Introduction

The nice thing about any new model is the possibilities it opens up for producers of AM products. These allow us, the modeller, to customise and enhance whatever we have already bought. Resicast were well ahead of the game with the AFV Churchill release and have had available for some time a complete drop in engine for the AFV Club Churchill kit.

The Churchill was powered by a 12-cylinder, 4 stroke, water-cooled, horizontally opposed petrol engine. It developed a nominal 350 B.H.P. at 2,200 r.p.m.

Detailed references can be found on Armour In Focus where a Mk III is being restored.

The Set

The set comes packed in the standard sturdy professional box supplied with most Resicast kits. Cast in a light gray resin, the items were free from any damage or air bubbles and the clean up looks to be minimal. Inside the box you get 3 plastic zip bags layered in bubble wrap for extra protection. The items are cleanly and crisply cast with excellent detail. Also contained within the box is an A5 eight page set of instructions showing placement for the various engine parts.

The main part of the engine, part M1, is cast in a block which shows excellent detail. The remainder of the parts, including the rear bulkhead, electrical box, dynamo, exhaust collector, right and left side panels, oil filter, carburettor, air filter, pipes and hatch rings are clearly marked, and again all show superb detail, which should make this a fairly easy build if you follow the instructions carefully.

There are some small parts in the kit, so take care to ensure the carpet monster doesn’t get them.

When built the engine is designed to slide into the AFV kit, and apart from any wiring you might wish to add, should give an excellent representation of the actual item. Note the exhaust collectors should be in line with the outlets featured on the engine deck when fitted.

Normal safety precautions should be observed when working with resin.

Conclusion

An excellent addition for any AFV Club Churchill giving that added level of detail and opening up lots of options for the modeller and diorama builder.
Simple, yet detailed in design this should add a lot of interest to your vehicle.