Since this is my first allied tank since my skills developed, I want to make sure I do this right. The instructions call for black pads with metal connectors. Did the connectors get painted or were they left bare metal, and how fast did they rust?
thanks! (++)

The connectors did not get painted and were left a bare steel. Rust could collect on them very quicky IF they stood still for a even a day or two. Since most did not sit still, the rusting was very minimal.
As far as the pads go, do not paint them a pure black but rather a dark grey like an old tire. They were rubber.