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Modeller Build Logs
Building the Soviet T-35 |
| By Daniel LeClair | | Started: | Jan 30, 2006 | | Updated: | Feb 23, 2007 |
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Tanks have always fascinated me, and the more exotic the better. So, when I saw the ICM "Battle of Moscow, 1941" kit, which features the multi-turreted T-35, in a hobby shop recently, it was a no-brainer to buy it. Despite the fact that I knew nothing about the manufacturer, or hadn't done an armor model for nearly 25 years!
As it turns out this is an excellent kit, loads of nicely-cast parts with very little flashing. And, since I'm a glutton for punishment, I thought I'd blog my efforts at building it. Although it looks like it would finish nicely straight out of the box, I intend to detail it with some of the aftermarket parts that are available:
- Friulmodel ATL-75 metal tracks (the kit comes with separately-molded track links)
- Eduard 35316 photo-etched detail set
- Replacement barrels - Armo, Jordi Rubio, and Model Point all make them
As reference, I will be ordering Militaria 159 - T-35 (book). If anyone knows of other references for this unusual vehicle, please let me know.
I expect this project will take some time, so bear with me. Meanwhile, since this is my first project here on Track-Net, feel free to check out my website for a little info about me. |
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| Chapter 2 - Road wheels (and more road wheels) | Feb 2, 2006 |
Because of the length of the tank, there is a mess of road wheels and other suspension parts to put together. Four pairs of bogie wheel assemblies: two suspension arms, two springs, four wheels, four wheel caps per pair - 96 pieces to assemble those alone! Plus mud guards once they go onto the hull.
The wheels required a little sanding to remove sprue and seam marks but were otherwise clean. The springs have very light seams, and there was the occasional sink mark on the ends of the arms; I don't think they will be visible on the completed model. The sprockets had punch marks on one half, which needed sanding, although I think they will be hidden in final assembly.
Unfortunately the suspension arms required a little trial and error to assemble, as the wheels are easy to get out of alignment and the pins on the arms don't fit tightly. The best way I found to handle them was to put the arm/wheels together, then start gluing the arm from the bottom (as a sort of anchor). I use Tamiya liquid cement, which sets quickly; once that is done you can double-check alignment before gluing the wings of the arms. Hold the assembly together with a rubber band while the glue dries.
The twelve pairs of return rollers went together easily; there is a very tight fit between each, so make sure they snap together and seat properly. |
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