TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 TransportPanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

The interior of the cabin is equally complex. But my TPz-1 will have windows so I will probably at least try to build something interesting to look at when the doors are opened and interior lights are on.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
I do have the clear parts for the windows.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Excellent access to the interior electronics and the FLW-200 station are provided by removable front cabin and hull top sections.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The model as it stands today
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Next step is to continue to building of the main hull and the add-on armor plates.

Regards, Louis
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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

Hi,
Continuing the hull buildup, the engine grills

The engine grills have never been a strong area of a Ludwig base kit. They are usually of the wrong dimension and extremely basic. Although an earlier Fuchs version, i thought the 1/35 Revell Fuchs would provide me with accurate dimensions and placement.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture4.JPG (96.09 KiB) Viewed 2986 times
I purchased AFV-Model resin Fuchs grills thinking they would provide a good replacement for the Ludwig parts.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
It did not take me long to notice that the whole thing is wrong. None of the three compares to each others. And the AFV-Model grills do not fit the Ludwig slots and the larger grill dimensions are not right.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Then after some research on http://www.panzer-modell.de, it became apparent that the A8 version has new air filters setup on top, a small planning error on my part. The Ludwig Fuchs A8 version kit sprue do not have any parts for them.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture.JPG (53.59 KiB) Viewed 2986 times
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture2.JPG (87.73 KiB) Viewed 2986 times
I still glued the provided Ludwig parts in place, mainly to fill the wholes and provide a base for the new air filters.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Few good pictures exists of the Fuchs grills, all I could find are partial shots. I extrapolated and created a base for the air filters.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture8.JPG (79.61 KiB) Viewed 2986 times
The Fuchs A8 version has extra armour around the vehicle, some parts are provided, some are not. The add-on armoured plate for the roof of the cabin need to be scratch built. Many dents need to be made to make room for the air filter hinges.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The main grills and air filter parts are made and put in place. JTT 97413 Clapboard Siding plasticard is used to simulate the angled grills, a leftover from the Centurion build. Notice the extra armored plate on the hood. The resin hatch is from AFV_model and is a good placement for the Ludwig parts. The A8 air filters are in two sections, not three.

The grill are still work in progress, requiring handles, hinges and mesh.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Regards, Louis
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PainlessWolf
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by PainlessWolf »

Good afternoon,
Aftermarket parts sort of cause me anxiety exactly for the issues that you ran into with the replacement grills. I'm looking forward to seeing your completed roof with new filtering unit. That will be some worthy eye candy. ;o)
regards and still following along,
Painless
Last edited by PainlessWolf on Tue Apr 28, 2020 5:32 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

Thank you Painless for your encouragements.

Time to put wheels and tires on the Fuchs.

After receiving the shaft extensions that i had ordered, i determined they cannot be used in any arrangement. These are made to fit into a 3mm round shaft. They will be of use in some future build where i will need to connect WPL wheels to a DIY axle arrangement but not here. After further study, I also determine the extension required to the WPL axles need to be between 15 and 20mm on each side. That's a lot.

Time to execute Plan B.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Plan B is a simple and cheap plan to glue two regular WPL wheels together for a 15mm extension on each side.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Six wheels are prepared using residual WPL wheels I had in storage.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Quickly installed on the Fuchs.

Looks could be improved but clearance is good, including steering.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Notice Fuchs A8 add-on armor on the front hull.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
I think my objectives of creating an affordable and effective drive train for the Fuchs build are met. In all, the cost of the whole drive train is less than 200$, shipping included, for all the items; Axles, motors, gearbox, drive shafts, pull rods, dampers, shock absorbers, mounts, wheels and tires. Alternatives to use German made specialized items I saw on the web would have been prohibitive, adding up way above 1000$ for similar metal components, and probably a lot more complex and risky.

Regards, Louis
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by PainlessWolf »

Good morning, Louis,
Genius on the wheel solution! I can see you machining off the tire mounting rings on the inner rims to give even more clearance and more of a solid drum look to the mounts. Amazing Stuff!
regards,
Painless
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

Thank you Painless !

Continuing with the buildup of the main hull components, without the fine details that will be added only later because these details would be damaged during the heavy building phase.

As seen in these great detailed pictures from http://www.panzer-modell.de, the TPz-1 A8 is equipped with add-on armor all around and side bins that makes it a very sleek, modern and interesting vehicle.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
As the add-of armor covers much of the vehicle sides, the area that will be visible from the top under the bins is given plasticard sections to simulates the armor plates, there is no point covering the whole area under the bins.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Thankfully, Ludwigs Modellbau provides parts for the A8 side bins and most add on armor plates that would be quite difficult to replicate from scratch. They are a lot of work and good references are needed to make them accurate. Notice the add-on armor on the lower hull sides in the front and middle section between the road wheels.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
They have a lot of details and are not easy to assemble. The left side has the whole lower area covered with ventilation holes for the exhaust pipe that runs under it from behind the cabin all the way to the back.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture6.JPG (97.28 KiB) Viewed 2927 times
Here, you can see where this is going. I find the Fuchs A8 to be a very beautiful vehicle.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
My American friends might not be aware that the Fuchs is in service in the US Army as an NBC vehicle, designated M93 Fox NBCRS (Nuclear Biological Chemical Reconnaissance System), with 123 units.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Thankfully, AFV_Model sells a resin and photo-etched model of the Fuchs exhaust stack and it will add a lot of value to the model and will be interesting to make. Noticed the overlapping armored plates at the back and the mounting screws.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture8.JPG (36.17 KiB) Viewed 2927 times
The mounting screws will be added soon.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Overview of the TPz-1 Fuchs A8. Notice the FLW-200 remote weapon station equipped with 40mm grenade launcher. This exact weapon system will be reproduced and should be interesting to make operational with the TK40.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture7.JPG (64.64 KiB) Viewed 2927 times
And how the Ludwig build compares so far. It should be a good looking Fuchs. I ordered some other tires from the web, i will determine if they are a better fit when i get them.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

Hi, continuing the build

In the planning stage, i noticed these WPL C-34 Jeep tires that seem to be a close match to the required Michelin 14.00 R 20 XL18 seen on the fuchs. I purchased a lot of 12 of these tires and wheels for the ridiculous low price of $15 on ebay, shipping included... They arrived today.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture.JPG (94.98 KiB) Viewed 2903 times
There are 4 types of tires seen on Fuchs. My idea was to match the Michelin seen on the top right. .
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
I was happily surprised that the WPL Jeep tires are a perfect size match, exactly the extra 5mm in diameter that i was looking for. The tread style is also quite close to the Michelin.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The issue is that these tires fit a different wheel, the Jeep tires do not fit the B36 wheels. I therefore had to use the Jeep wheels and remount them with the previous extensions that were on the B36 wheels. I followed Painlesswolf's suggestion to cut the rims and create a streamlined drum like extension. I also took the opportunity to add a 4mm thick plasticard ring that brings the extension to 19mm on each wheel. It will fit better the axle width i have seen on the Fuchs. Now it is the wheel itself that does not match the Fuchs pattern. I will try to find a proper overlay to apply on top.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
This is the right side of the Fuchs. Be aware that the Ludwig module needed a rework of the frontal bin area to match reference pictures.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture3.JPG (79.39 KiB) Viewed 2903 times
The Fuchs with its new tires and right side bins.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Close up of the front bin. It's not perfect but it closely match.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The width of the axle are wider and looks better now.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
View of the bins from the top. The mounts for the bins that connects to the hull had to be reduced in size in order to avoid too much gaps between the top cover and the hull.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The vehicle as it stands today.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Regards, Louis
Last edited by lmcq11 on Fri May 01, 2020 1:41 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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PainlessWolf
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by PainlessWolf »

Louis,
That is exactly what I imagined and they are amazing! The mod turned out so very, very well. Looks Stock and looks Solid!
Following along,
Painless
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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

thank you Painlesss

This post are for the front lights.

The Tpz-1 front light arrangements are complicated. That little bracket at the bottom is something i could not reproduce, not matter what or how i tried. I determined that If it cannot be made to look good, then it is better to leave it off.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture.JPG (78.07 KiB) Viewed 2858 times
The first step is to fill the gapping hole inside the headlight area. No parts are provided by Ludwig for this. It is harder than it looks, many angles and it needs to be done twice.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture1.JPG (92.4 KiB) Viewed 2858 times
This is the Leopard 1 style front light sold by Christian. It is a bit too big and the shape needs to be reworked. The night light need to be removed. As usual, an inexpensive Led light set bought on eBay from China is used.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The head light is stripped out of most features to resemble reference pictures.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
The light is mounted in its front hole area. Its too big but it will have to do. The clear lens will be installed after painting.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture2b.JPG (97.97 KiB) Viewed 2858 times
AFV_Model sells a Fuchs (non working) night light mounted on a plate for installation on top of the headlight hole at the front. It is of questionable quality. The hard metal is also difficult to work with.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture3.JPG (43.77 KiB) Viewed 2858 times
The guards on the AFV-Model plate are not reproduced correctly. When trying to gently reposition them by folding the metal, they just broke. They had to be replaced with brass rods. They were annoying and it took longer to use these purchased parts than scratch build them.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture4.JPG (94.13 KiB) Viewed 2858 times
The headlight area is finished with additional details.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Notice the extra small armor plates behind the head light, it need to be scratch built through eyeball.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
This is the AFV_Model blinker seen on most German vehicles. I liked this one, finally.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Continuing on following post.
Last edited by lmcq11 on Sat Jun 06, 2020 10:51 pm, edited 9 times in total.
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lmcq11
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Re: TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer - Bundeswehr - Build

Post by lmcq11 »

The blinker is installed on its small pedestal behind the front door. A small guard need to be reproduced on top, in brass.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Capture8.JPG (91.34 KiB) Viewed 2857 times

This is the model today. The LEDs are getting their last testing before moving on to something else.
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
RC 1/16 TPz-1 A8 Fuchs 6x6 Transportpanzer build
Next step, the front doors.

Regards, Louis
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