|
|
Forums - Modelling / Kits |
The kits forum is for the discussion of model kits. Typically questions on availability or certain subjects and quality of existing kits are posted here. Short reviews are good here too. |
| Topics | 1240 |
| Messages | 7573 |
|
|
| Subject: | Re: Verlinden BergePanther update set |  |
| Date: | Aug 19, 2005 |
| From: | John Martin | |
Pete
I have used this update on two attempts to make an accurate bergepanther. As a warning and omen, note that the photo on the box is backwards. I even tried the Italeri kit SOB, but quickly gave up as my references increased.
Before I get going, there is a rumor that Tiger Model Works is in the process of creating a bergepanther conversion for the new DML panthers.
First, why Verlinden chose to make a conversion for the Italeri kit is questionable with the Tamiya and DML kits available at the time it was released. By the way, the Italeri bergepanther is out of production right now.
I chose to use the conversion first on the DML panther G and currently the Tamiya G - anyone will do.
After 2 years effort on the DML, I set it aside to start over.
There is a characteristic rise in the bow of the panther when the turret was removed. Only the Tamiya kit allows this because the axles are separate.
The Verlinden 2001 kit contains parts for the driver-radio operator compartment and the winch. Everything else is just fluff. Included are the battery boxes for the tank version. To my shock and disbelief there is no mounting bracket for the rear of the winch. Your on your own. Also missing are the 3 fuel tanks and battery mounts, which are not hard to scratch-build but spacing is critical between the winch mounts and the upper deck. (I ended up modifying Lego blocks for the gas tanks). Also, the connecting gear box for the drive-shafts is cast into the floor (the biggest piece). This is applicable only to the tank version and should be cut out. However, once the winch is mounted with the intregral gearbox, it is impossible to attach the drive shafts. There are no control levers (immediately behind the radio-operator) nor is the jump seat over the rear of the transmission that is readily visible.
The take-home message is the conversion is usable but barely. The floor must be sanded razor thin and make sure to keep it square (flat). Also, placement of the engine bulkhead is critical (the floor is a bit too long and needs to be trimmed. Finally, the placement of the transmission in the rear mounting holes is important to lining everything up. Note that the radio unit is for the tank version and the upper deck mounts need to be removed.
As for the casting, in my first attempt to use this conversion I discovered a slight warping to the winch pieces especially the "L" shaped bracket for the gears - so again keep everything square. If not it will really be obvious when you finally drop it into the panther.
I'm sorry I carried on so - I have a full conversion review written and am in the process of getting photos to go with it. I am surprised that nobody has written a review or asked about it.
Please let me know if I can provide more information.
John |
| |
|
|
|
