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As far
as 1:35th scale model kits go, Tamiya's is
very nice and modeler-friendly. There aren't
major problems to speak of while building
it, encouraging the modeler to go an extra
step to add more details to make their
project special.
The
model rewards the builder - the more you add
the better it looks. It remains fun to work
on throughout - beginning to end.
Not
satisfied with the radio provided in the
Tamiya model kit, I scratchbuilt my own
SCR-506 High-Frequency Radio Set for this
miniature, with Headset. Why? Because it was
there, I suppose. You really so not have to
go to this extent.
The
extra M1 Carbines in the Fighting
Compartment and Driver's Compartment came
from Tamiya's US WW II Infantry Equipment
Set (new). Miscellaneous spares came from my
parts bin.The Engine Compartment in my
miniature is a blend of scratchbuilt parts
with Verlinden and Jaguar resin details. The
Fuel Tank, Wiring & Cabling, some
Radiator and Fan parts, and Engine Supports
are mine. Jaguar's Engine, Access (Breather)
Hatches, Side Walls, and 12-Volt Electrical
System details join portions of Verlinden's
Radiator/Fan Assembly (mated to the Tamiya
rear bulkhead because I lost the resin
replacement part in the accident), Air
Cleaner, Carburetor, and Filter. In the end,
all of it came together better than my
original effort, and looked like the M20's
powerplant.
Also
missing from these photos are four little
latches that go on the Engine Hatches. Like
the buckles for the Jerry Cans &
Equipment Straps, I set these little parts
aside to add after taking the photos. Again,
Tamiya's model kit captures the look and
feel of the M20 Armored Utility Car
wonderfully. The basic model kit doesn't cry
out for additional detailing, so good is
what's already there. Little details, like
air valve stems on the tires and the other
details I incorporated into this miniature
only add spice to the stew Tamiya gives you
ingredients for.
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