Struts repaired and repositioned, interplane struts rigging left on, monofilament so no stretch. new radiator filler and cap fitted. I think I shall paint the roundels next, so have to make some masks, another fun job?

1 attached image. Click to enlarge.

You're progressing nicely with this repair, Ian @firelockg

IAN Convey (@firelockg)
You have made some good progress since I have checked last. It is really shaping up !

Hopefully the pins will be strong enough to hold everything together.

Louis & Spiros, I want to get the paint work right before the top wing goes on, saves allot of masking .

Those repairs are coming together perfectly, Ian @firelockg
She will look like a first build once done.

A question for the history buffs, what was the squadron emblem for 74 sqd. and 85 sqd.in 1918, as I think I shall finish the SE5a in Edward Mannock's livery. I found some info that one of these squadrons emblem was a hexagon just behind the fuselage roundel, but I don't know if it was solid or just outlined. Anyone have any ideas?

Ian,
You are certainly not wasting time with fixing this one up ! It looks great too.

Spiros is spot on with his pictures of 85 Squadron SE’s.

I found this illustration of Mannock’s SE and a picture of one of the actual planes that served in 74 Squadron. Both of these two were 74 Squadron aircraft.

Hope this helps.

Take care and keep it going. You’re getting closer.

Louis, I have decided to go with the 74 squadron livery, as per the drawing you posted. It has the A/C serial No. and Mannock's "A" sign , also its easier to mask up to paint the white bars than a bloody hexagon.
The photo of the actual SE5a in 74 SQD. is fantastic, shows lots of mud , wrinkles and wear and tear. No wonder the A/C wore out quickly. Shall keep that photo for reference, thanks.