Motivation to build airplanes is way low so I started Trumpeter's Sd.Kfz.7 Mittlere Zugkraftwagen 8t, early version. Terry Ashley was right, this is a Jekyll and Hyde kit. Lots of flash on small parts, great detail in certain places, crappy moldings that require constant cleanup and truing on mating surfaces and inaccurate instructions. But still ahead of the old Tamiya kit.

However, I persevere and have the basic frame done.











The tracks are a real joy..not...and are very time consuming. But at least they are workable.

Wish mine looked that good. As is, it sits on my shelf. Guess I just wasn't ready to take on a Trumpeter kit. Look forward to more and am glad you came over to the dirty side of modelling.

Thanks Matt. I build lots of armor as well as planes.

More work on the half-track...













Lots of parts....just like a Dragon kit. But at least things are progressing. You have to be careful though and NOT follow the instructions. If you do you're in for heartache.

Mine ended, the ninth time I had to reposition the steering colum. So, I think I will make it a knock out half-track. Yours' looks amazing!

I did a major FUBAR on the front grill. I had an inspiration to grind out the louvered area and detail it up a bit with some styrene strip and I wasn't holding on to the part well enough while wielding the dremel. It flew out of my grip and spun like a pinwheel before shattering into pieces parts and flying across my workroom.

After much cursing and oath letting I sat down and ordered a replacement kit in order to obtain the destroyed piece. GRRRRRRRR!

Oh well, such is life in the modeling world.





My goal is to have the hood/bonnet removable so you can at least see the engine if you want. As it is if you build it per the instructions the engine gets all closed up and you don't get to see the detail.

I'm probably going to re-evaluate my desire to open up the grill shutters as it really won't gain much in the long run (if only I thought of that earlier...doh!)

If you need any more replacement parts, let me know.

Nice build Jeff! Luv them halftracks and this is a good-un!

Thanks Gary. I am having fun with this one.

More work while waiting for my parts kit to arrive...







It's interesting to note the instructions would have you install all the interior hardware for the stowage area doors but then show you to assemble them in the closed position. There are no options on the instructions to show these doors open. And if you did try to assemble them closed with all that extra detail they wouldn't fit.

So, as I said before if you are going to build one of these make sure to plan your steps ahead and don't follow the instructions blindly.

I also painted the road wheels but no pics.....you really want to see pictures of wheels painted on the parts trees?

Good work Jeff!!!
You go show the motor? If yes some wiring there will be cool

I have one of these in my stash, but I'm not certain painting in german gray version or the little know brazilian purshased green version

Keep the good work, I'm track this build with great interest.

Some painting on the motor





I need to find some pics showing the wiring....

More work done:











Next up, more painting, shading, color variation, etc.....

We now have the running gear installed....





Some final detail painting then it's time for future, decals and weathering/washes.

I repeat, do not follow the instructions if you are building one of these. If you do then I can guarantee you won't have any fun. I have found there's certain order of assembly for halftracks. Thank the gods I didn't follow the directions.

Almost there...

weathering and washes added:









Here's the engine compartment:








The stowage items are from the spares box and still need painting and detailing.

more to come..............

Great Build! I love this kit for all the fine underbody detail. You really know this halftrack when you're finished. It is just a shame to cover up all that detail. I always end up wanting to do a blown out halftrack or one undergoing HEAVY maintenance.

I hear you on all the detail. I had never realized what went into making one of these half tracks until I built this kit.