Tristar PzKpfw 38t Ausf A

[lquah]

I present my latest build - backdating Tristar's PzKpfw 38t Ausf B to an Ausf A.

This is probably one of the simplest conversion and very enjoyable. Some of the things that need to be done are:
- adding a tubular battle aerial
- un-armored commander's observation periscope
- relocate front and rear fender reflectors
- MG37's with no flash hider
- shovel and pickaxe stowed across the engine access hatch on the rear
- no notek light and convoy light
- no bump stop behind first roadwheel
- no rain guard above the sight aperture
- no mounting handle on left side of turret and upper hull
- no stop for turret MG
- narrower roadwheels with thicker steel bands
- early type tracks with solid guide horns

Here are the photos:

I lost one of the armored visors. It fell onto the wooden floor and promptly disappeared Anyone got a spare?



Left side


Front


Rear. I used the shovel from Voyager and replaced the kit handle with one made from brass rod. The track tension adjuster was also drilled through and bolt details added. It needs to be flipped upside down as the instructions are incorrect.



Close-ups. I love those Tichy rivets




The rear strap for the jack is way too long and I will need to cut if off, shorten it and solder it back on.



I am not going to thin the rubber tire as I don't think it will be noticeable. I will use the Tamiya roadwheel as it has thicker rim.



I still haven't decided on what to do with the tracks. No one currently makes the early type tracks. My options are:
1 - wait for someone like MK or Fruilmodel to release a set
2 - use the kit late tracks (they were usually replaced with the late type when the originals were worn out)
3 - use Tamiya vinyl tracks
4 - use the kit's tracks and fill in the recessed guide horns with putty

All comments welcomed as always

LQ