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Friday, August 27, 2010 - 08:57 AM UTC
Loon Models is a subsidiary to Roll Models.com. Loon Models manufactures resin 1:32 'Master Series' Correction / Conversion / Detail Sets have mostly been armour related subjects. This (LO32006) and its sister set LO32007 are resin parts applicable to Roden's 1:32 Siemens Schuckert D.III. Set LO32006 backdates the kit to the earliest production issues first release for front line operations and testing to JG II in 1918.
Siemens Schuckert D.III early conversion including early full-cowling (2 items), engine brace & supports, unvented spinner, early wingtips & ailerons and early tail pieces for Roden kits.

The S.S.W D.III was a development of their earlier D.IIc prototype. The D.III was an equal-span sesquiplane powered by a 160 hp (119 kW) Siemens-Halske Sh.III conter rotary engine. Idflieg placed an order for 20 aircraft in December 1917, followed by a second order of 30 aircraft in February 1918.

Approximately 41 D.IIIs were delivered to frontline units between April and May 1918. Most aircraft were supplied to Jagdgeschwader II, (Jastas 12, 13 15 &19.) whose pilots were enthusiastic about the new aircraft's handling and rate of climb. (This version is covered by the Loon Models set LO32006.) After only seven to 10 hours of service, however, the Sh.III engines started showing serious problems with overheating and piston seizure. The problem was later traced to the Voltol mineral oil that was used to replace the now-scarce castor oil. Furthermore, the close-fitting engine cowling provided inadequate cooling to the engine.

In late May 1918, Jagdgeschwader II replaced its D.III aircraft with the Fokker D.VII. The remaining D.III aircraft were returned to the Siemens-Schuckert factory, where they were retrofitted with new Sh.IIIa engines, an enlarged rudder, and cutaway cowlings that provided improved airflow and ballanced ailerons. A further 30 new production D.III airframes incorporated these modifications. Total production amounted to 80 aircraft. (This version is covered by the Loon Models set LO32007.)
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