History

An overhead camshaft (OHC) engine of 1914-1918 (also informally called pushrod engine) is a type of piston engine that places the camshaft running above the cylinder heads (with the the crankshaft in the block below), and uses lifters to actuate rocker arms above the cylinder heads that in turn actuate the valves. The lifters or tappets are located in the above the engine camshaft that runs above the tops of the cylinders.

kit contents

Taurus Models makes high quality details its forte. Now they spring into action with a set of rocker valve lifters / tappets and springs and camshaft for the 1:32 Mercedes D.III motors in today's popular kits. As a method of aknowleging fine craftsmanship in the Early Aviation's Group Builds I have prevailed upon a manufacturer to send a new product to one of our members the following is his reaction to the "Easy to paint version".

A fellow modeler comments

"The *gift* arrived today. Now I need a Mercedes D.III to install them on. . . Hah! I think my 1:32 Alb. D.V build may find the motor re-engineered. . .

#D3207a an "easy to paint" option with the rocker box tops as separate items. Now, my first impressions are very good, packaged in a small Zip-lock bag. four blocks of resin, one of springs, one of rocker arms, the overhead camshaft and one block with the tops of the boxes. Packed with a simple but easy to read instruction sheet showing what goes where and what needs to be removed from the main kit.

The smaller parts have the usual Gravestone protection stubs at each end. I've examined the contents of each. Detail is exquisite on all parts. Something that shows thought is that all components apart from the main assembly come with one or more spares in case of breakage or loss. A Really nice and very appreciated touch by Taurus.

The rocker box tops even have individual mounting lugs cast onto them complete with bolts.

Springs are fine, loaded and unloaded delicate looking, beautifully cast.

Rocker arms are just beautiful with clamp bolts etc all cast wonderfully.

Taurus show their thoughtful approach as even down to the mounting stubs for individual parts has been well thought out. A lot of thought has clearly gone into the product. I can't wait to install it on an engine.

Now the only very minor issue is that the main assembly is slightly curved but as often is the case with resin components, a very easy fix with hot water and a straightedge.

All in all a my first impression is a fantastic addition to any kit that uses the Mercedes D.III power unit.

Also along with the samples I received a Zip-lock bag containing eight sets of sparkplugs unmarked there appears to be sets of both types in 1/32nd and 1/48th scale.

Best regards Kornbeef"

Here is something for "larger scale" modellers containg timing gear, lifters & springs in 32 scale. A very simple product and very useful. Roden and WNW models don't have detailed items like this in their kits. These are the versions seen on many 160 & early 170hp motors. These are applicable to Mercedes inline motors.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.