Tamiya jagdpanther right idler swinging arm

[kwiky]

Hi all, I sheered the right idler off my tamiya jp about a year ago when I peddle got lodged in the track and because I'm not really that technically minded (I bought it second hand already built) I totally didn't have a clue where to start on fixing it. I believe the part I need is the right idler swinging arm, but I am having trouble sourcing one, and also, how much of the tank needs stripping to refit the new one if I am lucky enough to find one for sale?

I'd really love to get it running again, it's my pride and joy and painting and messing about with it has really helped me get through my 4 year old daughters cancer and chemotherapy, so I'm hoping you guys can help me out here. Thank you in advance.

Kwiky.

[Lert]

A picture of the broken part might help.

[kwiky]

Yes, of course, I'll get one now.

[kwiky]

Here's is a picture of the damage, sorry I can't find the actual idler at the minute.

Ty Fynsdad, I'll get it ordered.

[kwiky]

Ordered the part so hopefully by the end of the week I'll be back in action. I have the ibstructions so fitting it should be ok. Big thanks for the help everyone.

[sassgrunt]

I once had the same part break on a Tamiya Tiger I, and decided that I would upgrade that part so that it didn't happen again. (I also noticed that metal tracks would tend to cause the idler wheels to bend inwards, which led to shedding tracks). At the time, ETO sold a welded-steel replacement part for it, but I don't see it on their site anymore. They now sell a Henn-Tek replacement, (here's a link to one for the Panther: http://www.etoarmour.com/product_detail ... ctID=HT032 I believe that Welsh Dragon also sells them, if that's located more convenient to you). I have bought one of these for a different tank, and really like the quality of it. Also, a lot of people spring-load their idlers, so that there is some 'give' if a rock or twig gets caught up in the track run. It's more complicated to add springs, but is another way to prevent breakage in the future. -Mike

[kwiky]

Thanks for the info, I'll check it out.

[kwiky]

The parts came today and I managed to get them fitted with no problems, it's dead easy eh? My Jagdpanther is alive once more! Thanks for the help chaps.