1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
Hi, new to the forum, tanks and rc modelling. Recently acquired an old mark-1-tank 1/8 jagdpanther in need of some cosmetic repair, paint job and detailing. "won't take long" I convinced myself. The more I researched the more I realised needed to be done. On closer inspection it became clear there were other issues other than cosmetic condition/lack of detail. Nearly all the suspension arms were seized solid in there bushes which would not respond to intensive wd40,pliers and heat treatment, they would have to be cut out. The barrel had been snapped and bodged up, which now blocked it up. This was a pain as Iwanted to line the open barrel so it could fire elecric initiated pyros. Probably in the same accident a large crack inthe mantlet had appeared. There were also some scale inaccuracies inherrent from manufacture, some could be changed, others I'd have to live with. I decided to get to work. It was going to have smoke capability, new flammvernichter exhausts, schurzen were coming off (which meant re-constructing the sides of the hull), muzzle loaded pyro firing capability and extensive detailing as far as my limited skill will allow. Enough to be getting on with. Work started a few months back and I've taken a few snaps along the way.
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Last edited by JP 233 on Sun Sep 29, 2013 2:37 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
Here's a few more photos. Work stopped on the hull for quite a while I tried to sort replacement bushes which were to be cut off the suspension arms. The inner arms which connect the suspension arm axle to the spring are all welded on. this meant stripping the whole thing right down to get the angle grinder in to grind of the welds. This was easier said than done. I decided a different method to welding when re-installing. I went for spring pins which work great and can be drifted out relatively easier if the bushes need freeing/replacing in the future. The problem was drilling the holes to accept these pins. Acheiving the correct alignment and tension on the springs in situ whilst drilling was a pain to say the least.
That was a joy in comparison to stripping the old paint. I couldn't use any nasty chemicals as this could eat into the grp underneath. Bead bleasting would be to violent and damage the grp. Sanding wasnt and option. I went for a water based paint stripper. It took a couple of applications to loosen the various very thick paint layers. What a messy time consuming job, scraping off all traces of paint, absolute nightmare. Still it had to be done, one day I may be able to look back and laugh. But for now, I try to forget.
That was a joy in comparison to stripping the old paint. I couldn't use any nasty chemicals as this could eat into the grp underneath. Bead bleasting would be to violent and damage the grp. Sanding wasnt and option. I went for a water based paint stripper. It took a couple of applications to loosen the various very thick paint layers. What a messy time consuming job, scraping off all traces of paint, absolute nightmare. Still it had to be done, one day I may be able to look back and laugh. But for now, I try to forget.
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Last edited by JP 233 on Mon Aug 19, 2013 5:32 pm, edited 1 time in total.
- [ICE]monkey
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Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
nice start , welcome to the big boys club
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Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
Ah well, that explains why the 1/8th Panther has been unavailable on the Mark-1-Tank site for ages.JP 233 wrote:At the same time it became apparent that what 1/8 scale was for model tanks, was the same as delorean was for sports cars. Discontinued, no spares, no off the shelf accessories . 1/6 is the future.
Actually it's a real shame to hear this as I've wanted to 'go large' for ages but for practical reasons (I'm disabled and lifting or carrying heavy/bulky things is difficult) 1/8th would be the limit. 1/6th models are just too big to be viable so guess I'll be sticking with 1/16th.
Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
They are a little more practical for man handling and will fit in your car easier but still very heavy. Yes Mark has stopped doing them. However there are still 1/8 alternatives still being made.
rc armoury (usa)
verio tanks (hong kong) http://www.tankmodel.com/1_8-2_1.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
kennys model tank (hong kong)
The two hong kong makers are all metal construction so heavier than a mark-1-tank. The rc armoury offerings are plastic I believe.
regards
JP
rc armoury (usa)
verio tanks (hong kong) http://www.tankmodel.com/1_8-2_1.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
kennys model tank (hong kong)
The two hong kong makers are all metal construction so heavier than a mark-1-tank. The rc armoury offerings are plastic I believe.
regards
JP
Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
Steel Dragons may be another option for some,several kits under 800.00us that may be detailed into really fine tanks. Can't really comment on their service but worth looking into as their kits are scored and notched to "fold" into shape. Saxondog
http://www.steeldragons.net/Indexopen.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.steeldragons.net/Indexopen.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
Rear so far, still loads to do.
- [ICE]monkey
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Re: 1/8 jagdpanther re-build.
shes coming together realy well, opening the rear decks a pain but worth the effort