Hatch and Tool removal/Humbrol Paint Tins

[Saxondog]

I have been waiting on a new gun system from Creeping Death.I intended to modify my upper hull at the same time I install the new gun.Well I decided to install metal hatches and grind of the molded tools for replacement by individual tools and latches.Everything was going wrong with the first hatch,tried using thread to cut it out and cut to wide.Then I pulled out the dremel set and went to work.The drivers opening was a little wide but the other opening came out fine.Next I'm wondering how to add the lip on the edge of the hatch opening? I went to the local shop looking for something to use,nothing worked out.So as I'm about to select some primer I notice the Humbrol paint display.The tins are a perfect fit,the outer rim fits the need for a lip.The inner rim fits the hatch lip perfect.I will have to cut the the tins so they do not hit the gearboxes,and cut a hole for the hinge but the fit is great.Well now I'm lookin at the lids from the paint tins and remember the top of the Maybach Engine has the two round sections on the intake,top of the motor.I think these lids will serve that purpose.Here's a few pictures.Cheers Blake

[[ICE]monkey]

good find blake, i havent seen this one before.

[mt 1]

very nice use of paint tins

[grompix]

Brilliant idea!

[Saxondog]

Thanks guy's.more pics after my new hatches arrive,but I think hinge assembly will mount with a small opening in the tin.I'm just happy to hide my bad hatch removal job.Cheers Blake

[Saxondog]

I received my new hatches from Bill,here is the way I worked out so the hinge on the hatches works and they also will rest on the lip and stay in the open position. cheers Blake

Hinge access opening

hinge access opening

Lip notched for hinge clearance

Drivers side flush fit

Radio/loader side flush fit

[Saxondog]

Here are the new pictures of the top deck and Humbrol paint tins being used as hatch rims. I think the paint work came out very well and the tins are a perfect fit. Blake

Metal hatches and Humbrol paint tins

Baking soda texture finish

[Saxondog]

I was able today to take a few more pics of the top hull,the finish after the baking powder technique,the finish after tool removal.And the hatches using the Humbrol paint tins as hatch rings and crew compartment. Feed back welcome this seems to work well on a Tiger. Blake

[panzerfahrer]

You could even leave them full of paint, ideal for touching up those knocks and bumps when out on the field. LOL
But seriously that is an excellent idea.

[Saxondog]

Thanks,it was just pure luck that it occurred to me while looking for something metal for the hatch lip.I have considered trying to flatten the lip but this works well enough and is just a very slight amount to high.

Thanks for the feedback,Saxondog