M1A1 Thunder Run: Finishing Turret Upgrades

[Uncarina]

Thanks to the wonderful builds that I've seen, and the advice I've received since joining this forum, I'm inspired to share my build log of the Heng Long Abrams M1A2. I received the basic kit with zinc motors, and purchased the following (so far):
--metal tracks with rubber pads
--metal idlers with support bar
--metal sprockets
--metal support arms and springs
--Ultimate Edition II gearbox/motors
--360 degree slipring

I've also ordered the Tamiya Pershing sprue with the 0.50 cal machine gun, since it's much nicer than the HL version. I will be attempting to replace some of the more obvious molded-on features, and backdate the M1A2 to an M1A1, 3rd Infantry Division, OIF 2003.

Hope you like it! Cheers, Tom





I drilled holes in the metal sprockets:




Replacing some surface details (I'm starting at the front and working my way back, more or less, and will be attaching some parts after adding the anti-slip):




Casting numbers added using numbers shaved off sprues:

[ALPHA]

LOOKING GOOD Uncarina

ALPHA

[Uncarina]

Alpha, thanks! Will post pics of the cupola removal surgery.

Cheers, Tom

[Uncarina]

Success! I was able to remove the cupola, after drilling out the three fixing pegs, adding debonder, and drilling extra holes around the perimeter from underneath. It was glued on tight, but I managed to extricate it with minimal damage.

Cheers, Tom

[ALPHA]

I saw it earlier...forgot to ask Ucarina...is that a skull on the mount that graces the mantlet

Interesting note on your cupola removal....my Abrams had very little glue on the perimeter of the ring....but a lot on those three pins


ALPHA

[Uncarina]

Alpha and Paul,

Thanks! Yes, this one had a zealous glue applicator. That's a Milliput prototype skull I've added--not sure if it will make the final cut!

Cheers, Tom

[ALPHA]

LOL....It's twisted (in a good way) ....Something a crew might add


it's a very original idea....I kind of like it

Merry Christmas Ucarina


ALPHA

[Uncarina]

Alpha,

It actually adorned the M1a1HC "All Bout Da Bones" in 2003: http://armorama.com/modules.php?op=modl ... _id=210167

Happy Holidays! Tom

[ALPHA]

Alpha,

It actually adorned the M1a1HC "All Bout Da Bones" in 2003: http://armorama.com/modules.php?op=modl ... _id=210167

Happy Holidays! Tom

Scalawag did the same model...I wonder if he used yours as a reference ...Pretty surprised you use solder for 1/35th scale...not that there is anything wrong with it...it just faster to use Krazy glue lol....it also helps paint stick to the brass

So you ARE going to keep the skull???...Would be cool if you did

ALPHA

[Uncarina]

Alpha,

Thanks, yes, I was planning to keep the skull and tie chicken bones to the gun, per the original! I must say the 1/35 build isn't mine--but I'd be proud if it were!

Cheers, Tom