tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14613769799020005372024-03-13T12:25:06.489-05:00Slightly Altered Scale ModelsDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-36692560323701336382012-05-29T18:15:00.000-05:002012-05-29T18:15:14.156-05:00ZIS-5 Soviet Truck Here's a little project to break the Opel addiction I've been in for WW2 trucks. Italeri's Zis-5. Not that an addiction to building Opel truck's is a bad thing. I really enjoy 'em. But I've been wanting to jump into this one for a while.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lnt9iOIJVts/T8VS5Yq7ytI/AAAAAAAAAck/NC8BoJQ0oRA/s1600/133964-10244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lnt9iOIJVts/T8VS5Yq7ytI/AAAAAAAAAck/NC8BoJQ0oRA/s320/133964-10244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
The kit is really quite good for detail. One thing I was really impressed with was the frame, an actual "c" channel frame instead of the solid "box" frame the Italeri Opel's offer. I've really been hoping for a new Italeri kit to come out with the right frame, but I'm going to try to scratch one together for the next build.<br />
There are a few injector marks and sink marks in the castings. Nothing to really get excited about, just a little filler to fix. Some scratch built detail is, of course, in the works. Now to the pics..<br />
<br />
The engine is the first to get some detail. Plug wires, distributor cap, plugs, fuel pump, new starter added. The oil filter housing received some additional mounting bolts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjxaL4CiiL0/T8VTui9swRI/AAAAAAAAAdE/5qwx8YPeWDg/s1600/Zis+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TjxaL4CiiL0/T8VTui9swRI/AAAAAAAAAdE/5qwx8YPeWDg/s320/Zis+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQquuT5JLVA/T8VU1j55iWI/AAAAAAAAAdM/QH3OC86Sigo/s1600/Zis+5+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KQquuT5JLVA/T8VU1j55iWI/AAAAAAAAAdM/QH3OC86Sigo/s320/Zis+5+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The frame, ah, the frame.. Very nice part to the kit. Primed, painted black, then stippled with "rubber" brown and rubbed with rust pigments to give a little age. Same with the rear diff. and springs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NwZIJolFc4/T8VWL9omAvI/AAAAAAAAAdU/vETTH2v7UFk/s1600/Zis+5+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3NwZIJolFc4/T8VWL9omAvI/AAAAAAAAAdU/vETTH2v7UFk/s320/Zis+5+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Other mods are being made. The cargo bed needs some work to give a worn appearance. Some other ideas are in mind, but I'm always open to suggestions if you feel like it.<br />
<br />
As always, thank you for stopping in and looking around.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-35667622607044740962012-05-20T11:04:00.000-05:002012-05-20T11:04:29.149-05:00M4A3E8 CompleteFinally completed this build. After quite a while contemplating the final details, weathering, etc. this one is done. I appreciate all those of you who have stuck with me through the timelines to get SOMETHING completed and posted. I hope you enjoy the quick pics.. I'll be posting better pics when I can. But, for now.. here she is.. the Exorcist.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOilZ7kBwFM/T7kUL-_txZI/AAAAAAAAAb4/pz-RcUv8LLM/s1600/Sherman+test+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TOilZ7kBwFM/T7kUL-_txZI/AAAAAAAAAb4/pz-RcUv8LLM/s320/Sherman+test+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_k2DphJYdU/T7kUYoiciPI/AAAAAAAAAcA/1BRlh6ZcgBY/s1600/Sherman+test+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_k2DphJYdU/T7kUYoiciPI/AAAAAAAAAcA/1BRlh6ZcgBY/s320/Sherman+test+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkO94jEWuFg/T7kUhvjLNlI/AAAAAAAAAcI/osr6ZgbF-mw/s1600/Sherman+test+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jkO94jEWuFg/T7kUhvjLNlI/AAAAAAAAAcI/osr6ZgbF-mw/s320/Sherman+test+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgqw5UgVjTk/T7kUllp7CGI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/3GCWxBBRdN0/s1600/Sherman+test+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xgqw5UgVjTk/T7kUllp7CGI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/3GCWxBBRdN0/s320/Sherman+test+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf7xJv5FkM4/T7kUv_JO6_I/AAAAAAAAAcY/Ger9KZas6tY/s1600/Sherman+test+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf7xJv5FkM4/T7kUv_JO6_I/AAAAAAAAAcY/Ger9KZas6tY/s320/Sherman+test+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-51732843867050646412012-04-30T22:28:00.001-05:002012-05-13T21:55:05.115-05:00An Unexpected Honor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hard to imagine on the way down to the IPMS Modelmania 2012 show this past Saturday that the Opel would receive 1st place. But, not only did she take the medal, this 'ol gun truck was awarded "Best Military Vehicle". I was, um, surprised to say the least. The level of models on display was amazing. Craftsmanship, imagination, passion.. all were very evident in the builds. I'm proud to have been a part of the show, and to meet some great folks there. So a special thanks again to all those involved in the Modelmania show, and to IPMS. See ya'll at next years show.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJmq-szqabw/T59U1PUamaI/AAAAAAAAAbs/cgASXTeZiOY/s1600/Opel+final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJmq-szqabw/T59U1PUamaI/AAAAAAAAAbs/cgASXTeZiOY/s320/Opel+final.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in on the blog.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-45678655962462259252011-10-30T09:06:00.001-05:002011-10-30T09:16:56.913-05:00New BuildCan't believe it's already the end of October. I've got to apologize for the absence here on site. It's really been a hectic summer at the shop, and in life. But with the year coming to an end, and folks start looking for things to fix other than their cars and trucks it might start to slow down a bit.<br />
With the slow down comes a chance to catch up on builds, and start a new one.<br />
This time around it's another Opel, the Maultier. There's two of these in the stash, this one being the regular cargo version. The other is a gun truck.<br />
Not really sure which direction this will be going yet. The mods to the 'ol Italeri kit will be many, as per usual. This will have an open engine bay. Maybe a tarp cover on the cargo bed instead of being open. I just don't know yet, but it will be fun... I really enjoy these trucks.<br />
Updates will come as fast as I can manage them. Both with this build, and the Panther which still needs paint, and the Katyusha, and, and, and...<br />
Thanks for looking in again, hope to see ya soon. Drop a comment if you want to, it's always appreciated.<br />
<br />
Dale<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZabGVxpikk/Tq1cSQ5-x_I/AAAAAAAAAbk/O7DyJd9s1z0/s1600/dbd5_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZabGVxpikk/Tq1cSQ5-x_I/AAAAAAAAAbk/O7DyJd9s1z0/s320/dbd5_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-7806390391451183672011-07-03T08:19:00.000-05:002011-07-03T08:19:22.403-05:00Katyusha. 1/35th Italeri<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Stalled again. This time on the Panther, but not for long. I've been having some issues with paint. Keeping them fluid in 105 degree temperatures seems to be a small problem. They want to set up, and "coagulate" even with thinning.<br />
That will get worked out though. In the meantime, out comes an older build for a little attention. The Italeri/ Revell Katyusha in 1/35th. Built this a little while back and just didn't know where to go with it to be honest. Now I think I do, but we'll have to see if it works, or just gets messed up.<br />
I'd been thinking about the rockets on this thing, and how they'd be fired. A friend of mine showed me some facts (thanks again Simon) that these didn't have wires leading to the rockets as I had figured they must. It's an electrical charge running through the rails. He also told me to go easy on the stowage that might be stashed around on these due to the large fireball created when launched. Sound advice indeed! And something I hadn't considered honestly.<br />
So, here's a few up to date pics on where this stands at the moment. More work coming with it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6QxVDnIezjg/Tg87MUB3Z3I/AAAAAAAAAa4/zWlwmn7Pe9Y/s1600/Katyusha+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6QxVDnIezjg/Tg87MUB3Z3I/AAAAAAAAAa4/zWlwmn7Pe9Y/s320/Katyusha+015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCdJJXy5eKQ/Tg86_GCnfXI/AAAAAAAAAaw/rP4SCmysuWE/s1600/Katyusha+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCdJJXy5eKQ/Tg86_GCnfXI/AAAAAAAAAaw/rP4SCmysuWE/s320/Katyusha+013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LD3LvmvIxs/Tg87GHI8s2I/AAAAAAAAAa0/XaIeG5stxAI/s1600/Katyusha+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LD3LvmvIxs/Tg87GHI8s2I/AAAAAAAAAa0/XaIeG5stxAI/s320/Katyusha+014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq8w0pcypys/Tg87SOIKIcI/AAAAAAAAAa8/_yamRlu8v1k/s1600/Katyusha+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yq8w0pcypys/Tg87SOIKIcI/AAAAAAAAAa8/_yamRlu8v1k/s320/Katyusha+016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rYLnMxHhDlQ/Tg87YuLkPOI/AAAAAAAAAbA/n1_YXmNb3gg/s1600/Katyusha+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rYLnMxHhDlQ/Tg87YuLkPOI/AAAAAAAAAbA/n1_YXmNb3gg/s320/Katyusha+017.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLGuu7zkMYA/ThBqx_efqnI/AAAAAAAAAbU/j_e1sz45UXM/s1600/Katyusha+tail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLGuu7zkMYA/ThBqx_efqnI/AAAAAAAAAbU/j_e1sz45UXM/s320/Katyusha+tail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Thanks again for looking in on another build. Post up if you have any ideas for this, it's appreciated.<br />
<br />
Dale<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><span id="goog_1164757260"></span><span id="goog_1164757261"></span>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-20055470354577137452011-04-22T06:55:00.000-05:002011-04-22T06:55:56.775-05:00Panther in PrimerConstruction/ mods complete. This build is finally in primer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qruJG7TzSo/TbFpHBuRquI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/vm_q9gWATC8/s1600/Panther+177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qruJG7TzSo/TbFpHBuRquI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/vm_q9gWATC8/s320/Panther+177.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a name='more'></a><br />
There were a couple final mods before the primer coat was applied. Mainly the MG mount on the commanders cupola. The kit piece is really lacking in detail, so everything was removed from it and additions made.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz5cy9bk8-M/TbFqjgIEwII/AAAAAAAAAaY/n7PqV5k9_5I/s1600/Panther+169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iz5cy9bk8-M/TbFqjgIEwII/AAAAAAAAAaY/n7PqV5k9_5I/s320/Panther+169.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko37nt3zPWc/TbFqql_0G1I/AAAAAAAAAac/enyMD2i311Q/s1600/Panther+175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko37nt3zPWc/TbFqql_0G1I/AAAAAAAAAac/enyMD2i311Q/s320/Panther+175.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I'm still undecided as to whether the MG mount will be included in the final build. All the hatches will be closed up.<br />
<br />
More weld seams were also added. Mainly to the tool saddles, vision periscope guards, and spare track link mounts.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GK3y9k5Id1I/TbFqtd3V5zI/AAAAAAAAAag/BXhuaIEdcRM/s1600/Panther+173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GK3y9k5Id1I/TbFqtd3V5zI/AAAAAAAAAag/BXhuaIEdcRM/s320/Panther+173.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Good to finally see some overall primer though. It sure has taken a while.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UrnBr2Ioh0k/TbFqvoAtvJI/AAAAAAAAAak/BOaLLaVdz3I/s1600/Panther+181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UrnBr2Ioh0k/TbFqvoAtvJI/AAAAAAAAAak/BOaLLaVdz3I/s320/Panther+181.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-17kGL-GB37g/TbFqxvAmHUI/AAAAAAAAAao/gNIu70igH1M/s1600/Panther+179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-17kGL-GB37g/TbFqxvAmHUI/AAAAAAAAAao/gNIu70igH1M/s320/Panther+179.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Thanks for staying with me on this build, paint coming soon.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-39817814192480373792011-04-15T07:20:00.001-05:002011-04-15T07:21:49.387-05:00Re-works complete<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Finally finished up with the parts I figured needed overhauling on this build. The spare track hangers are now on the hull and will allow for retaining pins and chain to be added. It also allowed for a little "bending" to be done on the hangers themselves, to show just a little abuse. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muMJovTWS3o/Tag0-uevfbI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/LNYICHx_0vg/s1600/Panther+159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muMJovTWS3o/Tag0-uevfbI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/LNYICHx_0vg/s320/Panther+159.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjX2aJDZ-go/Tag1JibBzvI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/sAand6x0WZ0/s1600/Panther+160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjX2aJDZ-go/Tag1JibBzvI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/sAand6x0WZ0/s320/Panther+160.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The smaller parts, having been cleaned of molding seams and casting marks started making it onto the hull.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OKA_l_TRBc/Tag1Zb17t5I/AAAAAAAAAaA/a30N9yh8mCM/s1600/Panther+162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OKA_l_TRBc/Tag1Zb17t5I/AAAAAAAAAaA/a30N9yh8mCM/s320/Panther+162.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And the travel lock, which was altered a bit for a touch more detail. It still needs something more on it... just haven't figured out what yet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yjq1iaJ_96o/Tag1ayNrgfI/AAAAAAAAAaE/Pi1v7DcL8f8/s1600/Panther+163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yjq1iaJ_96o/Tag1ayNrgfI/AAAAAAAAAaE/Pi1v7DcL8f8/s320/Panther+163.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Two small details on the exhaust pipes were also added, not much to add in sure, but they would have been noticed as missing if I hadn't.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3iMlf971os/Tag1iJCH40I/AAAAAAAAAaM/EaHIcVJSgvs/s1600/Panther+167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3iMlf971os/Tag1iJCH40I/AAAAAAAAAaM/EaHIcVJSgvs/s320/Panther+167.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other small detail parts are being cleaned and altered, but this is finally getting close to final primer. So more to come soon.<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in. Hope you approve of the mods<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-14788863556902053382011-04-10T19:42:00.001-05:002011-04-10T19:44:49.372-05:00More details on the Panther<div>Got a few hours on the bench... But didn't get a whole lot accomplished it seems. The tool saddles on the hull sides were the focus since the spare track brackets on the rear are still a WIP. Both of the kit pieces are lacking in detail, requiring another alteration and scratchbuilding session in order to be a bit more, well, <i>more</i>.</div>The tool saddles, and tools were stripped of their mounts and everything re-built using bits and such from the spares box and some scratchbuilding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FlY5eIZclH0/TaJL8zQr8yI/AAAAAAAAAZc/fKCCCVdJOBM/s1600/Panther+153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FlY5eIZclH0/TaJL8zQr8yI/AAAAAAAAAZc/fKCCCVdJOBM/s320/Panther+153.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1mZFeV1aAI/TaJMJasqb4I/AAAAAAAAAZg/Vjc2HaO1zmQ/s1600/Panther+154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1mZFeV1aAI/TaJMJasqb4I/AAAAAAAAAZg/Vjc2HaO1zmQ/s320/Panther+154.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pcYv_f-KYLI/TaJMO-0y1II/AAAAAAAAAZk/fWSaYq8n87k/s1600/Panther+155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pcYv_f-KYLI/TaJMO-0y1II/AAAAAAAAAZk/fWSaYq8n87k/s320/Panther+155.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And, some extra building took place around the hull, but mainly it's been removal of parts, cleaning them and prep for assembly. <br />
Not really much of an update again, but I've got a mass of loose parts waiting for final details, then assembly. So once those pesky track hangers are complete, and they are interesting to build, this will move along with a bigger step. Then there's those tracks...<br />
<br />
More coming soon, thanks for looking in.<br />
<br />
Dale<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-15005254245040128612011-03-20T11:49:00.002-05:002011-03-20T11:51:53.943-05:00Panther Storage Boxes CompleteTook longer than I'd imagined. Construction, damage, reassembly after damage was inflicted due to the boxes coming apart. But, they are finally done and mounted on the hull.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r1jUeYkpLjU/TYYtn4QyqHI/AAAAAAAAAZI/ruxHvkr8mao/s1600/Panther+152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-r1jUeYkpLjU/TYYtn4QyqHI/AAAAAAAAAZI/ruxHvkr8mao/s320/Panther+152.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The scratchbuilt mounts fit really nice and look the part, I think.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-31emPwdbsvg/TYYuReOjjuI/AAAAAAAAAZM/01vcyiuwmps/s1600/Panther+150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-31emPwdbsvg/TYYuReOjjuI/AAAAAAAAAZM/01vcyiuwmps/s320/Panther+150.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--f4Z8c31CWc/TYYuV1cUqEI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/JHsAymF3ihg/s1600/Panther+151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--f4Z8c31CWc/TYYuV1cUqEI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/JHsAymF3ihg/s320/Panther+151.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Just a little more clean up needed, which will come before the final primer coat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ygm6N4BJdGM/TYYvE6sT7vI/AAAAAAAAAZU/cpcTQGhDV2M/s1600/Panther+147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ygm6N4BJdGM/TYYvE6sT7vI/AAAAAAAAAZU/cpcTQGhDV2M/s320/Panther+147.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0XyQudLZbQA/TYYvQrCKBTI/AAAAAAAAAZY/fEsaOkHBsGE/s1600/Panther+149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0XyQudLZbQA/TYYvQrCKBTI/AAAAAAAAAZY/fEsaOkHBsGE/s320/Panther+149.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Now that these are mounted up we'll see how many times I can knock 'em off again before the color goes on, lol. <br />
Thanks for sticking in with this build... Sorry for the long time frame it's taking to complete. More coming later.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-50812993715411552402011-03-07T20:57:00.000-06:002011-03-07T20:57:55.664-06:00The Panther AdvancesSome much anticipated bench time was finally scheduled after a fairly hectic week or so at the shop. It's great being busy with paint work this early in the season, but sure does take away from the hobby.<br />
More details added to the Panther build. Starting with the commanders cupola, which received texture and... weld seams. Texture was added using paint in a stippling application to give a cast look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--P01MDfo_qE/TXWQy-Mh_TI/AAAAAAAAAYg/vye-MhFEVYQ/s1600/Panther+139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/--P01MDfo_qE/TXWQy-Mh_TI/AAAAAAAAAYg/vye-MhFEVYQ/s320/Panther+139.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a name='more'></a>Then the hull sides. I'd been trying to figure out how to improve these, the way the kit had this area just didn't look right. Then a friend over on Model Armour pointed me in the proper direction with a couple pictures. A couple alterations later and this is the result.<br />
The upper hull ends were sanded flat against the sides, with sanding marks left in to give sort of a "heavier" feel. If that makes any sense? Then the welds were re-done to tie everything together. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0-SLCMPyPGU/TXWSvBVvvNI/AAAAAAAAAYo/q-mQ2qBv1Ro/s1600/Panther+141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0-SLCMPyPGU/TXWSvBVvvNI/AAAAAAAAAYo/q-mQ2qBv1Ro/s320/Panther+141.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Following the sides, there was another issue with the rear storage boxes that had been bothering me. This being what I can only interpret as "hangers" for the boxes themselves. The kit supplied pieces were quite thick and needed improvement. So, using pieces from a PE fret these were built. Kit supplied piece is in the center.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DU8xMkSvKkY/TXWVj03g2tI/AAAAAAAAAYw/scc92SORm9k/s1600/Panther+143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-DU8xMkSvKkY/TXWVj03g2tI/AAAAAAAAAYw/scc92SORm9k/s320/Panther+143.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Trouble came when an attempt to dent the new storage box resulted in it coming apart (box on right). These are pretty delicate parts, and I guess I'd forgot that for a moment. It's being reconfigured though, and will once again be part of the build.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DZ55YHAzJ3g/TXWXBOxtI-I/AAAAAAAAAY4/UtWiCAz6iK0/s1600/Panther+144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DZ55YHAzJ3g/TXWXBOxtI-I/AAAAAAAAAY4/UtWiCAz6iK0/s320/Panther+144.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B8i9lEA0aZI/TXWXlxr7zRI/AAAAAAAAAY8/59GeSOS17LU/s1600/Panther+145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B8i9lEA0aZI/TXWXlxr7zRI/AAAAAAAAAY8/59GeSOS17LU/s320/Panther+145.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And that, for now, is where this build sits. Until more time can be found to add more parts and details.<br />
Thank you again for checking in on the Panther, more later.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-49418120557775488052011-02-26T09:17:00.000-06:002011-02-26T09:17:39.778-06:00Sd. Kfz. 171 ContinuedFinally! Both upper and lower hull have been joined together. I'd been contemplating some sort of scratch built interior for the drivers section, just in case, but went without it. A drivers figure will pretty much block everything and I don't know if there will be a driver hanging out yet. Now that this point of the build has been reached though it should move along a bit quicker.... I hope.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xLEfKkeTmMc/TWkVQHlqajI/AAAAAAAAAYE/b6V78l5Tvho/s1600/Panther+132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-xLEfKkeTmMc/TWkVQHlqajI/AAAAAAAAAYE/b6V78l5Tvho/s320/Panther+132.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a name='more'></a>With the hulls joined the major weld seams were finally added. I'd been stressing a little over these, being in such a prominent location, I wanted to try to make them look as "authentic" as possible.... You'll have to be the judge as to whether or not it worked.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j-ihGXked8o/TWkWbxe5_PI/AAAAAAAAAYI/3T462arx6B8/s1600/Panther+133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-j-ihGXked8o/TWkWbxe5_PI/AAAAAAAAAYI/3T462arx6B8/s320/Panther+133.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5MHLN1G6rUw/TWkWn1gYEuI/AAAAAAAAAYM/vLA8YoVv38s/s1600/Panther+138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-5MHLN1G6rUw/TWkWn1gYEuI/AAAAAAAAAYM/vLA8YoVv38s/s320/Panther+138.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The fabricated cooling pods are still in place. You can sorta tell there's something under the vents, but not much. It's not empty space though, and that's what I wanted to accomplish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8pjq7PXRNuo/TWkYHq0ZCaI/AAAAAAAAAYY/qWcfIEMQhMk/s1600/Panther+136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-8pjq7PXRNuo/TWkYHq0ZCaI/AAAAAAAAAYY/qWcfIEMQhMk/s320/Panther+136.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Last point in another short update, the hull sides where everything meets. It just doesn't look right to me yet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SHI-ZteHFC4/TWkXFzO81JI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Q4RqegYiZ7M/s1600/Panther+135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SHI-ZteHFC4/TWkXFzO81JI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Q4RqegYiZ7M/s320/Panther+135.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Maybe the welds should be re-done? Or something, just haven't figured this part out yet. Thankfully tomorrow looks to be a day where the Panther can be worked on. So with a little research things can hopefully be sorted out.<br />
<br />
Thanks again for stopping by. More coming later<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-87797414886321115952011-02-07T20:09:00.000-06:002011-02-07T20:09:40.419-06:00Sd. Kfz. 171 PantherLittle bit more headway on this build. Still not a whole bunch, but steadily moving forward. Life is conflicting with the model building a little here of late.<br />
The metal foil stowage boxes are really turning out nicely I think. A pain to build, but well worth the effort as the finished result bends and acts like scale metal should.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVChC2PGGEI/AAAAAAAAAXw/ouTZks3XETM/s1600/Panther+125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVChC2PGGEI/AAAAAAAAAXw/ouTZks3XETM/s320/Panther+125.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a name='more'></a>A couple more pics. Metal foil box on left, kit supplied part in center, first go at rebuild with plastic sheet on the right.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCh0TaoStI/AAAAAAAAAX0/0KVzcoa9kfo/s1600/Panther+124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCh0TaoStI/AAAAAAAAAX0/0KVzcoa9kfo/s320/Panther+124.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I've found a couple different types of latches used for the boxes. So these were scratched together following pics as an example.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCihYt5kZI/AAAAAAAAAX4/QCCpuMn0Njg/s1600/Panther+126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCihYt5kZI/AAAAAAAAAX4/QCCpuMn0Njg/s320/Panther+126.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As application of primer usually does some flaws showed up, which will be fixed. All in all though, I'm pretty happy with the results.<br />
<br />
While working the primer some "odd-ball" wheels were given attention. These are supposed to represent wheels that have been salvaged from other Panthers, or supplied as replacements during this Panthers tour of duty. Just for a little more "personality".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCjjaIxzKI/AAAAAAAAAX8/hQnYvtrWRRk/s1600/Panther+128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCjjaIxzKI/AAAAAAAAAX8/hQnYvtrWRRk/s320/Panther+128.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The final paint work has been done to the cooling bays. Everything has been kept on the light side, maybe doing this will allow a little more detail to be seen under the grills.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCkxpW7QgI/AAAAAAAAAYA/I7GBhRSv2X8/s1600/Panther+131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TVCkxpW7QgI/AAAAAAAAAYA/I7GBhRSv2X8/s320/Panther+131.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Final prep toward mating the upper and lower hull is almost complete. Once that is done, more welds can be put in place. Then this build can move forward again.<br />
More coming shortly I hope, thanks again for looking in.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-82212508983137476202011-01-19T23:00:00.001-06:002011-01-20T07:11:31.022-06:00The new shooter..Badger Patriot 105It was time to replace the old siphon feed Badger that's been spraying these models, and many custom paint jobs on auto's, for many years. The replacement.. Badger Patriot 105.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TTe-NcQEHVI/AAAAAAAAAXk/OhkdXth8q8k/s1600/Panther+123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TTe-NcQEHVI/AAAAAAAAAXk/OhkdXth8q8k/s320/Panther+123.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Sure, it's got the fancy "S" name stamped on it. So did the siphon feed. But for an all around airbrush I'm hoping this will be a good replacement for that old one. Now, there's still the Iwata Eclipse HP-CS in the arsenal for the fine detail, so everything should be set.<br />
The Panther is going to be the first one in this gun's site's. We'll see how it does in the near future.<br />
<br />
Thanks again for stopping by.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-70787044191885469592011-01-02T18:50:00.001-06:002011-01-12T07:09:00.569-06:00Sd. Kfz. 171 Panther continuedFinally finished a little more work on this. Not much, due to a very busy work load at the paint shop.<br />
Progress is being made though.<br />
The rear storage boxes are being sorted out in another media to see if they look better. You'll remember the first attempts were built with plastic sheet. This time around I've decided to try aluminum foil.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEZdQNDUeI/AAAAAAAAAXM/U-3wSamt1Co/s1600/Panther+113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEZdQNDUeI/AAAAAAAAAXM/U-3wSamt1Co/s320/Panther+113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a name='more'></a>The boxes might bend a little more "realistically" with the aluminum.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEZ_tFomaI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Ahfl2vmp1w4/s1600/Panther+114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEZ_tFomaI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/Ahfl2vmp1w4/s320/Panther+114.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
They still need some cleaning up of course, and as of right now I've no idea how to approach the lids but something will come to mind.<br />
<br />
The wheels, standard fare for these German tanks, there's quite a few, were beat up a bit for a used look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEa9OCj7nI/AAAAAAAAAXU/qWEedUlqZeY/s1600/Panther+117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEa9OCj7nI/AAAAAAAAAXU/qWEedUlqZeY/s320/Panther+117.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEbPgayfdI/AAAAAAAAAXY/AlfEnzCzsok/s1600/Panther+118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEbPgayfdI/AAAAAAAAAXY/AlfEnzCzsok/s320/Panther+118.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The storage tube for the cleaning rods received attention. The molded on retaining straps didn't look right, neither did the solid handles on the end caps. Both were altered. This will see a little damage added to it as well. But hey, it's going to be a well used Panther right?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEb26u81tI/AAAAAAAAAXc/WuJ3CW9uGfA/s1600/Panther+120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TSEb26u81tI/AAAAAAAAAXc/WuJ3CW9uGfA/s320/Panther+120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
That, I'm afraid, is the update for now. Plans are for an interior of some sort in the turret. That will allow the hatches to be left open. Some Eduard photo etch detail, and a couple other ideas being kicked around.<br />
<br />
Thank you for looking in on the build, we'll see you soon.<br />
<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-12773914850734177142010-12-10T00:16:00.000-06:002010-12-10T00:16:47.329-06:00Sd. Kfz. 171 Panther A EarlySince the Sherman build is kinda stalled right now. Still no cure for the "mind block" on it yet. This old Dragon kit came out and was fired up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG4O7XQhWI/AAAAAAAAAVU/KSo-2B8arSg/s1600/dr6160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG4O7XQhWI/AAAAAAAAAVU/KSo-2B8arSg/s1600/dr6160.jpg" /></a></div>Now, even being an older kit, I think it's been in the "stash" for about 4 years or so, it's still quite nicely detailed. Even so, it needs some minor altering.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
This is a current build. With quite a bit of research needed on my part due to the fact that Panthers are not really a strong topic for me. I did want to build this without the Zimmerit coating on the hull, and with a three tone camouflage. After asking a few friends and actually finding a couple pictures I found out there were a few early A Panthers that came without the Zimm. Three tone camo might have been applied in the field, so this is sort of a theoretical build more than accuracy. All about the fun, right?<br />
<br />
Looking over the parts there was a few issues that were going to need attention. Sink marks in visible areas are fairly minor, but they are there.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG7h-NMo_I/AAAAAAAAAVY/RKhFwUiBwzY/s1600/Panther+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG7h-NMo_I/AAAAAAAAAVY/RKhFwUiBwzY/s320/Panther+017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The upper hull on this kit was a little warped. Probably from storage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG76qG6-GI/AAAAAAAAAVc/lrSkz06sdhg/s1600/Panther+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG76qG6-GI/AAAAAAAAAVc/lrSkz06sdhg/s320/Panther+021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
But with a little surgery, and some crossed fingers, it was worked out.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG9L2XLyUI/AAAAAAAAAVg/E5GjUS9C6po/s1600/Panther+050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG9L2XLyUI/AAAAAAAAAVg/E5GjUS9C6po/s320/Panther+050.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG95bipjQI/AAAAAAAAAVo/uJKR0movZYY/s1600/Panther+049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG95bipjQI/AAAAAAAAAVo/uJKR0movZYY/s320/Panther+049.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
New weld seams were added in the proper locations. These were left a little rough since subsequent paint and weathering will fill them in a bit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG9cspLjkI/AAAAAAAAAVk/yospwmNPaSU/s1600/Panther+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG9cspLjkI/AAAAAAAAAVk/yospwmNPaSU/s320/Panther+030.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Now, the idea of adding weld seams sounded like a fairly straight forward idea upon inception but quickly took on a life of it's own as research continued... There are a lot of weld seams that need to be added. And some more sink marks under the sponsons to be filled.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG-xIXUOhI/AAAAAAAAAVs/6rYAMzcizvc/s1600/Panther+053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQG-xIXUOhI/AAAAAAAAAVs/6rYAMzcizvc/s320/Panther+053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The turret was the next focus for altering. Some texture was added to the mantlet. The rear also recieved a little roughing up on the edges of the side plates, and more weld seams added.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHAC9ygotI/AAAAAAAAAVw/m0HWOrX63VY/s1600/Panther+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHAC9ygotI/AAAAAAAAAVw/m0HWOrX63VY/s320/Panther+034.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHAXCs3GeI/AAAAAAAAAV0/Zmt9vz8ADSA/s1600/Panther+093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHAXCs3GeI/AAAAAAAAAV0/Zmt9vz8ADSA/s320/Panther+093.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
A little rudimentary scratch- building took place for something to look at under the rear cooling vents. This was kept basic, since not much will be seen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHCJU4zlCI/AAAAAAAAAV4/Fk9DJwox6OI/s1600/Panther+079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHCJU4zlCI/AAAAAAAAAV4/Fk9DJwox6OI/s320/Panther+079.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
After contemplating how to add some damage to the rear storage boxes I sort of decided to scratch- build new ones. The kit pieces are just too thick, and probably wouldn't bend the way I wanted. Of course, after completing construction, I didn't really want to bend these up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHCrYvneWI/AAAAAAAAAV8/dhN0j5-DCLM/s1600/Panther+103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHCrYvneWI/AAAAAAAAAV8/dhN0j5-DCLM/s320/Panther+103.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHC7iHDwZI/AAAAAAAAAWA/H0hndM76jYs/s1600/Panther+102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHC7iHDwZI/AAAAAAAAAWA/H0hndM76jYs/s320/Panther+102.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
But I did.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHDNpZg3EI/AAAAAAAAAWE/-UMW0Utz4-s/s1600/Panther+104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHDNpZg3EI/AAAAAAAAAWE/-UMW0Utz4-s/s320/Panther+104.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHDmN-mBBI/AAAAAAAAAWI/YYsU4QHWkFo/s1600/Panther+105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHDmN-mBBI/AAAAAAAAAWI/YYsU4QHWkFo/s320/Panther+105.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
That sort of brings this to where it stands for right now.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHFbekqQpI/AAAAAAAAAWM/W8Ij0V43Avo/s1600/Panther+085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TQHFbekqQpI/AAAAAAAAAWM/W8Ij0V43Avo/s320/Panther+085.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
More additions to come.<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in. Hope you've enjoyed things so far.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-20788136175077493922010-11-14T07:40:00.001-06:002010-11-14T07:41:39.657-06:00Sd.Kfz. 251/10 Ausf. CDragons 251 Ausf. C 3 in 1 kit, could be built as a 251/7 Pioneerpanzerwagen, a 251/1 with SMG, or the 251/10 with the 3.7cm PaK. This was a great kit to build, with the only issue I had being in the fitment of the upper hull to the lower hull. That was probably more my fault though. The "link and length" tracks, although time consuming, were a treat to build, and if your careful with the glue can be fully movable when complete... Which I actually managed to pull off.<br />
This was almost an out of box build. Just a few pieces of stowage were added for a little more clutter. Hope you enjoy<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_j3xtdctI/AAAAAAAAAUw/mRQ2K8rSY30/s1600/251+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_j3xtdctI/AAAAAAAAAUw/mRQ2K8rSY30/s320/251+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_kMVtAGnI/AAAAAAAAAU0/uSyRHgAE_GA/s1600/251+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_kMVtAGnI/AAAAAAAAAU0/uSyRHgAE_GA/s320/251+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_ktcH28nI/AAAAAAAAAU4/0mCY3PcVvL4/s1600/251+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_ktcH28nI/AAAAAAAAAU4/0mCY3PcVvL4/s320/251+007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lBYi7BGI/AAAAAAAAAU8/0ZnIEuTNxHw/s1600/251+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lBYi7BGI/AAAAAAAAAU8/0ZnIEuTNxHw/s320/251+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lR9_j7II/AAAAAAAAAVA/qiUa_qmaMDM/s1600/251+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lR9_j7II/AAAAAAAAAVA/qiUa_qmaMDM/s320/251+010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_liV3WGoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/hu-vI3GceXs/s1600/251+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_liV3WGoI/AAAAAAAAAVE/hu-vI3GceXs/s320/251+014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lxC-ZzoI/AAAAAAAAAVI/-vViwYQxPf8/s1600/251+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN_lxC-ZzoI/AAAAAAAAAVI/-vViwYQxPf8/s320/251+025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-89717890195377579222010-11-12T19:52:00.001-06:002010-11-12T19:54:14.968-06:00M4A3E8Went to shift gears on the "8" build and hit neutral. Stuck, stalled. Just can't get the next move figured out. But, for now, here's where "The Exorcist" stands...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3rr2_RPMI/AAAAAAAAAUc/h2xmmu43ar8/s1600/Sherman+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3rr2_RPMI/AAAAAAAAAUc/h2xmmu43ar8/s320/Sherman+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a name='more'></a> All the tool straps have been fabbed and installed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3sVIi_0bI/AAAAAAAAAUg/Pv8-npRWSRc/s1600/Sherman+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3sVIi_0bI/AAAAAAAAAUg/Pv8-npRWSRc/s320/Sherman+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And the stowage started, that pink fuzzy tarp/blanket won't be that way when it's finished.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3ssYqwY0I/AAAAAAAAAUk/HPEuaiYudtM/s1600/Sherman+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3ssYqwY0I/AAAAAAAAAUk/HPEuaiYudtM/s320/Sherman+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Small retaining chains for the fuel caps fabbed and installed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3tB6mZpoI/AAAAAAAAAUo/qxRQEXwoR4s/s1600/Sherman+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3tB6mZpoI/AAAAAAAAAUo/qxRQEXwoR4s/s320/Sherman+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> And finally, Ma Deuce is pretty much finished, just a touch more detail painting left to do.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3tXhulLiI/AAAAAAAAAUs/OkUj3fccQbA/s1600/Sherman+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TN3tXhulLiI/AAAAAAAAAUs/OkUj3fccQbA/s320/Sherman+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>So, for now, I've got to do some serious figuring. Hope to post more up soon.<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in<br />
<br />
<br />
Dale<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-79558470772423607132010-11-06T11:15:00.000-05:002010-11-06T11:15:19.525-05:00Kfz. 305 Opel BlitzFinished this one. Finally. Here's the 1/35 Italeri Opel Blitz, with some alterations. the standard cargo bed was swapped with one from the Italeri Maultier kit because i wanted the stake sides on this one. All the tarp tie down loops were shaved off and replaced with fine wire. The tarp bow mounts were replaced, as were all the latches on the bed. Scratch built the large cargo box on the drivers side. Cut the doors away from the kit, which takes a lot of work to get back into the proper position!! (so not advised) Just numerous mods done to bring a different aspect to the kit. Hopefully the pics say it all. <br />
<br />
Dale<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV9phf--nI/AAAAAAAAATc/z-iyc7Gdeeo/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV9phf--nI/AAAAAAAAATc/z-iyc7Gdeeo/s320/Opel+final+EVE+001.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV95Pg9UhI/AAAAAAAAATg/m5aJXkKqapY/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV95Pg9UhI/AAAAAAAAATg/m5aJXkKqapY/s320/Opel+final+EVE+002.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-K6DijII/AAAAAAAAATk/AZ2KTVs3EiE/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-K6DijII/AAAAAAAAATk/AZ2KTVs3EiE/s320/Opel+final+EVE+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-VSXWozI/AAAAAAAAATo/YNZxn6dPTnk/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-VSXWozI/AAAAAAAAATo/YNZxn6dPTnk/s320/Opel+final+EVE+006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-dLQrsKI/AAAAAAAAATs/r2k-DbbXgrM/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-dLQrsKI/AAAAAAAAATs/r2k-DbbXgrM/s320/Opel+final+EVE+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-ouQyJMI/AAAAAAAAATw/BfY9Ufvr6Io/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-ouQyJMI/AAAAAAAAATw/BfY9Ufvr6Io/s320/Opel+final+EVE+013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-xlgP6KI/AAAAAAAAAT0/1_WTljLNxF0/s1600/Opel+final+EVE+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TNV-xlgP6KI/AAAAAAAAAT0/1_WTljLNxF0/s320/Opel+final+EVE+015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-88307647188083987432010-10-21T20:40:00.001-05:002010-10-21T20:43:36.045-05:00M4A3E8Another round of mods on the 8. Working on the tools gave me the chance to dislike the cargo rack mounted on the rear hull. So, off with the kit part.<br />
<br />
This is of course what the kit provides. Adequate, if a person is going to bury it in gear.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDnSnfi2CI/AAAAAAAAASo/5PKS_q8zHeg/s1600/Sherman+test+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDnSnfi2CI/AAAAAAAAASo/5PKS_q8zHeg/s320/Sherman+test+043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Out came the sheet plastic, and scratchbuilding commenced.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDoBv6PUmI/AAAAAAAAASs/bHxQ13TjjX4/s1600/Sherman+test+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDoBv6PUmI/AAAAAAAAASs/bHxQ13TjjX4/s320/Sherman+test+042.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The hinges were cut from a spare rack, then sanded down to thin them. Spare PE fret gave the outside shelf edge.<br />
Other bits were sourced from the spares box. The kit tool holder under the rack was used, after modifications. It was cut apart, rods drilled for stretched sprue add ins to represent the attachment points. Spare PE was used to enhance the mounts. And we end up with this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqQNBBB_I/AAAAAAAAASw/AlQx2iNA4pc/s1600/Sherman+test+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqQNBBB_I/AAAAAAAAASw/AlQx2iNA4pc/s320/Sherman+test+045.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqjMAT8rI/AAAAAAAAAS0/DuHCak1fUng/s1600/Sherman+test+046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqjMAT8rI/AAAAAAAAAS0/DuHCak1fUng/s320/Sherman+test+046.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqz_gDOOI/AAAAAAAAAS4/no6jfpjxt8o/s1600/Sherman+test+044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TMDqz_gDOOI/AAAAAAAAAS4/no6jfpjxt8o/s320/Sherman+test+044.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>More to come I'm sure. Maybe one of these days this Sherman will actually see some final weathering.<br />
<br />
Thanks for looking in.<br />
<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-12951734552379344582010-09-28T18:57:00.002-05:002010-09-28T20:09:51.679-05:00M4A3E8Still in progress. But moving forward on it. Dragons 1/35 "Thunderbolt VII" Sherman. I'd been waiting for some pigments in order to finish this up, and in the process of constantly looking it over, decided the tools could use a little adjustment. So that's what I've attempted.<br />
<br />
The kit tools had the molded on brackets, which were fine all things considered. Just not what I was looking for. So the tools were cleaned up and new brackets built from leftover PE frets.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ80KIBRTI/AAAAAAAAAR4/FTTFwqfeWjk/s1600/Sherman+test+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ80KIBRTI/AAAAAAAAAR4/FTTFwqfeWjk/s320/Sherman+test+015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ9DozEW0I/AAAAAAAAAR8/8r6hxNn4GrI/s1600/Sherman+test+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ9DozEW0I/AAAAAAAAAR8/8r6hxNn4GrI/s320/Sherman+test+014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
The locating holes for the kit tools were left in place while the new brackets were positioned, then filled afterward with stretched sprue plugs. Then, new straps were fabricated using metal foil, mounted on single strands of fine wire and fixed in place.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ-UsmxzNI/AAAAAAAAASA/q2iVgk_FCaE/s1600/Sherman+test+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKJ-UsmxzNI/AAAAAAAAASA/q2iVgk_FCaE/s320/Sherman+test+022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> The buckles for the straps were sourced from those German commander figure sets earphone bands. You know, the heavy PE set that comes in the kit. Up close they are a bit off, but better than spending the money on others I suppose.<br />
The entire tank also received it's first "dust wash", a mix of Model Master Afrika Khakibraun with a touch of Light Sand pigment mixed in from the Tamiya Weathering Master powder sets. This is the first such wash that's planned for the Sherman. It'll be a touch on the dirty side when complete.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKKAVe2CgJI/AAAAAAAAASE/jXtdEObPICY/s1600/Sherman+test+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKKAVe2CgJI/AAAAAAAAASE/jXtdEObPICY/s320/Sherman+test+024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKKAhKwT4mI/AAAAAAAAASI/V5Fewnrkuow/s1600/Sherman+test+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TKKAhKwT4mI/AAAAAAAAASI/V5Fewnrkuow/s320/Sherman+test+025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And so, the work continues.<br />
More to come.<br />
DaleDale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-77984655584204157952010-09-21T20:27:00.004-05:002010-09-25T08:53:44.060-05:00Opel Blitz<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"> Opel Blitz 3 ton. Truck coal engine. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">This is the Italeri 1/35 scale kit. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">It also has the late war Einheits version of the cab, (wood cab). An Eduard PE set was used for that extra touch of detail. The hood was cut open and most of the detail scratch built for the engine. All the windows were replaced with thin clear plastic so that the side windows could be cut and posed open. Model Master paints and Tamiya Weathering master pigments finished it off. In the bed is the Dragon 1/35 scale 3cm Flak 38/103 Jaboschreck. The trailer frame is from the Dragon kit while the box is scratch built.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlanrmXs-I/AAAAAAAAAFE/Ozcy1aa11Pc/s1600/Opel+final+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlanrmXs-I/AAAAAAAAAFE/Ozcy1aa11Pc/s320/Opel+final+011.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJla68cMr3I/AAAAAAAAAFM/noJcUReefBo/s1600/Opel+final+023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJla68cMr3I/AAAAAAAAAFM/noJcUReefBo/s320/Opel+final+023.jpg" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlbfEqYgMI/AAAAAAAAAFU/D_6V3cTxMow/s1600/Opel+final+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlbfEqYgMI/AAAAAAAAAFU/D_6V3cTxMow/s320/Opel+final+040.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlfGq3lpLI/AAAAAAAAAGc/a030W87tVLc/s1600/Opel+final+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlfGq3lpLI/AAAAAAAAAGc/a030W87tVLc/s320/Opel+final+022.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlffdWwnEI/AAAAAAAAAGk/S_iax6XHSJY/s1600/Opel+final+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlffdWwnEI/AAAAAAAAAGk/S_iax6XHSJY/s320/Opel+final+001.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJy0JDKATCI/AAAAAAAAALE/N7FkYscBgEc/s1600/Opel+final+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJy0JDKATCI/AAAAAAAAALE/N7FkYscBgEc/s320/Opel+final+005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJy0eJRccMI/AAAAAAAAALI/3Ql7M-EQEtw/s1600/Opel+final+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJy0eJRccMI/AAAAAAAAALI/3Ql7M-EQEtw/s320/Opel+final+008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ3882XWYiI/AAAAAAAAALU/1Bb7PTpmuWE/s1600/Opel+final+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ3882XWYiI/AAAAAAAAALU/1Bb7PTpmuWE/s320/Opel+final+010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ39N2iR4vI/AAAAAAAAALY/86pc60VQ6bQ/s1600/Opel+final+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ39N2iR4vI/AAAAAAAAALY/86pc60VQ6bQ/s320/Opel+final+025.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ39lKXHieI/AAAAAAAAALc/LVHFk_peU_s/s1600/Opel+final+012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ39lKXHieI/AAAAAAAAALc/LVHFk_peU_s/s320/Opel+final+012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ3-wK2SG8I/AAAAAAAAALg/FVVajeqoSPI/s1600/Opel+final+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJ3-wK2SG8I/AAAAAAAAALg/FVVajeqoSPI/s320/Opel+final+018.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-14006484956433606592010-09-21T20:08:00.002-05:002010-09-24T09:27:45.796-05:00KatyushaKatyusha mounted on the Zis-151. Italeri/ Testors 1/35 scale kit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlWnVZ-dqI/AAAAAAAAAEs/2PUUVJK9k6M/s1600/Katyusha+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlWnVZ-dqI/AAAAAAAAAEs/2PUUVJK9k6M/s320/Katyusha+022.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>This is slated for a bit more work in the near future. Needs more "clutter"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlb-aQ4etI/AAAAAAAAAFc/Xb_CtaUGTAs/s1600/Katyusha+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlb-aQ4etI/AAAAAAAAAFc/Xb_CtaUGTAs/s320/Katyusha+018.jpg" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcPfy92oI/AAAAAAAAAFk/QdVzb1f_s94/s1600/Katyusha+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcPfy92oI/AAAAAAAAAFk/QdVzb1f_s94/s320/Katyusha+039.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcheRx5fI/AAAAAAAAAFs/B7WARPc3dbw/s1600/Katyusha+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcheRx5fI/AAAAAAAAAFs/B7WARPc3dbw/s320/Katyusha+013.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcx5MBwMI/AAAAAAAAAF0/370MykWkO8s/s1600/Katyusha+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlcx5MBwMI/AAAAAAAAAF0/370MykWkO8s/s320/Katyusha+015.jpg" /></a></div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1461376979902000537.post-54710504938453914612010-09-21T19:54:00.005-05:002010-09-25T20:49:26.756-05:00Stug III Ausf.GStug III Ausf. G. Dragons 1/35 Imperial Series kit. It has the Eduard PE set added, which was a large improvement to the model.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlTvqRNzLI/AAAAAAAAAEE/1_AmPw3yAyM/s1600/StuG+Final+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJlTvqRNzLI/AAAAAAAAAEE/1_AmPw3yAyM/s320/StuG+Final+019.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJldrIO0nJI/AAAAAAAAAF8/7O70zzl4Qx8/s1600/StuG+Final+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJldrIO0nJI/AAAAAAAAAF8/7O70zzl4Qx8/s320/StuG+Final+014.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJld2laJ7dI/AAAAAAAAAGE/KFVB6Iiq5Rs/s1600/StuG+Final+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJld2laJ7dI/AAAAAAAAAGE/KFVB6Iiq5Rs/s320/StuG+Final+017.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJleBhP1qfI/AAAAAAAAAGM/vdA87r7OKL0/s1600/StuG+Final+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJleBhP1qfI/AAAAAAAAAGM/vdA87r7OKL0/s320/StuG+Final+024.jpg" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJleK09woVI/AAAAAAAAAGU/sPdZsxmUXrM/s1600/StuG+Final+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_KExFBV2B-PU/TJleK09woVI/AAAAAAAAAGU/sPdZsxmUXrM/s320/StuG+Final+013.jpg" /></a></div>Dale Ehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07119906198157719063noreply@blogger.com0