Tim,
I would first like to say how very impressive all your work is, the vehicles, the detail parts, all very nice. Thank you for taking the time to photograph and post all your work as it progresses.
I ran across something a while back that you may find usefull. While thinking of a way to make tapered antennas for German vehicles I noticed a telescoping fiberglass "cane pole" at Academy sporting goods. Once the loop on the tip is removed there is a beautiful tapered rod that is rather flexible. I know this is a small detail, but one that is quite characteristic of German vehicles.
All the best,
David Webb