Return to the BUILD

In this issue, we will be connecting the first two sections of the metal hull at the port bow.

Contents

Parts

Materials: The two Port Hull Sections are metal, but the Name Plate and Connecting Panel are plastic.

Tools

• Phillips-head Screwdriver (appears to be PH0 sized)

Magazine

• Giant of the Sea – The Titanic Tragedy
• A Date with Destiny – J. Bruce Ismay, the Owner
• Life on Board – Haute Cuisine, Italian Style
• Step-by-Step Instructions

Build

Starting to Assemble the Hull

I went back and forth on this decision for a while, but finally came to the conclusion that I was not a fan of the maroon color used on this model for the hull’s anti-fouling paint. On White Star Line ships (and others) of the time, historians generally feel this paint was more of a salmon pink color. Thankfully, I had some Vallejo Anti-Fouling Red 71.442 paint that came with my Vallejo Titanic Colors set (see Issue 1) that is incredibly close to the color I wanted. Therefore, I airbrushed my entire Port Hull Section (Bow, Lower) in this new, more accurate color. Once dry, I then applied a topcoat of clear Vallejo Satin Varnish 70.522 to give it a slight shine and protect the color layer:

Step 1

Fit the rounded tabs of the Port Hull Section (Bow, Lower) over these posts of the Port Hull Section (Bow, Upper), as shown:

Secure these Port Hull Sections together with two (2) AM screws.

NOTE: Oddly, the screws included with this partwork have part numbers and type designations that do not match. For example, what is listed as part AM is described as 6×4 mm PM screws. When I measured this screw, it was actually 2.6×4 mm, so I have no idea what they are referring to. Since the instructions refer to the screws by their part number (AM in this case), that is what I will refer to throughout my build.

This is also the first of many friendly reminders to try using 3-in-One Oil on all screws going into metal:

Step 2

Fit the Connecting Panel to the rear edge of the Port Hull Sections, as shown:

Secure the Connecting Panel to the Port Hull Sections with four (4) AM screws:

It is my understanding that the insides of the ‘hawse’ pipes (anchor chain holes) in the hull were likely painted with anti-fouling paint. Therefore, I used a paint brush to add my new color to the interior of the forward hawse pipe hole, as shown:

UPDATE: While completing Pack 2, I came back and painted the inside of the hawse pipe on the side of this bow panel as well:

Thoughts

On the real Titanic, the hull plates were layered or ‘clinked’ to each other and this detail is nicely captured on these Hull Sections. However, I did notice that the portholes on these Hull Sections are solid, which is odd. Other builders are drilling these out, but I do not plan to go that far on my model. As for the unused Name Plate, keep it stored safely for now.

Next Up

Issue 3 – Engine Cylinders/Piston and Connecting Rods/Columns/Stop Plates/Crankshaft/Cog, Smoke Generator/Tester