The journey is coming to an end. We are at the last step of the build, Step 64. We add the front fenders, tow cables, and roof panel.

Instructions


Parts


You are provided two type of tow cable "eyes". The difference is their length, as you can see in the picture.


I selected J86 as it looks like the one used in pictures from my reference books.


RFM uses 3 separate pe parts for the headlight. I found this to be a real pain in the a** to assemble to the headlight. So, I left it off.

The fit of the fenders is not a problem.

The fit of the roof to the superstructure is not perfect. It doesn't sit squarely without a little persuasion.

Pics of finished build








As you can see, the superstructure DOESN’T fit on the lower hull. This is very disappointing. I may play around with the fit and see if I can improve it, but I’m not sure I have the skill level for that.

The level of detail in this kit is next level. With that comes many frustrating issues with getting it all to fit properly. Clearly, I wasn’t successful in getting it perfect. I’m sure more experienced builders won’t have the same issues as I came across. Many times, I had to walk away from the table for a few days and come back with a clear head.

Overall, I enjoyed the challenge of the build, and I was able to push my skill level up a notch. For those that will be building this in the future, hopefully I have highlighted one or two things to help you.

On to the next build.

Thanks, Mark, it was most informative build and I'm sure it would be very useful for fellow modellers including me!

@d11129pw – Mark,

It has been a pleasure and an inspiration following your build. You successfully completed a huge part count kit and that itself is quite a feat. Thanks so much for your effort and for all of the tips while getting this piece together.

~ Eddy

Thanks for the positive comments guys.

Mark, this is an impressive build! Thank you for the in-detail sharing!

Did you fix the problem with the hull fit? How did you do it? Or are you having it on display as an "exploded view"?

This has been a very informative and enjoyable build, thankyou for taking the time to blog it.

Did you resolve the hull issue?

I have just bought the RFM 1/35 Panther Ausf G with full interior - but it has the same problem as this kit - NO SCHURZEN!

Does anyone know which aftermarket Schurzen would be suitable for these kits?

So, curious question. Why use the Gunze Mr Metal Primer when you then go & spray the frets with the Rustoleum product? Kind of 'double handling' isn't it, when you could've just sprayed the Primer in the 1st place?
Just a thought...

I think the Gunze product is the primer, and the second treatment is a primer fixer. They are different products, not both primers.

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to resolve the fit issue. I tried sanding the angled sides of the shell racks. This did help some, but not completely. I'll probably display it "exploded view".

The Gunze "Metal Primer" is not a primer as your thinking of it. It etches the metal so that primer/paint sticks to it better. Once it has been etched, you don't really need the gray primer. You can directly apply paint to the PE. I just prefer to give the paint a better surface to adhere too. So, I apply the primer between the etched surface and the paint..

Other than the fit issue the build looks very good but I have a question: Why did you leave the tools in bare metal when German practice was to paint them with protective lacquer, usually black/dark gray?

I was not aware of that fact. I appreciate the information. I'll make note of it in future builds.