'Rata' revisited

[Tapcho]

Polikarpov I-16 'Rata' in 1/72 scale by Salvador Ortega Cabrera.

I first stumbled to this fine 'skeleton' model in 2014. We had here a kind of a 'group build' in Getter1's thread. Papermate took part in it too. It was fun but I wasn't too excited about the outcome of my model, painting it went wrong, poor color choices on my behalf. I once built a plastic version of Rata too.

Anyway I took another try with Salvador's designs and built his SE5a and that went much better. The thread is still here but the pictures are gone because I at that time used Photobucket but now have given that account up. I took two fresh pics of that model here to show you another example of Salvador's fabulous work.

Idea to build this I-16 once again came to mind when I found a Soviet fighter plane instrument panel clock in my late uncle's estate a couple of years ago. It's a war trophy from our Winter War (downed planes were looted and all possible parts were sold as war memorabilia to the frontline soldiers) and it originally belonged to my grandfather (whom I never met) who served as captain in the eastern front (well all the frontlines we ever had or could imagine located at the Eastern border, even today). So since these clocks were used in I-16s too, why not try to work up a presentation combining both – the clock with an airy white skeleton model of an I-16. That's the idea, will it work we'll see.

I got all the parts cut out and I'm ready to proceed. I follow the designers instructions and Getter1's thread but will probably make some alterations as well. More to follow.

Tappi

PS Be sure to visit Salvado's blog and check out his models, there are plenty. Salvador is a member here too.

[Don Boose]

Fascinating stuff. You did a great job on that skeleton SE-5, and your Ratas look good to me, too.

I miss G1. Haven't seen him in the Forum for a long time.

Good luck on the instrument dial/skeleton I-16 project!

Don

[Rata]

When I first saw the title of this thread I thought to expect a knock on my door at some point.
Interesting and unusual project Tappi. Hope it goes well mate.
That I-16 clock must be a prized possession for you. I assume it's not still running (though being Russian made it may very well be!)- have you looked at getting a clock expert to get it to run?

[rmks2000]

I admire your skill to cut out all those little sections so cleanly.

[Tapcho]

Thanks Don and I admit this is a bit 'walk down the memory lane' project for me. I miss G1 too like so many other presently absent members. Lets hope they all return someday.

Rata, I had a hunch I'd get your attention with the title. Nothing ominous though, trust me. The clock is in perfect working condition, it has a several days walk with one wind and keeps time accurately. A real gem I must say.

rmks2000, thanks. It's just a question of patience. Rather than cut I stab in very small increments. Like a sewing machine. Time consuming but worth it.

Parts for the engine all 75 of them. Assembly starts now. ;-)

Tappi

[gomidefilho]

Amazing work!

The stripped models of Salvador Ortega is a great challenge! Congatulations!

[Tapcho]

Thanks Péricles! They are a challenge for sure but if you get past the cutting it gets easier. If I recall right. The engine is now done. I left some parts out just to clarify it visually and those were the exhaust tubes at the back. Motor went together as planned and it's diameter is 16 mm.

Tappi

[Philip]

Even though I've been hanging around here for some time I still get surprised by other folks imagination and inventiveness.

[Tapcho]

I so agree Philip, what would we mere builders do without the fabulous model designers.

Tappi

[T haf]

The engine looks great, especially for how small it is. well done.