I've had this kit at home for quite a while, but have had absolutely no time to build it. I didn't even have it in my possession as I've been away doing PMT for Afghanistan the last several months. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond my control, my third deployment is on hold. At least I'll have time to get started on the beast.

There's not much to say about the first day's progress, other than to say I wish I'd had my own references with me. I've already identified a couple minor inaccuracies, at least for the particular "block" I'm building.



I'm removing the entire engine deck and placing it on jack stands, but there's still a way to show even more of the engine - by removing the interior access panels.



I thinned the piece from the back side so it will have a more scale appearance.



I'll probably get more done tonight, but I'll have to check each step for any more mods I my need to make.

Off to a good start Rob. I can't wait to see how detailed yo umake the engine area. I hope to start on mine soon, but have a few to finish up first. I'll be watching yours for pointers.

Nice job so far Rob. I won't be buying one of these because I'm TDY to dang much, my stash is too big, and I have several HMMWV projects already planned. So, I'm going to just follow this for part of my MENG Bradley fix.

Nice start, Rob.. can't wait to see what you do with the engine compartment, maybe I can do a little something extra with mine when I start on it.. so please keep posting updates when you can

Hisham

Am I having DEJAVU?!!!!!!

I thought about opening those engine access panels also, but I already had installed that piece before I got the B@#%s to cut open the engine deck. I'll figure something out for the engine side of that wall.

Rob, I don't know if you have pictures of this, but if you don't, see the bulkhead that goes between the engine and turret, it's actually flat and not the round turret part hats in the kit.

Pete, I have not checked this thread until now, so I didn't know you responded. I appreciate that. I have some fairly good photos of my own as well including several of the turret tub interior with the turret removed like yours.

I have finished basic construction of the interior and the turret. I'm doing the most current version, minus the A/C units.
I had to fill in the slots in the rear mainly because you can see them from the inside if looking down through the troop hatch, and they were ugly. It also means upgrading the track. I'm satisfied with it so far.

Building this as well from your excellent walk around . I am very curious as to where you sourced your new tracks and drive sprocket? I'm too far along to change my mind on the Bradley, but there is a paladin that could do with some updating in my stash.

Someone had suggested the Korean K9 SPG a few months ago. I initially dismissed the idea of those tracks, but when I looked at them along with others, they turned out to be just the right width and pitch. The center guides aren't correct but I can live with it if I don't change them. The sprocket just need to be widened with a spacer.

The tracks look good, as does the rest of it. Keep it up.