Hi, Rafael!
Let me try to answer on some of your question
You wrote: � �.but this line is not the same as the one shown in the wreck picture. Look at the close position of the V-strut regarding to that line. The bottom edge of the rear 80 mm armor is higher�.�
Please, have a look at the place on my model :
My MES-line comes right parallel the keel, above it on 38 mm (7600 on real ) � but it is a lower edge of armor belts. My picture looks like a wreck�s one (the Devil!...) Yes, there are some distortions- unfortunately, I took the Hachette kit as a base � and the kit consist of distortions only�.
You wrote: ��the armor plates were backed up by teak wood, being screwed up to it and then welded together��
I think, in those times there wasn�t a possibility to weld the 80 mm armor. And no need! The hull deforms and �plays� a little bit during the exploitation � from a wave-load, from temperature and so on.. The welded armor belt can crush the hull! Why you are confused by the wood substrate and the hard screws? On my opinion, it is a good solution�
You wrote: � I think Anatoly was talking about the thicker plate on the bow of the Bismarck�
Yes, I meant the thin line on the Gneisenau picture- I named it as a �remains of the MES� . The line is too thick for welding line and for 6mm difference!
You wrote: �but was it all the way around as in Prinz Eugen or only all along the hull sides�
I am sure, that the cable should pass around the whole hull. If somewhere it will be �cutted� by a steel, the steel shorts the magnetic field!
By the way, Rafael, if I take you right, you are planning to make the housing of your model like a drydock? So, you will stand your model on keelblocks (wooden foots) Please, be careful with dockkeels ! The Gally�s drawing has a mistake in the area! It is very easy to prove by measure!..
With best regards,
Anatoly