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RedRoo
Kerry COX (RedRoo)
AU

TAKOM. King Tiger.

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A really good habit to have. lable all your trees with the corresponding letter of the tree, mainly for easy access to all you will need. 
 

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But it will still take some studying of the images to get a real good idea of what is meant to happen. Just be a little more attentive. 
 

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That little part. G 28 is VITAL. As it is part of the steering rod connections as the build proceeds. 
 

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GREATER care than usual is required if these parts are to be successfully installed. Be extra careful. 
 

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Some parts can be attached before the internal side walls are attached, but just make sure you test fit it all and that you have made allowances for these allready attached parts. 
 

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And as I say in the following image. These shock struts are made up of different parts and you have to be paying attention to where and how they are positioned before you glue. 
 

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These shock struts are all totally different from each other on both sides, so be paying attention to what you do and dry fit everything as much as you can before Mr Glue is asked onto the construction site.  
 

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Check thoroughly for all parts to be attached, as there are some you may think are 'un necessary', but you will be wrong. All these items are crutial to support other attachments at a later stage of the build. BE WARNED. !! 
 

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I am removing all the 'ejection pin' marks where possible. But note the 'off set' of the clutch and brake pedals. This is because it was so 'cluttered' in there and it is in the only place available. 
 

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And. Remove ALL seam lines. Of which there are a lot, but they detract from an overall perfect looking build. 
 

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The two pipes sticking up here will eventually be married with two long line pipes at the end of the engine build. 
 

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The compleat unit with long line oil pipes in place and exhaust pipes drilled to max before collapse. 
 

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The long line oil pipes will fit perfectly if all other parts were in the places they belong. 
 

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The tracks come with a coil of brass wire for the pins to be made. Here I have them ready. Snipped with some nail cutters and just a touch of super glue and it is ready for the model. 
 

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Rolled up one way and the other image following is rolled the other way. 
 

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Now for the marvel of model parts going together in a beautiful way, following the instructions "to the letter". 
 

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This part moves for the sole purpose of locating on the bottom of the grub screw boot, so make sure you don't glue it into place before you install the gun. 
 

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The crank handle in the middle is to elevate the gun or lower the barrel. Note also a shaft that is attached to the gear drive motor. this is to turn the whole turret. 
 

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The round container that looks like an oil can with a spout is actually the "Fume extractor", this end of the hose is attached later to a 'bin' on the turret ring. 
 

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At the very top of the assembly is the turret drive cog gear. 
 

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There are only two attachment points for the whole turret floor. Those being the frame with the drive cog and the steel plate that stops the expended shell from falling into the lower section of the wheel well 
 

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All the PE is a perfect fit with all the cut outs locating exactly where they are required. 
 

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The detail of the interior is exceptional. Nothing is left out from what I have seen of the inside images of the actual turret. 
 

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There is a little yellow mark here too. That is on the fume extractor hose that rises up to be attached to the bottom of the 'bin'. 
 

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Now the assembly of the gun components and recoil dampners. 
 

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The hydraulic line on the face of the breach is attached to a control valve on the inside of the shield plate. 
 

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Here is a clearer shot of that hydraulic line join. 
 

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One of two Mg40's which ate mounted on each side of the barrel. 
 

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The right side Mg40. 
 

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Well. All my sub assemblies are done and packed, and now its off to the chop shop to see what I can rustle up. 🙂 
 

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Mmmmmm. I wonder if I can remember which is which. :-O 
 

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Just the tracks alone weigh twice as much as the kit. LOL 🙂 
 

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The "First cut is the deepest". Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh 
 

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My weapon of choice. A slow and painstaking way of cutting out what I need removed, but I am just taking my time no rush. 
 

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It seems a waste, but the result I hope, will far outweigh the sacrafice of such a beautiful moulding/  
 

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Once the cut has been made, I trimmed to the line I drew as a guide and cleaned off any burrs for a clean edge. 
 

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This cut was done BEFORE the second plate was meant to be installed. As to try and cut the double thickness would have been impossible. 
 

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I now have to cut the inner sidewall to the shape I have created and this will be cut before it is glued in place so that the trimming of the unrequired area will be easier to do. 
 

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The paints I will be using are not what TAKOM recomend, but I am comfortable with this brand and it's çharacrteistics'. 
 

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The removal of the parts went better than expected. 
 

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I scribed a line in the plastic for me to follow, rather than a pen or pencil mark. 
 

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There are two layers of plastic I had to 'marry' here. Cutting the first lot out then laying in the internal bulkhead and whittling that down to match the original outside shape I had cut. 
 

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Now I start laying in all the sub assemblies, like the transfer gear/differential, making sure it is in the correct position. Also, the drivers seat is now installed. 
 

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Note where the drive shafts meet the drive wheel housing, it is a perfect match, showing the differential is in it's correct position. 
 

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The engine compartment. Made up of the Internal rear bulkhead and the side walls. 
 

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The first cut. Now the whittling begins to get the remaining excess removed to the line. 
 

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A test fit to see where I can make any alterations or make improvements, as I really don't want to cut the turret internal ring at all. 
 

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The gap between the armour 'plate' will be filled. 
 

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The left fuel tank has been chopped, but will be made look like it has a level of half full. 
 

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The parts just drop into place with no wrestling or jostling the part to fit. 
 

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I am really happy that it has gone as well as it has. Not knowing what to expect, All of it was a pleasure to build. 
 

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The other fabulous thing about Mr Surfacer 1000 is that you loose NO detail at all. If anything, it makes all the detail even more pronounced. 
 

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Even the white metal tracks look more impressive than they allready are. 
 

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Now for something completly different. Masking is removed and time for the fine detail work here to be done. 
 

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Some have had problems with getting the wheel lay out right. I have printed on each arm an "A" or a "B" and the same with the road wheels. and it goes together perfectly. Keep tabs on these items by bagging them with the corresponding letters and how many 
 

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WIP. And that is about the long and tall of it. Not happy with seeing the engine miss out on being seen, I decided to extend the 'modifications' a bit more. 
 

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There IS a lot being destroted for the effect I am wanting to achieve, but I figure. In for a penny, in for a Pound. The paint can be stripped down in a hydrosonic bath and keep pluging away. 
 

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Either way. It's a 'cutaway' and that depends on just how far you want to go. I want to go as far as I can. 
 

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All I can see is this on a Tamiya turntable either in my display case or, on a competition table.  
 

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Interior white with a wash of black yet to come that will help to high light the fittings and cables. 
 

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Thankfully, the whole gun pivots up and out of the way. Allowing better access to the components to allow fine painting of components. 
 

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You will note, there is a compleat lack of seam lines an any components. I hate them with a passion and will spend a LONG time eradicating them. 
 

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Turret all nice and clean and I do not propose to 'weather' or chip any parts. As it is a 'display' model that would be seen on the manufacturers table I believe. 
 

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Hatch levers in place. The gun will go in later just before 'close up' time comes around. 
 

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The engine bay will still be rather concealed, but what will be seen will be well detailed and painted. 
 

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My ammunition 'packs'. Wrapped in parrafilm'M', and it beats the hell out of trying to hand paint every part of the stowage racks. 
 

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Stripping off the parrafilm and we see that the paint was even and no overspray. 
 

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Fist cab off the rank. I am using AK 'Interactice' tube paints for the brass and copper and steel. Broshing ot on still gets a nice gleam to it. It is also 'pollishable'. 
 

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The beauty of the AK paints is that it works prefectly with the 'dry brushing' tecnique. Note the copper 'compression' rings and steel tips on the rounds. 
 

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This is what I am using to paint my shells that glossy brass.  
 

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As you can see, it is a paste and it spreads a L O N G way. Note the 'copper' on the 'compression' rings on the projectiles. 
 

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A 'flat' brush is the key. 
 

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Keep brushing it and it will thin out to be just perfect. It will take some time to get an even coat, but fully worthwhile when you get good results. 
 

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I am going to paint the red 'matt', as the gloss just isn't looking good. 
 

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I just HAD to hollow out the connector ends as it would have lost some of it's ' feeling' if I just left them blank.  
 

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I do like the way the engine compartment turned out. It would have been a crying shame to have all this most amazing detail all lost from view, and now I have done as best I can, I do feel justified in hacking it to pieces, as it has turned out ok i think 
 

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A 'light' wash of black has bought out some nice detail. 
 

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All the tails are in place now. 
 

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All ready to be installed after the camo paint job and these are really heavy too. 🙂 
 

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I was really not happy with the 'overhang', so I decided to remove this section to keep with the 'flow' of the cut, or, 'uniformity' if you like. 🙂 
 

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Wanting the cut away to have some sense of purpose, and even educational, I reclaimed the disgarded parts and adapted parts of them for the continuity aspect, rather than have a "Chopped and hacked" look. 
 

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This is to make it look like there was a blow torch used in the cut and just have sections remain rather than create a jumble of a wreck, but something that would sit on the Krupp owners desk for all to see just how good the German engineers are. 
 

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I just could NOT leave out the ball ammunition magazine holders, as this is after all, part of the overall make up of the beast. 
 

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This is now cut to shape to help reveal the sectioned fuel tank and where the tow wires "ended". 
 

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Be they leather or heavy duty canvas, they now look the part, even though you would have to turn it up side down to see them. hahahahah 
 

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Now comes the time when I can finally be content and say "Close up". Just a photographic check to see if all is in place and how I want it to look. 
 

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I am still not sure if the Germans had 'red' fire extinguishers, but for the 'look', it was done with the viewer in mind. 
 

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The even meeting of the two surfaces was a good outcome, but as you see here, it is not quite 'together', but since the image was taken, that gap has been removed. 
 

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Every piece is designed to have a good join, and even though it may look like I had a problem, all turned out ok with some more glue and a bit more physical pressure to make things right. 
 

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I pondered leaving the whole radiator box in place but it would have meant that the engine would not have been visible, so I did more cutting and added some mesh to replicate the radiator core. 
 

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The engine radiator cover has since been 'corrected' and the edges of the cut cleaned up to a more acceptable look with no rough ends or edges. 
 

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Track time, and all the road wheels and baring covers. 
 

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Everything is as it should be, ready for the threading of the white metal tracks. 
 

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And. May I now present the King Tiger after surgery. All that it needs is the paint job and something to display it in.  
 

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There is something missing and I will attempt to rectify that with compleating the outside. 
 

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My thinking is. Ïf your going to build a cut away, then "build it". And it was the track links that made it look incomplete, as they are on the other side, so why not all the way around.? And if a bit gets in the way, cut it off. 
 

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I have cut the track link too. As it would look really odd if the whole link was attached and not 'included' in the cut. 
 

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It was not that hard to get the size and shape, being white metal, it was as soft as mild vinyl to cut. 
 

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I almost forgot the turret floor decking, but just two little bits of red made a huge difference. 
 

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This was by far, the most difficult part to shape and mesh to look like it was all part of the build. 
 

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I have made the rear deck fully accessable. 
 

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First inspection plate removed, but usually hinged. 
 

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The next series of images will be the various applied cammo patterns in the required colours. 
 

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This is the colour scheme on the side of the box. But there are two more available that have more colours involved, but this "Yellow Snow"is just the base over which all other colours go. 
 

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I masked off the red paint with "Micro Scale"mask, and with slips of papaer, I was able to keep the interior free of any óverspray'. 
 

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A nice even coat that has no soft spots or runs. 
 

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The two other colours are a soft olive green and a soft red brown. 
 

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Now you can see why I have gone with the yellow snow base, as it beats the hell out of trying to 'free hand'all three and get good demarcation between the other colours. 
 

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I have my air brush set at 7psi and that is just enough to get a good flow happening for one pass application with a paint that is still a bit thicker than milk and no overspray. 
 

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Except for a couple of touch up's on the red paint, I have pleasure anouncing that TAKOM King Tiger............FINISHED. 👍 
 

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The very last add on. An MG34. FINISHED. 
 

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Bart. Thank you for spotting the seam lines, as now..............All gone. hehehehehehe 
 

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No double vission folks. I have been doing this from the very start of my hobby, and I now have a good collection. 
 

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I do not lie. hahahahaha 
 

Comments

28 August 2017, 08:20
Spanjaard
i will certainly follow this one. less shiny than the Mercedes for sure😉 but for sure a build to follow closely 🙂
1 September 2017, 22:35
Kerry COX
I am doing all the parts as 'Sub assemblies', so that when it comes to working out the surgery needed, I will have a clear deck you might say.
As it would be a shame to put all the bits in place and then have to wreck so much when the chop starts.
The whole build is just a kit within a kit within a kit,..... add infinitum. !!!
The assembly of the turret mechanics is awesome, and if you ever get one. The instructions are relatively clear as in images of the parts required, but the steps to get the result are exact and MUST be believed, as there are no mistakes that have plagued me at all, and it all fits perfectly.
The gun breach and all the fittings, including the machine guns either side of the barrel fit as they should.
The images I am taking when I post them will have points and comments as to what to look out for.
Fun I am having I said. 🙂
2 September 2017, 02:47
Alistair Graham
im going to follow this one, ive been considering a King for a while, quite a few manufacturers now to choose from, but you always do a splendid job, so im in.
2 September 2017, 08:01
David Thor
In on this one!
2 September 2017, 10:36
Kerry COX
Alistair, Thank you for your faith in me mate. 🙂 This is going to be either a roaring success or one big pile of grey plastic and brass quivering in the corner. 🙁
The sub assemblies have been pure bliss, and that they are little gems in their own right. The engine, the crew stations and all the gear associated with the gun mount, the gun it's self is a doozey, as so many things can go wrong if you don't read the instruction diagrams well. 🙁 The kit PE is EXACT, and no stuff up's with it either, a big relief. 👍.
2 September 2017, 12:02
Kerry COX
David. I do hope you have a good supply of beer and pop corn, as it will be a fair while that this will take. 🙁 Welcome. 👍
2 September 2017, 12:04
David Thor
Hey Kerry, yes I've got supplies!😉
2 September 2017, 12:40
Kerry COX
David. That's good to know mate. I must tell you, I have built a few kits in my time but this one is on a par with the Zoukie-Mura quality. Just beautiful how it is all thought out. The pics I am taking I think will bare this out. 🙂 👍
2 September 2017, 15:16
Thomas Mayer
Same kit as I have! Will gladly follow your steps, matey!
2 September 2017, 17:11
Kerry COX
Thomas I am all excited to know that. 🙂 I will PM you on some aspects I have found really interesting. 👍
2 September 2017, 21:11
Anthony Flanagan
You have my attention...yet again! Don't spare any details.
3 September 2017, 00:15
Kerry COX
Anthony. I will endeavour to bring as much detail and some processes to light as the build intensifies.👍
I am yet to post a swag of images that have explanatory texts within the image, but I will add supplementary comments on the bar space below each image. Stuff I may have omitted to mention on the image. 🙂
3 September 2017, 00:42
Thomas Mayer
Picture 29: indeed it´s the co-driver´s MG, Kezza.
3 September 2017, 08:27
Thomas Mayer
Picture 77: Kerry, I am afraid the hooks are glued backward to the exhaust armour. I could be wrong, but maybe you will check your refs?
3 September 2017, 08:33
Thomas Mayer
I am more than interested to see how you are going to paint all those parts after assembly. So far I have chickened out and try to assemble and paint most parts as sub-assemblies. My main reference book is David Parker´s book Super King. That´s a mighty tome showing how he did Trumpeter´s 1/16 scale King Tiger, adding an enormous amount of corrections and improvements!
3 September 2017, 08:36
Joerg R.
Nice build Kerry👍 Do you have had any problems with the angle of the suspensionarms? There are some build up's in the net, who had problems?
3 September 2017, 11:38
Kerry COX
Joerg, as of the present moment, I have not done anything with the suspension arms as yet, but I don't anticipate any issues, as the dry fitting I did when I was cutting the required ones according to the manual, they all fitted as they should. But gluing them in may be different. 👍
3 September 2017, 11:48
David Thor
That´s alot of detail. Nice and clean build!
3 September 2017, 12:57
Anthony Flanagan
Unbelievable! That's is an incredible kit and an incredible build. Thanks Kerry!
4 September 2017, 00:03
Kerry COX
Anthony, Thank you my friend. This is the first attempt at a 'cut away', and thank goodness it is not as daunting as I thought it was going to be. 🙂
Just gently gently I am finding is the way. But doing all the smaller builds that can be painted separately and then just 'dropped' in is the key to keeping one's sanity. 🙂 🙂 🙂
4 September 2017, 00:26
Jens
yes yes, the Maybach already at the time for headlines worried, only the Maybach in the G4 transplanted and then a Panzerchen drausbert
I will watch, the slaughter festival is a show for itself 👍 👍 👍
4 September 2017, 00:26
Kerry COX
James. Thank you buddy. 🙂
The painting will be the big challenge really.:-~
The chop has been a really fun thing to do, as I am continually doing little snips and scrapes, and I have also decided to cut the fuel tank in half and have that looking like it has fluid.
But what gets me the most, is even though a fair bit has been removed, it is when I do a dry fit and all the bits still just drop into place without any fuss. 🙂
A great kit. 👍
4 September 2017, 03:00
David Thor
The cut-out looks good! Can´t wait to see you paint all this! o_o
4 September 2017, 10:05
Kerry COX
David. It is starting to terrify me now. LOL :-0
Only kidding. hahaha
The work yet to be done before I start painting stuff is still quite a bit, especially 'finalising' what I need to mask off and the mind set. "We have lift off". 😉
4 September 2017, 10:10
David Thor
Well, i look forward to it. Especially since you document all your steps so nicely for us! 🙂
4 September 2017, 10:16
Bart Goesaert
looks good so far. will you close the gap with some styrene for the front gap? Maybe an idea not to align fully to the frontplate, but leave a small spacing there with regards to the removed zimmerit?
4 September 2017, 10:51
Kerry COX
Bart. A good call and I follow exactly what you are saying. Thank you for your observant eye on that matter and I will do exactly that. 👍
Cheers Bart. 🙂 👍
4 September 2017, 11:21
Kerry COX
David. I do appreciate your kind comments on my way of getting the info to you all. It is something I wish all modellers would do. Better than sitting and guessing what is in an image. 🙂 👍 Cheers and thanks.
4 September 2017, 11:23
Patrick Hagelstein
Man, Kerry, this is hardcore! I have missed this whole build somehow but I'm in untill finished! You have got to be very confident to take a saw and go at it with an almost completely finished kit. Hang in there!
5 September 2017, 03:00
Kerry COX
The saw came at the last moment Patrick. I have looked at as many sites and youtube stuff to feel it was worthwhile. More for me so I can sit and look at it in my quiet times and say. I did it.!!!
5 September 2017, 06:16
Bart Goesaert
I agree about Mr Surfacer, It smells and can be difficult to get through your AB, but it is one of the most versatile products for modelling (I also use it as a filler, to replicate casting structure, to get high .... oh.. ssssjjjjjjt you didn't hear that last one 😉 )

Maybe a small tip with regards to the tracks, they also have a Mr 1000 black primer... perfect base before weathering... enjoy painting the rest of this begemoth...
5 September 2017, 06:26
Kerry COX
Bart. It all went well mate. Thinned down with acetone and dries in record time. 🙂
5 September 2017, 09:56
Bryn Crandell
WOW! Looking good so far. It is just amazing how many pieces there are in that kit.
5 September 2017, 15:41
Kerry COX
Bryn, thank you my friend. 🙂 But for a 1/35 kit it is astounding what is there, and 99% of it is used in the build too.👍
I reckon that the real challenge would be building the kit tracks that actually work, even though the idler and drive wheels don't turn. 🙂
But to drill out the pin pivot points are just begging for some one to do it.
5 September 2017, 20:21
Dan M
The kit is impressive! I just saw your album and I'm hooked. Great idea with the cut-away.
7 September 2017, 10:10
Bart Goesaert
dayum..; I've been away for 1 day, and it's almost finished 😉

With regards to the weathering, I can agree, but I think I would apply a slight wash for the details to pop up once closed...
7 September 2017, 10:12
Jens
OMG, which looks fantastic, the construction stages to see, what will be the finished model, as in the Erimitage St.Petersburg / RU, you go 6 days there and did not see everything, your tiger would probably be synonymous year to capture and appreciate all beauty and perfection 🙂 🙂
7 September 2017, 10:56
Kerry COX
Dan, as soon as I saw the box art with the cut away, I thought, "I could do that. hehehe🙂
Bart, the 'wash' you were talking about has been done mate. As I didn't want a chipped and war weary look, but the wash I applied did bring out that detail. As to the speed. Well, the cutting and trimming was quick, but now I am into the tidying up all the loose ends, it will be a long process to make sure I get all I need to get done slowly and methodically.
The ammunition will take a while. 🙂
7 September 2017, 11:07
Rhys Young
Wow, what a build, I'm in!
7 September 2017, 14:59
Kerry COX
Rhys, Welcome to the mad house mate. I am trying to keep my sanity, but unfortunately, the glued fingers and paint fumes have me hooked. 🙂
7 September 2017, 19:35
Thomas Mayer
Wow! These ammo rounds look fantastic! Indeed the racks, that are moulded to the rounds, are the major let-down of this kit for me. Absolutely NOT up to date´s standard! Buuhh, Takom!
Kerry, what kind of brush did you use for the tube colour? So far I only have one of those, and struggle to see them useful for my modelling...
8 September 2017, 07:39
Kerry COX
Thomas.I am so glad you asked mate. hehehe 🙂
I used the AK interactive tube paint 'brass', and also the 'copper' for the compression rings on the rounds.
It is applied with a flat brush that is produced by Tamiya. I will post some images of the brush and the paint so you are fully aware of how I did it, AND, it is pollishable. !!!
8 September 2017, 07:53
Kerry COX
OK. Now I have posted the images of all you need to know about brass paint and the ammunition. 🙂 👍
8 September 2017, 08:11
Thomas Mayer
Kerry, thank you, buddy! What would I do without your wisdom?😉
Notes taken!
8 September 2017, 14:27
Joerg R.
Kerry, nice color for the ammo, but remember that not all grenades were Brass, min. the half load had these green cartridges.
tanks-encyclopedia.c..r-VI_Konigstiger.php
8 September 2017, 16:54
Kerry COX
Gentlemen, Good morning and thank you for your info link.🙂
Joerg, I am aware of the differences and I will accordingly be able to make that happen with the side mounted rounds I am yet to paint.👍
Thomas, I may have mentioned the AK interactive paints before on an other build, but I find them so easy to use and the results are always great. I also have aluminium and silver which work just as well. 🙂
Cheers lads. 👍
8 September 2017, 18:29
Thomas Mayer
Kezza, this is maybe the most fast build of this kit! The last pictures also are a joy to watch!
9 September 2017, 13:47
Kerry COX
It may be also the little else to do with my time Thomas. As I am a 'retired' gentleman.🙂
But believe me, I am taking it slow to make sure I have everything right, because the last thing I want is for someone to find fault with my work. :-/
9 September 2017, 20:21
Kerry COX
BTW, TAKOM do have a parts replacement service, as I have ordered the tree "L" from them and the part will cost me $3.00Au and $7.50Au postage. 🙂 🙂
9 September 2017, 20:24
Max Little
Looks great Kerry! Unbelievable. I gotta get me some of those tubes of AK paint - Max (from QMHE)
9 September 2017, 23:38
Anthony Flanagan
What I loved was as I'm looking I ask myself, "how'd he do that?" Next frame pops up the answer! Dude, great build and loved the running dialogue!
10 September 2017, 02:24
Kerry COX
Anthony. Thank you for your kind words mate. I asked myself the same question when I saw the çut away on the box art and thought if I try hard enough, maybe............just maybe......and here I am, almost finished except for the external dressing. 🙂
10 September 2017, 09:42
Kerry COX
Max. 🙂 Great to see your one of the many happy members here mate. I thought you would like the atmosphere here. It certainly is a place to have fun. 🙂 👍
10 September 2017, 09:43
Rui S
Incredible courageous job and result Kezza.
Well done Mate 👍
10 September 2017, 12:50
Kerry COX
Hey Rui. 🙂 👍
Thanks mate. 🙂 That is really wonderful that you say that. 🙂 🙂 🙂
I have had my heart in my throat a couple of times on this one. hahahaha
I have never done something like this before and I am really happy mate. 👍
10 September 2017, 13:01
Rui S
Yes, you must be, Mate. 👍
10 September 2017, 14:48
Kerry COX
A huge thank you to all my mates and their generous appraisal of my effort. 🙂
It seems I have done something all my mates like and for that, I am extremely grateful.👍.
What has surprised me though is just how quickly it has happened.🙂
I had originally planned to make this build last a LOT longer than this , but the ease of which all the parts went together had me sitting at my bench WAY past the normal time I would put in.
But even when I thought "enough", I have managed to do a bit more in the way of making more cuts and use some of the discarded parts to include, hopefully all without looking overdone. :-/
I will post some images of these inclusions and proposed changes and ask you all for your opinion. 👍
10 September 2017, 21:21
Thomas Mayer
Unbeliveable... Kerry is almost done with this build! You are speeding through this one!
11 September 2017, 16:54
TheMadModeller
Wow this is truly a remarkable build!!! I've seen cut-away ship models, the transparent P-51 but this makes those look like child's play! Amazing work, you tankers never cease to amaze me. Great work, I hope you are enjoying this build as much as we enjoy seeing it!
11 September 2017, 17:33
Kerry COX
Gents. 🙂
Your amazing comments are truly humbling, believe me.
I have agonised over some of the cuts I have made here, thinking that it was just too much and I wouldn't be surprised if I got nothing but a couple of slaps around the ears for my effort.🙁
Thomas, It may seem like I have been on speed pills mate, but as I said, many more hours input that I had not planned on, and the fascination of all the amazing detail that just begged attention.🙂
Mr May.! :-O Your comments have just blown me away. !
A 'tanker' ?..............hardly. hehehehe
I mostly tinkered with aircraft and bikes, and the armour.............once in a while. 🙂
But I am sure that if you had this kit in your den, there would be many hours pass without noticing where they went, and this kit had me hooked from the very first seconds of peeking inside to see what I had. hahahahaha.
I have just bought some IKEA display cases, and this will be on one of the shelves for sure.🙂
Thanks again all my Scale Mates, you make what I do so worthwhile. 🙂
Cheers. 👍
11 September 2017, 22:06
Markus Kutsch The Plastic Bench
Wow.....what a Monster.
12 September 2017, 04:33
Kerry COX
Hey Markus. You ain't half wrong there mate. 🙂
A true beast for sure, and I highly recommend this one to any and all those who love German heavy machinery. 👍
The ONLY thing missing is the 'transit bar that pivots down from the inside roof of the turret to hook the back of the gun for heavy duty terrain travel, but as for the rest, not a thing I could ask for. hehehehe🙂 👍 Youtube Video
 
12 September 2017, 05:32
Holger Kranich
What i see here is most impressing, mate! I was on vacation and had no internet access. So i missed this beauty. The ammo looks very realistic, as the rest of your work. But i have to admit that my heart bleeded as i saw the you sawing the body in parts. LOL 😄
12 September 2017, 07:42
Kerry COX
Holger. MATE.!! That is why I always buy two models. the second of which I was really surprised to find I was minus a spru of parts. !!!hahahaha
I contacted them and I am getting a replacement part for $2.00Au and postage. Pretty good really. 🙂

I hope you have recovered your mojo now you have had a break.?🙂
Where did you go for the break.?
The sawing of the body I had to do was very carefully worked out so that I didn't impact on any major fixtures inside, and as it progressed, I found I could add a few more cuts and make it more 'visible, but maintain it's integrity.
I am close to the end now, as all I have left is the cammo. No weathering or chipping, just a pristine view of what comes off the production lines.
Just a couple of days. 👍
12 September 2017, 08:21
Holger Kranich
Yes, a bit of mojo has been recovered. Actually a Type VIIC is ready for some paint. But i was lazy and still have to make some pix.😉

I´m eager to see the result of your "sawed" Ki-Ti! 😄
12 September 2017, 09:37
Kerry COX
I have ventured into making it as compleat as I possibly can Holger.
I will post the next lot of images you may or may not think appropriate, but here they are. 🙂
12 September 2017, 09:58
Holger Kranich
Provide the piccies, Kezza! go go go!🙂
12 September 2017, 10:13
Jens
so much work so fast and so awesome, WOW, simple Genial 👍 👍 👍
12 September 2017, 10:20
Kerry COX
Just a bit of lip stick now. 🙂
12 September 2017, 10:49
Brad Furminger
I really want one of these kits now. I don't think I could bring myself to do the cutaway, but damn it looks fun to build.
12 September 2017, 11:43
Kerry COX
Brad, For the price, $80.00Au, it is worth EVERY penny. Like any kit, the instructions have a great deal with how it will finish up. And my only 'gripe' is that these instructions are hard to see very fine detail, and is better in the hands of a modeller who is patient and dry fit's everything before gluing.👍
12 September 2017, 12:45
Vitek Vrog
Pritty cool work!
13 September 2017, 04:30
Kerry COX
Vitek. Most appreciated comment mate. 🙂 👍 Cheers.
13 September 2017, 04:39
Vitek Vrog
And thanks you for GREAT and revolutionary idea with a sticker with a letter on spures!
13 September 2017, 05:41
Michael Kraft
You've read a lot of nice comments already, but I still have to add one. Great and inspiring work! I feel encouraged to also build a cutaway version of that kit. It seems the best way to go. Thanks for sharing all those details!
13 September 2017, 07:28
Johne 69
Well done Kerry 👍 !
13 September 2017, 08:19
Kerry COX
Vitek, Michael K and Johne, Many thanks for what you have all said, I am stoked. 🙂 🙂 🙂.
I have the President of Zoukei-Mura to thank for the tags on the sprus idea, as I saw his build of the Ho-229 and there he was, surrounded with spru's, all with the alphabet tags hanging on them, and I have done it ever since, so all credit to him.🙂
Michael, the image at the start of my build of the 'cut away' is what TAKOM have on the box as part of the box art of the model inside, and it was that image that got my attention, and I searched the net for "Tank cutaway's" and there are others who have done this model in a similar fashion.
Cheers to you all. 👍 🙂
13 September 2017, 08:43
Brad Furminger
Great finish, Kerry.
14 September 2017, 01:14
Bart Goesaert
Nicely done that camo
14 September 2017, 04:14
Kerry COX
A direct copy from the paint chart Bart. 🙂
I have now got the decals, (the ONLY) decals on and a Spandau MG. I am SO glad it's over. I will wait a long long time before I tackle an other 'cut away'. hahahahaha 🙂
14 September 2017, 05:20
Dan M
It looks great! And the cut out, well, I can't imagine myself sawing away parts of the kit and making it look so clean in the end so hats off to you Kerry!
14 September 2017, 06:17
Kerry COX
Dan. Thank you my friend. What you have said is very kind and I am most grateful.🙂
But, I had a BALL. hahahaha 👍 🙂
14 September 2017, 06:56
Holger Kranich
Where to hell is there a Spandau MG?😄
14 September 2017, 07:19
David Thor
Looking very good and such a tempo!
14 September 2017, 07:57
Soeren R.
Looks really nice! 🙂
14 September 2017, 09:22
TheMadModeller
Misadventure, Eric? This was a bonifide odyssey in modeling, a work of art even! lol I always obsess over the interior parts of my warbirds but I'd never have thought to do a cutaway like this. For me it means picking up vac canopies, smash forming my own canopies, regular cleanings and replacing Krystal Klear windows periodically so it can be enjoyed when well lit. 🙂
14 September 2017, 09:33
Thomas Mayer
Holger, there are no Spandau guns on a WWII Tiger. Might be a user error on Kezza´s site, hehe... 🙂
14 September 2017, 10:20
Kerry COX
I will not respond to the negatives here, but I am happy to know that my effort has given some members a bit of pleasure.🙂
Edward, I am overwhelmed by your comments and I am most grateful that you have said what you did in my defence. 👍
Holger, I was looking at some Mg41's and they were produced by Spandau I believe or am I wrong. ? HELP. !!! 🙂
Thank you one and all. 🙂
14 September 2017, 10:21
Thomas Mayer
Whoever made it: this is a remarkable build!
14 September 2017, 10:23
Kerry COX
Mr Mayer, my good friend. Those are very kind words my friend. Thank you. 🙂
14 September 2017, 10:27
Kerry COX
The last image is for Holger. 🙂 He asked where the Spandau is and I can now show him. 🙂 👍.
An Mg34 I do believe. 🙂
14 September 2017, 10:29
Bart Goesaert
You can also find 1 or two coaxial with the main gun

are those some seam lines on that mount 😉 tss...

No slight exterior wash to accent the details?
14 September 2017, 11:11
Bryn Crandell
Absolutely an amazing build. L😮ve how the cut away areas came out. Your hard work paid off. Bravo!
14 September 2017, 11:20
Kerry COX
Seam lines. !!!!! Arrrrrrrgggg 🙁. E gads, your right Bart. I do believe I am guilty of a stuff up. hahahahaha 🙂 👍
Bryn, There was a lot of apprehension during this build, as I was not ever really sure of just what I had undertaken, but as we do, just keep plugging away. hehehe 🙂
BART. I will now correct that seam line on the MG cradle and post an image of it , just for YOU!!!. hehehehe 🙂 👍 And as for the exterior wash, that is something I will most definitely work on mate. 👍
Cheers lads. 🙂
14 September 2017, 11:41
TheMadModeller
Kerry, old chap, you needn't build for the lot of us - build until you're chuffed with the results. We are all just ninnies sitting here punching away at keys rather than building!😉 (You likely never would have seen those seam lines without the high resolution photos anyway, mate!)
14 September 2017, 11:53
Kerry COX
Edward, All is glee mate. I was aware of them and I am not surprised that they were seen. 🙂 SO, the correction is done and a wash is imminent. 🙂 In fact, I have posted some images of the correction/clean up. hehehe
14 September 2017, 12:32
Rui S
Oh Yeah, the high resolution photos sometimes can be a pain in the ass...
But one thing that always pissed me of, is seam lines. I spend hours cleaning ALL the pieces even the ones you'll never see, and even so... BUM close-up photos and there they are, like in my Schwimmwagen MG.
The Neglected Kit Resurrection Groupbuild | Album by mig (1:35)
photo 42 😎
14 September 2017, 14:24
Erik Leijdens
Amazing work Kerry!! At first glance I presumed it was a cut away kit! Respect for your work mate 👍
14 September 2017, 16:18
Kerry COX
Erik. That is something I should have stated at the outset of the build, but the image on the box was truly inspirational and to say the least, challenging. But after researching images on Google, it has spawned a plethora of like minded modellers to do the same. I am but one of many. hehehehe 🙂 👍
14 September 2017, 17:31
Rui S
I don't know if a factory done camo paint, would include all tools, the tow cables, hull machine gun and exhaust pipes???
But that's just a thought... 🤔😉 😄
14 September 2017, 19:49
Kerry COX
Picky picky pic. 🙁 hahahaha Only kidding Rui. 🙂 I am not really worried about the lipstick mate. I would have been asked where they were if I had not attached them. 🙂 This is what I would imagine is something that would be on the king pins office desk, free of any 'combat' foliage if you get my drift. 🙂 👍
Cheers.
14 September 2017, 19:53
Kerry COX
James, A 'gentle' wash has been applied, mostly to bring out some of the weld and bolt heads and such. And I am more than happy with the 'finished' tag it wears now. 👍
I am deeply appreciative of ALL comments and questions, as I never thought it would attract this much attention, but I do hope I have some of you out there thinking about wether to take the plunge now and then. 👍
Cheers good mates and thanks. 👍 👍 👍
14 September 2017, 19:58
Rui S
No Plunges for me (no big "nuts", if you get my drift), just some nice lipstick. hehehe.
I'm being picky and also kidding Kezza. 🤔 But I understand what you mean. Showing the guts is what was important in this one 👍
14 September 2017, 21:25
Kerry COX
Rui. Your a prince and I do know exactly what you mean, and all with good intent. 🙂 🙂 👍.
Cheers mate. 👍
14 September 2017, 21:29
Anthony Flanagan
Thanks Kerry! Now I have to go to the doctor as I am breaking out in green all over. 😉
Gee whiz what a nice job you've done.
15 September 2017, 00:22
Kerry COX
LOL. 🙂 Anthony, that is just so cool. 🙂
One of the seven deadly sins eh.? Mmmmmmm, I do hope it's not contagious mate. hehehehehe👍.
I have had a great deal of fun with it for sure, then to have my mates say I did ok is the clincher. 🙂
Cheers my friend. 👍.
15 September 2017, 02:29
TheMadModeller
Kerry, just a thought on this bit but if you live near where they hold modelers' conventions this could very well win you a prize, mate! Might be nice to have set on a base beside this herculean bit of work?
15 September 2017, 02:51
Kerry COX
Edward. Here in Australia, there are few and far between scale model conventions or expo's, and when it does happen, it will usually involve a trip in the 1000's of miles. But I do thank you for your suggestion and belief in what I have built. For sure. Most humbling. 🙂 👍
15 September 2017, 02:57
TheMadModeller
It was worth a mention at the very least as I did not know if you lived in one of the land down-under's larger metro areas. I've never been to a modeling expo but have known several mates who aimed for prizes with their builds. One mate I long since lost contact with had an entire wall of his workshop full up with trophies, medals and ribbons. IF I ever wished to visit such a venue it would be a 4 hour trip each way to a big metro area that is known for it's off-limits parts called "Little Mogadishu." lol Thanks but I'll stick to my quiet solitary modeling life! 😄
15 September 2017, 03:11
Kerry COX
I recently competed in the QMHE last August and won a gold for my ICM Mercedes G4 German staff car. A win that was a LONG time coming, but worth it, as I now have a couple I can gloat over. hehehehe 🙂
15 September 2017, 03:18
Murad ÖZER
holy cross section batman, incredible work Kerry big huge 👍 for the build!
15 September 2017, 04:11
Bart Goesaert
Sorry for pointing them seamlines out, but the devil is in the details... Especially in such a beautiful build. I'm also like Rui... I tend to clean up the last detail before gluing and I believe you're a bit allergic to these too.
15 September 2017, 04:27
Kerry COX
Bart. I was elated that you looked so intently at the build mate. As how else does one improve unless he/she is told, "Oi !, you missed something." ?🙂
The scrutiny here is tactful, sometimes humorous, and then.................well, you know. hahahaha🙂
Allergic is an understatement Bart. 🙁

I have lost awards because of seam lines, and from then on, they have become a poison to me, and I tell that to all who look at any of my posted builds, and warn that judges hate them with a passion too. Yes. Bad news. 🙂
Murad. LOL. Thanks for the Batman expletive mate. He is also a hero to me, especially the original Zap, Bam Pow series. 🙂🙂 🙂
I am grateful to all who have had a look and left their kind words.
I am most proud that you like what I do.
Cheers. Kez. 🙂
15 September 2017, 05:57
Gareth Windsor
Oh my goodness, you just keep upping the bar. Wonderful work.
21 September 2017, 15:15
Patrick Hagelstein
Well, after Bart's comment I hate to be the bearer of more bad news... But just to let you reach that building pinacle! 🙂 On the right side of the turret there's that plain Zimmerit-less square, isn't that just a one off where there should be the charging knight painting? Aren't all the other Königstiger covered with Zimmerit in that area?
21 September 2017, 15:42
Kerry COX
Patrick. Your observations are spot on. I was hoping that in the kit was a square that was to fit into that area on the turret, but no.🙁
I will ask my guru and friend Rui S for some more information on that area, as it may have some significance that he will have some knowledge about.
Gareth. Your just too kind with your words. Thank you my friend. 🙂 👍
21 September 2017, 21:15
Spanjaard
what a beautiful master piece you have done. it is simply fantastic. and also, i doubt i would had had the guts to cut it the way you did... simply fantastic result.
how is that that the square area is not covered with zimmerit?
21 September 2017, 21:38
Dan M
That square area looks like the cut-out in zimmerit that the crews of Abteilung 505 used to do in order to paint their teutonic knight emblem. As seen here: [img1]
 


But I thought this is the generic Henschel kit from Takom not the Abteilung 505 one. If it's the generic Henschel then I'm afraid they put the wrong turret piece.
21 September 2017, 21:47
Kerry COX
This is getting worse and worse. 🙁
All I did was build what I was given, trusting that all was OK. 🙁
21 September 2017, 23:05
Rui S
I kezza,
I think Patrick & Dan are right.
They left that part without the zimmerit, to paint there unit symbol, schwere Panzer-Abteilung 505.
You can see some colour plates in my MT3... 😎 Military Thinking MT3 | Album by mig
You can read in the first image text:
-"The bull badge
is carried until the
beginning of 1944.

The emblem
knight charging
is present on the
Tiger I and II from
of the summer of 1944 on
turret, on a space
rectangular cleaned
of his Zimmerit.

Note that the color
of the knight is not
necessarily that of the
company"

P.S. Please I'm not a Guru Mate, just interested in German WWII stuff. 👍
21 September 2017, 23:07
Patrick Hagelstein
Sorry Kerry... 🙁
22 September 2017, 01:52
Patrick Hagelstein
I'm really astounded by your daring and skillful work but just noticed the square...
22 September 2017, 01:53
TheMadModeller
Kerry, under Scribing there is something called a Zimmerit Coating Applicator Die; Perhaps that would work to fill that spot? To me this whole thing falls sorta under the category of "rivet counting," but each to his or her own.😉
22 September 2017, 02:02
Kerry COX
A dam good idea Edward. Rivet counting is necessary, otherwise, we would get lazy and not care.👍
I am wrapped that all my mates are concerned enough to mention it. Much appreciated. 🙂
22 September 2017, 02:16
Kerry COX
It wouldn't hurt to get the decals off I have there, and just place the Knight on horseback right where it belongs. 🙂 hehehehe 👍
22 September 2017, 02:17
TheMadModeller
I'm more of a "If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck and walks like a duck; It's probably a duck," kinda guy. Granted I aim for as good of accuracy as I can achieve with what I have to work with and am not opposed to a fair amount of surgery on a kit or the use of aftermarket parts to get it to that level. I just happened to remember those die sets from when I was organizing tools and adding photos for the products there. I remember making a mental note as I have an interest in building small scale armor along side of my son and considering how I'd reproduce that in a smaller scale.😉
22 September 2017, 02:58
Rui S
Hehehe nice expression Edward.
@ Kezza, if you chose to fill the gap, Trumpeter also as several special tool kits for modulating putty:
scalemates.com/kits/218711-t..9916-tools-for-zimmerit-coat
Of course your able hands can do it also with some screwdrivers.
If you chose to put the knight decal, don't forget that the SwPzBat 505, also had a different placing for the unit numbers, as you can see in the MT3 mig colour plates. And I'm not being picky, picky, pic. 😎 😉
I Agree with what you've said about "Rivet counting", but IMHO with some amount of common sense because unfortunately no one can reach perfection, more over in small scale modelling.
22 September 2017, 10:16
TheMadModeller
Rui, thanks, it's one of many variations on an old proverb. As to what you added afterwards, I can agree with that statement. (Hence why I said it "sorta" fit into that category.) Absolute perfection is quite literally impossible - but we can do our best to get as close to it as humanly possible.

Take for example my forte - model aircraft in 1:72. Should ANYONE win a prize for a 1:72 build if they use an injection kit canopy with the canopy open? Not really, if you think about it, those canopies are way too thick to be anywhere close to scale. An F-16's canopy is 0.625 inches thick, including it's polycarbonate, polyurethane & acrylic layers.

In my scale that would be 0.0086805555555556 inches (0.22049mm) thick if it were done faithfully to scale. True, the external frame gives a bit more thickness, I couldn't find data on that but without the step between the two, shouldn't that mean that it disqualifies as scale accurate?

My rant aside, while true, I do smash form a lot of canopies it isn't for scale accuracy it is for clarity to see the scratchbuilding or aftermarket stuff I've stuffed inside the office.😉
22 September 2017, 11:08
Spanjaard
Kerry, not sure if the flat area is present in both sides of the turret. If it is only in one, you can make a resin copy of the other (you have a second koning tiger) and stick it in the right place. With a minimum of putty it would be perfect
If the flat area is present in both sides, you can make the resin copy of the adjacent area and adjust it. Even if the area used is flat, and the area to replace is not, silicon mould could be twisted to get the right curvature. Or the resin can be adapted when not completely cured
In any case, you can try that without any harm done to the finished model, until you have a fully finished part created.
Now that I think about it, do you have the area that you removed from the turret? If you thin the plastic, you may have what you need already.....
22 September 2017, 12:11
Rui S
@ Edward, I do agree.
I think we all try our best, but showing it here only makes the stakes higher for me and sometimes that search or efforts to make the best becomes intimidating and a bit counter-productive because experience, try and error, and take some risks (that can also ruin all the efforts), is also very important.
22 September 2017, 13:16
Kerry COX
Hi Rui, Well, I do have an other one to build yet, but I am waiting for a replacement tree of the gun and its parts to arrive from TAKOM, (missing from box, never packed). And I will be building that as it comes from the box. So, as it is on both sides of the turret, I will look at making them both used accordingly.
22 September 2017, 21:24
Kerry COX
I have mentioned it before that I have the habit of buying two of every model I get, starting out as a habit when I was a young modeller and stuffing up the build and using the second for either repairs or a whole new build. Either way, I now have a huge collection of unbuilt kits, as my skills have improved somewhat. hehehehe 🙂
22 September 2017, 21:31
TheMadModeller
lol I'm right there with you Kerry, though not for the same reasons. I would grab any kit I could find of a particular aircraft in my younger years with less consideration for age of the kit/accuracy/etc. and more of a focus on budgetary demands. Thankfully this has worked out well. My son, a new-ish modeler is more than happy to take on the old FROG, Novo, Airfix, Kopro and so on kits that I may cast off in favor of a newer model with more accuracy and detail. I'm hesitant to hand over my BIG 1:72 kits like my B-36 and B-52 without compensation because their smaller scale replacements are still going to cost me a pretty penny but I'll probably do it anyway. The boy is lucky I love him! lol
22 September 2017, 21:46
Rui S
@ Edward, I think you are the lucky one.
I've tried (with my 2 sons) to make them modellers and none of them catch the bug...
They have done one single kit each other, (one is the Opel blitz that I've painted and is still a WISlowP), but just because my insistence (the younger did'nt even finished the kit) 🙁
I would love to share my kits and hobby with them but they prefer the new technologies, if you get my drift.
22 September 2017, 21:52
TheMadModeller
Yes, I certainly get your' drift! My son typically takes up his time with school, playing games (which ironically are games where you build things,) being outdoors, having Nerf gun fights with his sister/neighborhood kids and when either his mother or I dig out the modeling supplies he drops what he is doing to join us with his own project.

He even managed to get me hooked on one of his games, one called "Simple Planes," which can be quite simple or anything BUT simple. I went through a long binge on there where I'd go back and forth between creating originals based on real world aircraft with my own unique twist or doing genuine replicas.

Just when I was getting really skilled though I wound up with a serious system error on my main PC and need to get it to the shop. Ironically it was a file sharing issue between Firefox/Windows while I was updating this site that caused the error. I just hope that the whole thing doesn't have to be wiped clean. I had a HUGE database of detail images, drawings, specifications and so on that were essential to my super detailing efforts. Even if I had backed it all up on CD-ROM the CD-ROM drive on this backup laptop burned out years ago.
22 September 2017, 22:08
Kerry COX
How great it is to see all you dad's sharing the pain of not getting our kinder as involved in our hobby as we are. 🙂 🙂 🙂
My son is a submariner, studying at every opportunity to get some other 'skills' for the day he hits 'civvy street' and 'has no time' to be distracted from his goals. Something in him I admire greatly, not ever having the drive and ambition he posses, (his mum's traits thank God. !!), but he has a very keen interest in what I do and why I do it. hehehe 🙂
Edward, something I learned the hard way was to get myself an external hard drive and keep all your most treasured data there, as I saw, on many an occasion, the HD go zap and all my recorded history with it. 🙁
I have now just this week upgraded to a HP Pavilion with window's 10 on board, and then, my external attached and all I have now is every image from all my research and past works in portfolios ready to be uploaded to "My Albums" again.👍
I sometimes have my doubts about 'digital', as I was a slide film freak all the time I had a normal SLR camera, having the ability to hard copy all I needed as people wanted, but the digital is subject to such silly things like 'magnetic pulse' to just wipe all you own. Mmmmmmmm 🙁
And you have to wait until, "It's ready' to be used and focus. Gah.!!!
I like 'old fashioned'. 👍

23 September 2017, 00:17
TheMadModeller
Kerry, I think my son will soon drift further away from video games and more towards this hobby to be perfectly honest. He's so proud of his work once he's finished it and takes great pride in showing them to neighborhood friends. I DO have to help him a little here and there though as he is red/green color blind. I'm saving up to invest in a pair of the new glasses they have available that allow colorblind people to see colors properly. Its bad when he looks at a box top of an Me-262 with a brown/violet shade and dark green shade on top over a pale blue. (Being lazy about looking up the color names,) and to him it looked green over white.

I would be very proud of my son if he had decided on taking the path to the military, though I've mixed feelings on my nation as a whole and their excessive/questionable use of the military. He has a sleep disorder, anxiety issues and his colorblindness though which likely would have prevented him from serving.

When I was just a bit younger than him I was prepared to take great strides and efforts to get into the USAF or USN as a fixed-wing aircraft pilot. I had the intellect, excellent math skills, demonstrate initiative, leadership qualities, respect discipline, (had) good health, 20/10 vision and a lifelong love for military aviation - the perfect blend for a prospective pilot. My parents would have none of that talk though. Both were military brats with my mother remembering the stress of her father being in-country in Vietnam and my father being a proud and admitted draft-dodger; I was threatened with being disowned if I began following that path. Looking back now with my current mindset being considerably older and perhaps wiser if I had the chance I probably would have called the bluff, since family is the single most essential value my family held for many generations back on my mother's side at least. On the other hand, I did the math on how long it would have taken me to reach operational service and it would have been just in time for the Iraq War; A chilling thought.

You've got a very good point and another friend recommended an external hard drive to me as well for such measures not long before I encountered that "Breakpoint Error." However I don't get along with any electronics very well - or should I say they don't get along with me? Private message soon to follow to explain...
23 September 2017, 01:29
Spanjaard
i would suggest better two external hard drives and two copies... those thins cost peanuts nowadays, and peace of mind is priceless 🙂
23 September 2017, 08:00
Kerry COX
1 terrabite is more than enough memory for this old fart. 🙂
23 September 2017, 08:11
Spanjaard
that is exactly the size of my external ones😉
23 September 2017, 08:59
Kerry COX
Yes mate. More than that now is just overkill. Easy to loose track of what is where. 🙁
23 September 2017, 09:16
TheMadModeller
At my height, on the tower before that error on my laptop, I had six point odd gigs of images, profiles, three view drawings, technical drawings and walkarounds I'd scoured from the internet. Indeed a terabyte would be overkill unless I started downloading video clips, documentaries and such!
23 September 2017, 09:24
Rui S
In my laptop hard disk I've 2 partitions: 1 C: for the operating system and 1 D: for the files I save. If the system crash I can format it without losing what I've in the D:

Plus I,ve 500 Gigas in one small external dive where I save almost every thing.

Plus I've another 1 Tera external disk with electric transformer for the backup of the backup. hehehe

I'm just terrified to lose memory's or biblio research files.

AS Spanjaard says those thins cost peanuts nowadays and can save you from a BIG lose and irreparable disappointment.

If all that would be lost (and I hit the wood now) I still Have my SCALEMATES albums and info 👍
23 September 2017, 10:34
TheMadModeller
If I started assembling albums of "borrowed" images from around the web, I'd be banned so fast it'd make my head spin! lol I have a history with electronic devices malfunctioning around me. This conversation though did inspire me to start a new project that will assure that I do not lose my files - barring some form of natural disaster. -knock on wood- I'm going to start assembling albums in 3 ring binders by E-mailing prepared materials to myself, going to the local library and printing out photos, profiles, three view drawings, walkaround images & text data. It's $0.10 to print a page of text or black and white images & $0.25 to print a color image there. Thus I'll have to make sure the font is small on my text documents, come up with a standard size for my three view drawings to fit on one page and adjust them accordingly, compile color profiles on single page images at a fixed size so that that 3 or so will fit on one colored sheet & adjust walkaround photos for appropriate print size. 🙂 I already have four bookshelves - I had five but one collapsed earlier this year under the weight of part of my hard copy reference materials! I wish that were a joke, but it's not! lol I will be replacing it next month.
23 September 2017, 10:54
Spanjaard
my most precious stuff is copied in 5 different drives (call me paranoid)..... but not yet in the cloud etc.... for some reason, i do not trust google and the others.... 😛 (call me paranoid again!)
so my greatest fear is that my house burns down, with all my pictures and data, my models and my stash inside.......
23 September 2017, 10:57
Rui S
I rest my case hehehe
23 September 2017, 11:21
TheMadModeller
Spanjaard, my friend, we could all stand to be a bit paranoid in this world. This site is the only social media I use, I retired Facebook on Nov. 30th of last year. Besides my issues with electronics I keep my phone calls brief and without disclosing any sort of sensitive information, I do not use a cellular phone, I do not own a smart television, everything in the house that has a microphone jack in it has a cheap dollar store microphone cord, with the microphone cut loose, plugged into the jack. This backup laptop's webcam stopped working spontaneously but it still has tape over it. I prefer face to face communication or correspondence through the mail and even then I prefer to use "decorative" foil lined envelopes. I have nothing to hide but I prefer to disclose my thoughts, actions and information to its intended recipient - not someone who has no business delving into my life. For the record; I also do not use Google Search and avoid the Google Chrome Browser like the plague. I use Mozilla Firefox, I have everything set to private browsing, it doesn't save my history, it doesn't save my usernames/passwords and I use a search engine called duckduckgo.com which advertises the fact that it doesn't track anything. Am I paranoid? Definitely. lol

As for the fear of a house fire, I believe that is something everyone fears. My mother in law has had three major house fires in the span of the past two decades, each as the result of faulty wiring. I've had a few close calls with light bulbs exploding and electronic devices deciding to begin smoldering/burning for no apparent reason. Two cordless phones, one which literally burst into flames IN my hand, a monitor that came with an older model Compaq Pressario that began to belch white smoke out of its back upper side and a water heater that was still under warranty. (That last one was especially dangerous, we were up later than usual and detected the odor early. The lower heating coil had shorted out and was beginning to burn the Styrofoam insulation within the confines of the sheet metal cylinder. All three bedrooms were upstairs in that home and we most assuredly would have perished from the toxic fumes if friends had not stayed late into the night to chat.)

I do indeed love my stash, my reference materials, my data and my built models but my greatest fear is not their loss it is the loss of a family member, companion animal and of course our place of residence. After those three, in that order, falls everything else. I can replace models, never to the number or to the variety I now possess most likely, but it would be nigh impossible to get past those three factors.
23 September 2017, 11:49
Kerry COX
We have all seen how the digital age has changed so rapidly. First the "Walkman", then discman, an all the tapes to disk and all in differing formats that are not 'recognised' by the next generation. Just look at windows. now it's up to 10, but with a touch screen capability built in. That is why I still buy slide film and process it myself.
23 September 2017, 12:19
TheMadModeller
Slide film was a bit before my time or at least was not something I was exposed to growing up. Before the "Walkman" though was the "Boombox," you know, the huge thing you carried around like a briefcase with a half stone of batteries loaded into the thing? I remember that at least!😉 We aren't even done though on the development of technology for data storage. They now have a so-called Five-Dimensional Glass Disc they've developed that is so durable that it could potentially survive for up to 13.8 billion years and reliably store 380 Terabytes of data. Unlike our current CD, DVD, Blu-Ray, CD-ROM tech-level discs which are coated in plastic that scratches easily and does gradually degrade - these new discs are made of high density silica and quartz which makes them extremely resistant to damage and is not susceptible to the effects of microwave or EMP damage because the data is literally laser etched into the quartz; Or so I've read. We've come a long way from floppy discs haven't we? Imagine where we'll be, if we survive, in another 50 years!😉
23 September 2017, 12:37
Spanjaard
I still have a few things even older than that a walkman... I keep a 10 inch floppy (yes 10, not a typo 😄) or even a punch card from long gone data processing centre. god, at my parent's I still have the 8 mm silent films my father took when i was a child or even before i was born....
family and house goes of course before models... that goes without saying.
i am happy i am not the only one with duckduckgo and firefox out there 🙂... but i must say i use a mobile phone, although i disabled GPS and many other stuff 😛. i would suggest to use Linux rather than windows. i think the last windows computer i had was XP 😄
work laptop has windows unfortunately, but that is what the company gives me.... but i can boot it with linux whenever i want and use it for my own stuff anyway 😄
thank god fires seem to be a lot less common here. sorry to hear all the close calls you had Edward.
23 September 2017, 13:34
Spanjaard
about pictures, I decided to change to digital the day that I returned home from an airshow, with 6 rolls of 36 pictures.... traditional pictures were getting too expensive for me! LOL. But I must say i was more selective with at that time i take too many now. but on the other side, with film camera, I would have not shot even a small fraction of the pictures i got today of the subjects i want to build. I remember Verlinden walkaround books, those were nice. But today, I prefer to get around the subject i want, and take the pictures myself. of course, some like for example an Tomcat are not so easy to find around here 😄
23 September 2017, 13:40
Patrick Hagelstein
Yes they are!!! Depends on where 'around here' is. Give me a hint and I will find you some pictures from one of the museums around here.
23 September 2017, 14:33
Rui S
I've also lots of 8mm film's (no sound) and also super 8. Really nice like mute cinema black and white and in colours projection.
I also leave 36 photo films as soon as digital appeared. To expensive to reveal the negatives and lot's of them where to trash.
I've lots of family photos in physical albums, but digital (like you say) permits to take exponential more photos and in that some will be much nicer and cheap, and the speed you have until you can see the results..., instantly 🙂
23 September 2017, 14:37
TheMadModeller
Spanjaard, I tried to send you a lengthy PM in response but Scalemates is being wonky. I don't know how much of it you received. lol No F-14s around here, sadly, but we've got one of everything the 119th Fighter Wing except for the Learjet and Predator. (And only one variety of F-89.) The air museum also has a fair selection though their star, the F2G Super Corsair, has since been destroyed.
23 September 2017, 15:32
Spanjaard
yes Edward the post got "interrupted" and i can see only part of it, maybe half. there is a message that there are 576 characters , but when i click to see them... nothing happens. what pity 🙁
I have seen some nice museums around Europe, and for example enjoyed greatly the F-4J in Duxford. but i have never seen an F-14 face to face.... is there any to be seen at this side of the Atlantic?
sorry Kerry for hijacking your post!

23 September 2017, 19:15
Kerry COX
I still have heaps of "LP;s". Long Play for those unfamiliar with the 'vinyl' world of music. So popular that they are being made again, and don't be surprised if film' cameras make a comeback. 👍
23 September 2017, 19:33
TheMadModeller
Kerry, yes, I've heard vinyl is making a comeback. I actually prefer the sound from records - it has something to it that just can't be matched through digital means somehow. I still have a functioning CD/Cassette/Record Player though it was only purchased a few years ago and is stylized to look like a miniature console player.

Spanjaard, I bet you have. Before the world went insane it was one of my greatest dreams to go on a grand tour of museums throughout Europe, especially the aviation/military museums or any military museum ships, plus a few castles, rusty old suits of armor, swords and the like for good measure. 😉 Unfortunately you'd have to cross the pond or sneak into Iran to see a Tomcat face to face. Our government was so paranoid about F-14 parts falling onto the black market and into Iranian hands they shredded the majority of the F-14s and stripped down MOST of the others of anything of even semi-sensitive nature. They're spread out from coast to coast with one on display in Hawaii. It shocked me a bit to learn that there is one only three hours from my present location, someone took some nice close up photos of her here; midwaysailor.com/pho..cat-mnangmuseum.html
23 September 2017, 20:33
TheMadModeller
Haha! That Tomcat caught itself a bird! Check out the first two pics in the 9th row of photos down! 😄
23 September 2017, 20:39
Spanjaard
thanks for those pictures. funny that the bird made the nest there 😄
23 September 2017, 20:44
Kerry COX
I have a pile of LP's numbering the 100's. 🙂 From early Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis, right through to Pink Floyd, Roxy Music and a guy called Jim Post. All have been burned to disk, thinking that they were eventually going to go the way of the cave man, but I am so glad I kept them, as I now have a new 'turntable' and amp system that gives me chills when I play them. "Click, Pop, zzzzzit, Oh, the JOY. LOL 🙂
23 September 2017, 21:54

Album info

This kit is the henschel turret version of the King Tiger and it also sports a fully detailed interior, from the torsion bar mounts right through to the turret interior and gun system and driving compartment, as well as the engine.
But I plan to make it a "cut away" just to be different.

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