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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. |
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| Subject: | Re: Panzer IV J (late) kits and conversions |  |
| Date: | Mar 13, 2007 |
| From: | John Martin | |
Paul
First, how late and how final. There is quite a jump from the TAM early Ausf J and the late/final. If you want a late, you will need to make hull extensions for the eyelets in lieu of bolt-on towing hooks. Also, Panther-type flame dampers in lieu of exhaust system. You will need to change from 4 return rollers (no option with the TAM hull) to 3 return rollers. Finally, you will need the tubular mounts for the Thoma skirts in lieu of the brackets (and no skirts) that come with the TAM kit. You should not have to modify the turret roof as the TAM kit clearly shows the hump for the increased thickness. However, I believe the final J's had a Panther-type pop-up cupola hatch rather than hinged.
That said, I recommend the following (and based on what I have done).
Get a DML Shanghai J kit - you can use many parts from it like the return rollers once you cut off the ones on the TAM hull; the turret hatch, the flame-dampers, and the increased bow armor.
You may want to consider an engine. I used the Verlinden kit (1294). You should make sure it sits a bit low or the hull top will not sit tight.
I really like the Aber photoetch sets - there are several (35013 - standard components for Pz IV J; 35A06 - turret skirts; 35A67 - upper hull screens; 35A66 - Thoma skirts; and a lathed barrel (I used a Jordi but I understand that Aber makes one specific for the late J).
If you get the DML kit, it has individual links with solid guide horns and that may suffice. Otherwise, get some Friulmodel, which will have solid horns anyway.
On my late J I placed non-rubber (resilient) road wheels on the first two axles of each side as I understand this was common late in the war. I also used a few Warriors "used" road wheels - not sure if they're available anymore, and a turret detail set (63811) mainly for the bustle hatch.
If you really want to doll this tank up you will need lots of leaves - again, I like the Aber stuff.
Sorry I rattled on, you most likely know more about this stuff than I do as I am pretty new yet.
My thoughts anyway.
cheers
John |
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