Yesterday, Mikael Carlson performed the first fast taxi/directional tests with his accurate Pfalz D.VIII reproduction. Just like the originals, the aircraft is powered by a rare and very interesting 200-hp 11-cylinder Siemens-Halske Sh.III geared rotary engine, the only one of its kind operational. Knowing Mikael Carlson's work, I assume every part and detail is 100% authentic to that of the originals, as he wouldn't have it any other way.
In an interview Mikael Carlson gave some years back, he said his method to building these aircraft starts with the engines, the single most expensive aspect - he finds the engines first and then goes about researching which aircraft used those engines and picks from those which aircraft he reproduces/rebuilds for that particular engine. As just an example of the level of detail he strives for, I seem to recall that in his Fokker Dr.1 reproduction, for example, even the metal tubing of the fuselage frame is accurate to the metallurgy of the originals.
It is also wonderful to read that Mikael Carlson expects to have his Tummelisa flying again this year, following repairs required after the nose-over experienced last year when being flown by another pilot at the Zeltweg airshow when it hit an obstacle on landing.
That's awesome John. Thanks. I recently read a great article by him on flying the Dreidecker. I went looking for info because earlier this week I helped a friend assemble his Fokker Triplane. It is powered by a Siemens radial from a Jungmeister. I really enjoy the technology of the Great War aeroplanes. If one is prepared to stray from authenticity regarding powerplants, one can have a fun and reasonably affordable machine.
Seeing machines done to Mikaels' standard is a real treat though, for sure.
The more affordable aspect of building and supporting WWI and early 1900's era aircraft is something that Mikael Carlson has mentioned too as a prime factor in why he specializes in building/flying the aircraft he does, versus WWII warbirds which he also has a keen interest in and experience flying as well (last year he flew a couple of the Hangar10 Bf-109's in Germany). He can also put his skills and talent directly to work in all the aspects of building these WWI-era aircraft.
I read elsewhere that this is the only running example of this engine. Congratulations to Mikael and his team. She looks a bit squirelly on the ground. I was watching the rudder get booted back and forth like crazy. I would imagine she's a bit close coupled on the ground.