Some general comments/suggestions for the build:
You can replace the wheels with Merkava II wheels if you want.
HobbyBoss has made some minor accuracy mistakes that need careful research and comparing to photos of the real vehicle in order to correct, such as the rear mudguard length,exhaust caps, positioning of braces and handles etc.
Continuing with the instructions:
On Step 10 do not use parts D30, D43, C13, D38, D51, PE-2, C50, and G2. Parts PE-3 and C30 are optional, part F14 can be replaced with photoetch parts from the conversion set or used as it is. Remove the hinge details on the upper side of part D32
Step 11 instructs you to place the fenders on the lower hull. I suggest adding the biggest parts of the fenders (E1, E2) to the hull assembly and then work on the front fender modification (parts G14 and G15).
Step 12 is the RWS and nothing needs to be changed.
On step 13 you only need one Mag assembly, you can omit the tripod mount.
On step 14 do not use parts C47, PE-1 if you are adding the Doghouse.
Step 15 should be omitted if you are adding the doghouse.
On step 16 do not use assembly K-K if you are adding the Doghouse, make only the left hatch assembly (the right one as you are looking at the instructions) and do not use part D49. Remember to remove the sideskirt positioning blocks on the sides of part G16.
Step 17 should be omitted if you are adding the doghouse.
On step 18 do not add assembly M-M if you are adding the Doghouse.
On step 19 do not use parts C55 and C61 if you are adding a mine roller.
I am trying to find out if part D22 should be holed out (the left exhaust pipe). HobbyBoss has molded the exhaust caps shut on parts D22 and D23, but the conversion set supplies an exhaust gas deflector for the left exhaust, so it seems logical that there is no exhaust cap there. I will post this info the following days.
Steps 20,21 and 22 show the side skirt assemlies that replaced by the new heavier armored side skirts of the conversion set. I am planning to use part D73 (ladder) and place it on the engine deck instead of the right side.
Some photos of my progress, I will try to assemble everything that is used from the kit parts and then start modifying or adding details from the conversion sets. I will try to clean up all the resin pieces during this weekend.