I am trying to open the engine hatches to show off the engine compartment on a 1/72nd scale Panzer IV J, but unfortunately they are molded to the hull. How does one open the hatches that are molded to the hull without destroying the hull?

If they are simple plate types, the best route is to drill chain linked holes with a mini drill on low speed. Cut the linked holes and smooth the opening with a file. Measure and cut new hatches from sheet styrene.

Jack

Jody,
Try using sewing thread. Polyester to be specific. Drill a small pilot hole on the very edge of the hatch to put the thread through and then using a see saw motion begin sawing around the perimeter of the hatch. You lose a lot less plastic this way and the resulting hole can be easily cleaned up with a small file. Bring your stuff weds night and I'll demonstrate for ya'. Looking forward to seeing this project of your completed.

For those of you who dont know about this project, he is scratch building a complete interior for a 1/72 YES 1/72!!, Panzer 4. I have seen the turret and it looks absolutely outstanding. Jody you need to send in some pics of it or I can send the ones in I took of the turret. Practice the sewing thread cutting on some scrap kits to get the hang of it. Once you do you'll never go back to anything else...trust me. "Q" AKA Matt

Another type of cutting material in addition to thread is dental floss.

these are interesting news! try and see where to get these magic strings!
guess my way of opening such hatches is too old fashined then:
I use a fresh x-acto blade and sourround the part with the tip, with gentle pressure, until it is cut out.
In some cases the hatch maybe destroyed, but the hull remains untouched.
but in this case scratching a panzer IV engine hatch, which would be too thick anyway, should no be the issue, when the whole interior is going to be scratched. scratching the hatch is a warm up only I think...

regards, werer

1/72nd scale..... showing off enigne compartments...... That is small with a capital S....

If someone has a pic, I'd really like to see it.....

It takes a skilled hand and a fine eye to scratchbuild on 1/72nd. I'd love to see that !

I'll send the pics I have of the turret in to have them posted. It includes a turned aluminum barrel, elevation gears and cranks, shell cathcer basket thingy, coax and the sight system...looks incedible at its current level. I'll see him again tomorrow night and I hope he brings it with him so I can get soe more pics of it. I just recently jumped off into 1/72 armor and this stuff is giving some inspiration to do some wild stuff with my kits.... Dont be shy Jody...your work is great!! Chime in and let the follks know how its coming... :-) "Q"