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Armor/AFV: IDF [Israeli Defense Forces]
Armor and AFVs of the IDF army from 1947-today.
Hosted by Darren Baker
Merkava Mk.4M w/Trophy APS (Meng-1/35th)
errains
#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
KitMaker: 362 posts
Armorama: 350 posts
Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 06:40 AM UTC
Hello Everyone!

It has been several years since I last posted a build here so I felt it was time to do so again.

Here is a photo of the base kit and some extra goodies I plan to include for this build.



First order of business for me is to assemble the major hull and turret components and identify any fit issues. Of course being a fairly new kit there were no issues.





After the major component assemblies checked out I then mounted them to their respective building boards, one for hull and one for the turret. The building boards help minimize direct handling and facilitate safe storage and transporting while this kit is being built.



THANKS for stopping in for a look and as always comments are welcome.
M4A1Sherman
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New York, United States
Joined: May 02, 2013
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 07:22 AM UTC

Quoted Text

Hello Everyone!

It has been several years since I last posted a build here so I felt it was time to do so again.

Here is a photo of the base kit and some extra goodies I plan to include for this build.



First order of business for me is to assemble the major hull and turret components and identify any fit issues. Of course being a fairly new kit there were no issues.





After the major component assemblies checked out I then mounted them to their respective building boards, one for hull and one for the turret. The building boards help minimize direct handling and facilitate safe storage and transporting while this kit is being built.



THANKS for stopping in for a look and as always comments are welcome.



Hi Eric and welcome back!

I stayed away from my modeling for about two years, too- (health reasons)

Just looking at your initial photos of your build, it looks like you're VERY WELL PREPARED! I'll be following this thread, as I've always liked the very "looks" of the Merkava-series!

I have a question which you or some of the other fellas may be able to answer for me:

Are there any current or updated kits of the latest US M1 Abrams versions with the "Trophy System"? If not, is the US version of "Trophy" available in "after-market"..?

THANKS, GUYS!!!
errains
#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 07:31 AM UTC
Thanks for stopping in Dennis.
I'm not aware of any current releases of the Abrams Trophy(but I could be mistaken)...That would be awesome if someone would. I'm actually surprised that the likes of Black Dog haven't done so yet. But I'm sure it will only be a matter of time.

An Abrams with Trophy, a TUSK package and CROWS...that would be Kool
M4A1Sherman
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 07:50 AM UTC

Quoted Text

Thanks for stopping in Dennis.
I'm not aware of any current releases of the Abrams Trophy(but I could be mistaken)...That would be awesome if someone would. I'm actually surprised that the likes of Black Dog haven't done so yet. But I'm sure it will only be a matter of time.

An Abrams with Trophy, a TUSK package and CROWS...that would be Kool



YESSS! ESPECIALLY with the newest "Low-Profile" CROWS- I understand that the Army will be getting the latest M1A2Cs, right along... HOORAY FOR US!!!
panzerbob01
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 01:23 PM UTC
Eric R.;

Hi! I'm currently WIP with Takom's 2B... One of the common features of all Mk. 2, 3, and 4 Merks is the broad application of non-slip coatings on upper hull and turret surfaces... For the 2B kit, it's a case of modeler DIY.

Looking at your pics, I cannot tell for sure whether your Meng 4 kit has a molded-on non-slip surface... Does it? I don't mind doing the DIY surfacing, but having a good representation already in place would be a nice break, seeing as I see a Mk. 3LIC in my future and I am thinking of getting the Meng 4 w/ Trophy, and I suppose, being forewarned is sorta like being forearmed!

Bob
dwnrng44
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Michigan, United States
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 04:19 PM UTC
The Meng Merkava IV has the non-slip molded on.
panzerbob01
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 05:48 PM UTC

Quoted Text

The Meng Merkava IV has the non-slip molded on.



Thanks! That's good news - I hope! I'll have to take a look at how the molded-on surface looks!

Bob
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#045
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Posted: Sunday, March 24, 2019 - 10:46 PM UTC
While the Meng does have the Anti-Skid/Slip texture molded into the hull and turret it seems a bit understated when compared to the real deal. Not sure what I'll do with it...if anything.
M4A1Sherman
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Posted: Monday, March 25, 2019 - 01:32 AM UTC

Quoted Text

While the Meng does have the Anti-Skid/Slip texture molded into the hull and turret it seems a bit understated when compared to the real deal. Not sure what I'll do with it...if anything.



My 2-cents worth:

What I will do in replicating "non-slip" is, rather than doing all kinds of complicated stuff like applying some sort of adhesive, then strewing "grit" on that, overlaid with rough primer-coats and "what-have-you", and then sanding it all down, re-priming and then having to go through the whole rigamarole all over again, is this:

First I mask off the areas that are supposed to get the "non-slip". Then, I just get hold of one of my cheap-ass TESTORS nylon paint brushes, and then I quickly "dab" the respective surfaces of the model that is supposed to have the "non-slip" surfaces with a very small amount of TESTORS Liquid Cement for STYRENE. (Hint: The TESTORS Liquid Cement costs about HALF of TAMIYA's, and does the same job).

I remove the masking tape while the just-dabbed "non-slip" surface is still sort of tacky-wet, in order to prevent any "unpleasantness" later. If any of the cement has "seeped" under the masking tape, it's no big deal to sand the marred plastic surface, after having masked the "non-slip" surface after it has completely dried, so as to preserve the "non-slip's" "straight edges"... One can also use GUNZE Primer, but that stuff is on the expensive side, too... NOTE: PRACTICE on an old piece of junk first, in order to get your "hand"...

OK, call me "cheap"; I prefer to call myself "frugal"...

I like using this method as the "non-slip" surfaces will then not look "over-stated", as to "scale-effect"...

IF the model in question ALREADY HAS "non-slip" molded on the plastic surfaces, I LEAVE IT WELL-ENOUGH ALONE. Why stick your head in a bee-hive..?

Works for ME, anyway...
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#045
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Posted: Monday, March 25, 2019 - 02:15 AM UTC
Thanks Dennis!
I was thinking along the same lines was you are. Ture I could probably get by with not doing nothing to it...but really would like to give it a little more something. I'll have to think on it.
panzerbob01
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Posted: Monday, March 25, 2019 - 04:33 AM UTC

Quoted Text

Thanks Dennis!
I was thinking along the same lines was you are. Ture I could probably get by with not doing nothing to it...but really would like to give it a little more something. I'll have to think on it.



It's all about what YOU want in your build. There is a wide spectrum of things done by modelers regarding the non-slip coating "issue" on Merks and other AFV (and just Sat last, I helped a plane-builder at our club meet with his quest to put this onto the walk-strips on a wing of a build... ).

Lots of routes, techniques, and outcomes - OPTIONS -out there!

My suggestion, for what is worth, is for you to google or otherwise search images of Merks and assess what you may want your build to look like, and then look at what folks have done with their Merks in this regard. You may well find, as I've done, that there are "doable" routes to get it looking pretty good - seeing the outcomes of various options actually done is super-informative.

Regards molded-on non-slip... I've not seen it in play, so don't know anything about how good it may look. But I don't know anything about changing or "improving" a molded-on surface. It's the kit in hand for you and may well be that's what it is!

Looking forward to seeing how the build and finishing go!

Cheers! Bob
cabasner
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Nevada, United States
Joined: February 12, 2012
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Posted: Monday, March 25, 2019 - 10:49 PM UTC
Eric, thanks for posting your effort here! I have the same kit and have started the build. I had taken a break with this build, and while I distinctly recall placing the Trophy launchers and many of the periscope clear parts in a bag for safekeeping, when I returned to the build last weekend, I seem to have lost those parts. Maddening! So, I’ve ordered a new kit. I’ll have lots of spares!

I’ve been impressed with Meng kits, this one being no exception. I’ve also built the Academy Merkava IV LIC and the Takom Merkava I and have the Merkava I Hybrid yet to be built. I really like these IDF subjects! I’ll be watching your build with interest. My Mark IV/Trophy Merkava is going to be one from the Vulcan brigade, as I have the Michael Mass book about these tanks, and I really like the plywood insignia that hangs on the back of that tank, plus the huge amount of cables/wires and other such equipment (i.e. rotating beacons, etc.) on board for the exercises that tank was participating in, as photographed.
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#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 - 08:56 AM UTC
Hi Curt,
I remember you posting some questions regarding Merk4m's when I getting the kit together. That is Madding about losing the parts. Just look it like this...Use the other to test new building techniques that you don't want to do on your good kit or make it into a paint mule.

It sounds like you and I are going down the same road on how to finish our Merks. I'm going to have one of them plywood insignia boards on the back of the turret too. Post up some pics of your Merk when you get back into it, I would really like to see your approach to the same subject.

Thanks for stopping in and good luck
U-mark
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Michigan, United States
Joined: January 04, 2017
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Posted: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 - 09:08 AM UTC
Blast models has just released a resin low profile CROWS system.
U-mark
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Michigan, United States
Joined: January 04, 2017
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Posted: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 - 09:14 AM UTC
Eric,Welcome back. I got back into the hobby a few years ago and started out with 1/32 aircraft but I have made the switch to armor. I built this kit a few months ago and it is like most Meng kits, very detailed and very good fit. The Merkava kits have the easiest individual link tracks I've seen. Just two parts, top and bottom. I think you will be pleased with the results. Looking forward to your posts. Mark
KruppCake
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Ontario, Canada
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Posted: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 - 10:06 AM UTC
Hi Eric,

Would you mind posting a list of the after market add-ons you will be using? I have the same kit and couldn’t find the appropriate upgrades for it, including PE and a barrel.
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#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 - 11:10 PM UTC
No problem...



1: Magic Models-(MM35172) 120 mm barrel MG253. Merkava Mk.IVM (MENG)
If I can assemble this properly it should look awesome

2: Meng Models-(MNGSPS056) Merkava Mk.4M Fully Loaded Rear Baskets
Resin add-ons…A bit on expensive side

3: Legend Productions-(LF1180) Merkava Mk.4 Detailing set
While not for the 4M directly most if not all can be use on this this. This was my first replacement barrel but was badly warded so I went with Magic Models.

4: SKP Model-(SKP 136) Merkava IV Lenses and taillights

5: Desert Eagle Publishing-(DEP35-006) Update Set & Fuel Barrel Mounting for Merkava 4 & 4m
Nice detail set, A bit on expensive side as well. I suggest this detail over Legend’s if you only chose one. They also make the battering ram as well…I like the looks the aggressive tow horns better

6: Leopard Club-(W034B) German Comrod Aerials
While not strictly IDF aerials these are some of the best modern Aerial on the market. The Update set from Desert Eagle come with two but if you want more the that on your Merk I strongly suggest using this set.

If I had to do it over I would replace the tracks with Friulmodel Track Link Set - Merkava Mk. IV

Hope this helps and looking forward to seeing your Merk build posted here.

KruppCake
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Ontario, Canada
Joined: July 13, 2015
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 12:14 AM UTC

Quoted Text

No problem...



1: Magic Models-(MM35172) 120 mm barrel MG253. Merkava Mk.IVM (MENG)
If I can assemble this properly it should look awesome

2: Meng Models-(MNGSPS056) Merkava Mk.4M Fully Loaded Rear Baskets
Resin add-ons…A bit on expensive side

3: Legend Productions-(LF1180) Merkava Mk.4 Detailing set
While not for the 4M directly most if not all can be use on this this. This was my first replacement barrel but was badly warded so I went with Magic Models.

4: SKP Model-(SKP 136) Merkava IV Lenses and taillights

5: Desert Eagle Publishing-(DEP35-006) Update Set & Fuel Barrel Mounting for Merkava 4 & 4m
Nice detail set, A bit on expensive side as well. I suggest this detail over Legend’s if you only chose one. They also make the battering ram as well…I like the looks the aggressive tow horns better

6: Leopard Club-(W034B) German Comrod Aerials
While not strictly IDF aerials these are some of the best modern Aerial on the market. The Update set from Desert Eagle come with two but if you want more the that on your Merk I strongly suggest using this set.

If I had to do it over I would replace the tracks with Friulmodel Track Link Set - Leopard 2

Hope this helps and looking forward to seeing your Merk build posted here.




Awesome, thank you very much! I will see if I can get my hands on some of those here, in Toronto. I know the Meng baskets are ultra expensive.
dwnrng44
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Michigan, United States
Joined: September 15, 2009
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 08:13 AM UTC
I'm guessing you meant to link to Fruil Merk IV tracks, not Leopard? But I used the Fruilmodel tracks on my Academy Merkava Mk IV and they are nice.Just finished up the Masterclub tracks for my Meng Mk IV Trophy build. I like the way they go together, plus a lot cheaper than Fruilmodel. I really wanted to save money and try and use the Meng kit tracks, but the gap between the link halves is terrible.
errains
#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 09:01 AM UTC

Quoted Text

I'm guessing you meant to link to Fruil Merk IV tracks, not Leopard?

Thanks for catch...Link is corrected.
Hmmmm...I wonder what My next project is going to be...
errains
#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 09:07 AM UTC

Quoted Text

I really wanted to save money and try and use the Meng kit tracks, but the gap between the link halves is terrible.



I'm unfortunately am pass the point on no return using kit tracks so I'm stuck with them The tracks are by far the worst part of this kit.

KruppCake
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Ontario, Canada
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 09:15 AM UTC
Eric,

Would you happen to know of any way to rig the main gun so that it’s movable? The kit is intended to be built with it fixed.
M4A1Sherman
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 09:17 AM UTC

Quoted Text

Blast models has just released a resin low profile CROWS system.



Yeeaaaah- I saw that over on "The Modelling News" Official Site, along with other neat stuff for Strykers, just last night.

THANKS for your "heads-Up", too!
M4A1Sherman
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 09:21 AM UTC

Quoted Text


Quoted Text

I really wanted to save money and try and use the Meng kit tracks, but the gap between the link halves is terrible.



I'm unfortunately am pass the point on no return using kit tracks so I'm stuck with them The tracks are by far the worst part of this kit.




Oh, see? Now THAT's ANOTHER BIG "HEADS-UP"!!! Guess I'll have to plan on getting a set of FRIULs for this project... Not quite ready to buy for a few more weeks...
errains
#045
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South Carolina, United States
Joined: September 23, 2005
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Posted: Wednesday, March 27, 2019 - 12:15 PM UTC

Quoted Text

Would you happen to know of any way to rig the main gun so that it’s movable? The kit is intended to be built with it fixed.



I heard that the main gun was fix but have not gotten to that point in my build. I'll take look ASAP to see if there is a way to "un"fix it. I was planning on displaying the finished Merk in a hull down position so it's on my to do list.
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