Italeri’s 1/35 scale T-34/76

[mel.]

Wow! It's been a while. Finally able to get back to this built. I must admit that the thought of building these tracks really kept me from completing this built in a timely manner. I think I'm recharged and ready to give it another go. Here's what I've done so far:

[wbill76]

Nice to see you back at this one Mel! Tracks look good.

[bbd468]

Hiya Mel! Great to see an update here fella, tracks look awesome. Whats your opinion of em.....thumbs up or down?

[mel.]

Hi Fellas, I bought two sets on eBay a few months ago (it seemed a idea at the time). The box showed a pretty straight forward method of putting them together and it seemed easy enough. In actuality, the process was a bit more difficult than I had imagined requiring sanding and precise alignment of the pieces in order to link the individual tracks. in all fairness, I can chalk my issues to a lack of experience with workable tracks and perhaps my lack of dexterity - A regular "Mr. All thumbs." I must admit that since my hiatus I have kind of broken the code on the assembly process and have made better progress that I had anticipated. I'm done with one side of the tracks and I'm almost done with the other. I'm hoping to finish this build within the next few days.

[deafpanzer]

Looking forward to the pictures! Somebody has to start somewhere on something new like workable tracks for you... it takes practice and experience and you will enjoy when you deal with them again.

[mel.]

The tracks are completed!!! I test fitted them to make sure they fit, the sprocket is not glued and I'm still playing around to get the proper sag on the tracks. I've been doing a little research on the internet to get an idea. Next; painting and weathering the tracks. Suggestions are welcome.







While taking a sanity break from assembling the tracks I tried this product from Humbrol, is it some sort of metalizer which you simple apply with a brush, wait 30 mi minutes and buff with a soft cloth. I really like the effect on the sprockets.



More detail work whilst on break from assembling the tracks. Painted the tow cable Tamiya Brown, then wash it with AK's Rust Streak. I then did a dabbing with a sponge using Russian Green and Vallejo Off white to resemble the remains of the original color and the white wash.

[bbd468]

Another fine update Mel, looks real nice.

[dupes]

Whoah, that is hot! Love the streaky whitewash.

[mel.]

Thanks fellas! Any advice on painting the tracks?

[Deleted]

Looking great!

[mel.]

Howdy Guys! I decided to try a little "mapping" on the whitewash. It's supposed to add nuance and interest to the whitewash. I used oil paint since I did not have white enamel available (added it to my ever growing shopping list).

[wbill76]

Looks like the mapping effort has worked Mel. Adds some depth to the finish.

[bbd468]

Mel, fantastic buddy! Looks right on to me....luv it!

[Deleted]

looks really nice great work on those tracks too

[deafpanzer]

Superb mapping work! Never tried that but that's something I want to try next time on my future WW builds.

[mel.]

Another update. Almost finished - waiting for after market grab handles to arrive in the mail, the ones with the kit were broken in pieces. I went ahead and added a little more weathering this time with mud splatters to the front and rear hull area (AK Fresh Mud). Also used AK Interactive Dark Mud effects applied with a paint brush. Also added a bit to the tracks.

[tonylee-Rest In Peace]

I think Kaizen tracks are pretty good myself and if I could find a dealer here stateside I would buy more of them.

All is lookin good
Tony lee

[mel.]

Thanks for the comment. I agree on the tracks. I had a dickens of a time building my first set (operator error!) but overall they are pretty good. I got mine on eBay from someone in Hong Kong, paid about $15.00 not counting shipping.

[bbd468]

Nice muddification Mel!  Great T-34 my man!

[mel.]

Thanks fellows. waiting for grab handles I bought on eBay so that I can finish this puppy.

[4bogreen]

Looking good here Mel! Great weathering! Tracks are looking very nice!

[bullardino]

What a nice result

[mel.]

Finally received the after market grab handles purchased on eBay (I found them on eBay by sheer luck) since unfortunately, the ones that came with the kit were broken. These ones were worth the wait. Not too difficult to put together and they look pretty good. Have to paint and weather them before installing.

[bullardino]

Nice aftermarket, didn't know it

[rbaer]

Those should look nice, and compliment an already nice build.

[mel.]

Thanks Rbaer.

Luigi, I had been trying to figure out how to best replicate the distinct grab handles of the T-34 Model 1943 Hex turret and luckily, as well as unexpectedly, came across these ones.

[mel.]

A quick update:

- Painted, weathered and installed grab handles on turret and hull

- Added hull machinegun

Almost done with this baby!

[wbill76]

Very nice Mel! The grab handles are a good upgrade for this one for sure.

[bbd468]

Mel, ya got a splendid piece of armor right there....Love it!!!

[deafpanzer]

It is really looking fantastic... just love the weary winter camo and rusty tracks!