs on the battery hatch are for a 1/16" opening! At this point it'll be a miracle if I can keep my disgust in check long enough to finish instead of binning it. DD, I have a Dumas kit number 501 F-4D Phantom that is all yours if you want it. |
| David Duckett | 08-Mar-11 13:29 |
| Thanks, but I'll pass. The one from Todays Hobbies was enough for me. |
| SteveM | 08-Mar-11 16:10 |
| Ok, but I'll still check with you should I happen upon an extra Guillow's B-29.
In case I didn't post it previously, I'm tracking all of the errors that I find in this kit here: http://swm1.com/models/dumas_dh89.html |
| moostang51 | 08-Mar-11 17:01 |
| I saw that page when I typed in Dumas 1815 plan errors. The initials "swm" sought of gave it away. Basically it seems like you have to scratch build to make it rc compatible. I know it's a PITA but you'll be giving a big heads up to future builders and maybe Dumas will take heed and make the necessary adjustments. |
| SteveM | 08-Mar-11 17:10 |
| You know, it did occur to me that some of what I'm having to do is like scratch building, but when scratch building you generally have a solid set of plans. This just doesn't meet the quality I expect from a kit and the assembly has a ton of weak butt joints so I'm starting to go back and add gussets so they'll stop falling apart on me. |
| moostang51 | 08-Mar-11 17:30 |
| I consider scratching your head, "scratch building." You could use 1/64 or 1/32 baltic ply for the gussets. Hell of a lot stronger and more gluing area and it'll still keep the weight down. Keep at it, it looks great. |
