|
|
Modeller Build Logs
Building Luchs #41 of the 4th Pz.Div. |
| By Paul A. Owen | | Started: | Jun 28, 2008 | | Updated: | Jul 19, 2008 |
|
This is another of my "Shelf Queen" blogs that I started a couple of years ago. I want to get it done so I am starting my blog over again.
The kit is the Tasca Panzer II Ausf.L "Lynx", the 4th Pz.Div. version. I was adding an interior but the lack of god references has killed that dream. I intend to build tank "41" as it appeared in the winter of 1943/44 with the 4th Panzer Division on the Eastern Front. The kit is generally very good, but there are a few areas that can be improved. I'll be focusing on these areas.
I have been collecting references on the Luchs for a long time now. In addition to _every_ available book I have a collection of unique photographs too. With the publication of the recent Panzer Tracts 2-2 book there are finally accurate scale plans _and_ information about what is beneath those engine deck grills.
I also am taking next week off so now is about as good time as any to get this project and blog completed.
|
|
|
|
| Lower Hull Spaced Armour | Jul 13, 2008 |
Luchs of the 4th Panzer Division had spaced armour plates added to their lower hull fronts. This was done most likely by the divisions workshop. They appear on Luchs that were first issued to the division in the summer of 1943. Replacement vehicles issued in 1944 did not seem to have these plates added.
There is some variation in the plates, some are shorter, narrower, etc. Most appear to have an additional bottom piece added. The plates appear to be welded in place to small "blocks" (of metal) to the hull front. There is also a lot of variation in this too. So referring to references for a specific Luchs is prudent. Luchs #41 appears to have it's plate pretty much in a "normal" position and width. There is one photograph of #41 in Ground Power no.114 that shows the front.
I chose to make a new plate as the Tasca part appeared too thick to me and the inner surfaces scalloped. I made a new plate from 0.0150" sheet styrene and the mounting "blocks" are just rectangular stock cut to size. I intended to only tack-glue the new part to the hull front for this photograph but now it won't come off... I am not looking forward to painting and weathering the space between the plate and hull now!
Another detail worth correcting is the lower hull to glacis plate joint. In the Tasca kit there is a definite step which is not correct. I added a strip off 0.010 × 0.020 stock to simulate the top of the lower hull plate. There is a thin gap now that will receive a putty weld bead.
|
 |
|
|
