Kriegsmarine destroyer Z-8 question

[hj1985]

Happy new year, guys

Ich wünsche euch einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!

I am trying to convert a 1/700 Z-8 destroyer (type 1934A) in pre-war configuration from Trumpeter's Z-7 kit.

After checking some historical photo references and 3D models, one thing I am not sure about is Z-8's pre-war mast.

Here are my questions and incomplete findings. I will really appreciate if someone can shed a light on this.

Attachment 1. Z-8 1938 master question
Attachment 2. Z-8 1938 master findings

My another question refers to a comment from Brown, Robert. German Destroyers (ShipCraft Book 25) (p. 19). Pen & Sword Books. It writes "(Trumpeter's Z-7 kit's) forecastle break plating does not have the square cut at the bottom". Does anyone know what this refers to?

Danke im Voraus!