Enterprise by MDG - Constructo

[MDG]

Good day all,

 

I've been browsing the forums for the past couple of weeks as I begin my Enterprise build (my first). First off, thanks to all for the contributions, it's already been very helpful to me.

 

I've got to set myself up to transfer the pictures I've taken thus far into this thread, hopefully I'll have time this weekend.

 

I've been reading through the many other Enterprise build logs but haven't been able to get a clear answer on something, I was hoping to get some feedback. I'm close to starting in on the hull planking, and my question is this: have most people done a second planking using the veneer? As well, what is commonly used to hide the nail holes once they are removed, by that I mean any specific brand/color well matched to the wood? I can assume this is a relatively moot point if the veneer is used ...

 

Finally, are most people using water to soak their hull planks? I've seen the references to ammonia but not sure how widespread this is?

 

Thanks all, looking forward to posting more as I progress,

 

Mark

[wq3296]

Greetings Mark,

 

I built the Enterprise by Constructo several years ago and it is still one of my favorites. I have never used ammonia, preferring water and steam to bend wood. I have read recently that ammonia will actually weaken the wood because the ammonia destroys the wood fibers. In my opinion, if you can't induce the wood to bend with water and/or steam forget about it. Plus, ammonia bottles come with warning labels.

 

wq3296 
 

[Stevinne]

I built the Enterprise back before Constructo modified the kit. It was my first build, and while the instructions back then left a lot to be desired, I think it came out very nicely.

The veneer covered any nail or pin holes used to secure the first level of planking.

I used water on both the first and second planking (and on subsequent builds). I went to a thrift shop and bought an old electric coffee maker, and I had no problem bending the wood. On the second layer, I'd soak the wood, applyglue and then use my plank bender to heat the plank until the wood "took." I found this process pretty easy.

I've never used ammonia, since I could toss the water or spill it all over my work bench without worries.

[src]

Mark,

Welcome to MSW and the Enterprise Build Club! She is a fun Lady to get to know, but like all relationships the instruction manual is a bit lacking in some areas.

 

I have been building this kit for about 4-1/2 years now (I might even finish it one day  ) When I did my planking I used a combination of hot water/steam and brute force - Not recommended, it draws out the Splinter Demons and aggravates the Gremlin. I have never tried the ammonia rout before; it reacts with tannic acid and may darken the wood. Everybody here who has tried it says they have not seen any color change in their experience. Experiment first.

 

Out of the box She builds into a very nice ship, although there are several areas that can do with some TLC. Regardless, enjoy your build time, if/when you have questions there are plenty of members here who will be more than happy to help with advice and encouragement, I know I wouldnt have the build I have today if it wasnt for the people here at MSW.

 

Sam

[AntonyUK]

Hi Mark.

Welcome to MSW.

 

I use water(cold) to wet the plank and then I use a large wattage soldering iron with my home made bit on the end approx 25mm dia.

Just wet the planks and run the iron over one side and when warm bend the plank into shape. You will notice the planks trying to curl up.

Bend the planks just a little bit more then needed. And let them dry

Never had any issues with plank bending using this method.

 

Regards Antony.