Free Model #3 - ICM's Panzer IV Ausf D

[KCStephens]

I finally got around to beginning my build for the Free Model #3 contest. I chose ICM's Panzer IV Ausf D. -icm--'sƒy�[ƒp�[ƒ‚ƒfƒ‹ It's a nice little 1:50 scale model that has some very nice details that are usually found on larger size models. (see Charliec's review of this kit here: http://forum.zealot.com/t136235/)
I really enjoy WWII German Armor so I think this is going to be a fun project.

So without further ado....

The first photo shows the 3 printed sheets that make up this kit. I printed 3 sets to allow for layering and the occasional messup. The sheets were then sprayed with Krylon matt spray to help protect them.

[KCStephens]

The next photos show the beginning of the hull construction.
My first attempt was not very sucessful The hull was all twisted and out of square So I had to take another approach! Rather than build the hull from one piece (as printed out according to the directions) I decided to cut off the bottom and attach it as a separate piece later on. This method worked out much better - No twist, perfectly square and sits flat.
I chose to remove the "stock" glue tabs and replace them with my own and while I was at it I also reinforced the inside with 1mm card stock which really stiffened things up. If you are going to build this model I really recommend this approach.

I wanted to add more detail to the bottom of the tub so I decided to remove the ICM logo (sorry guys !!! - No disrespect intended here) and strip in some extra "grey" background from a 2nd copy that I made.

Next step I will add more hull details, suspension, bogies, and road wheels (wish me luck)

[Toddlea]

Looks great so far. I also built the hull the same way. The inner skeleton really helps keep it square.

[zhang9889]

impressive!

[Nemesis7485]

Oh, what I'd give to have an organised desk like that rather than the bomb site mine is.

[KCStephens]

Here are the little bumper stops that go on the side of the hull.









Here are the Bogies and some other little parts:








That's it for now. I have to finish up a few more bogies then time to start the road wheels.

[Fishcarver]

That is really looking good, and I am enjoying the way you are detailing your model!

Regards,
Jim

[jaffro]

Looking great so far... after seeing the impressive job you did on julescrafter's scorpion, I can't wait to see what you do with this one.

[KCStephens]

Thanks for the positive words of encouragement! I really need them now since I'm getting to the part of the build that seems to take forever!!!Wheels and tracks,... wheels and tracks,.... wheels and tracks,.....more and more wheels and tracks........... lots and lots of repetitive cutting - I don't think it will ever end.
One other thing about this build that kind of drives me crazy is that everything is grey. It's very monotone. In the future I'd like to try recoloring it with a "sandy-yellowish-tan" Africa corps color scheme. My next project will defiantly be a more colorful one.

[charliec]

You're lucky the ICM model is grey - the real panzergrau colour was much darker - almost black. Mmm... black fold lines on a near black model - not easy.

Try a Tiger 1 model if you want real pain from cutting out wheels.

Your Pz IV is coming along very nicely.

Regards,

Charlie

Awesome! Thanks for the pics
Chris

[ninja_doc]

Nice build...I'll be watching this one for tips and pointers.

Norbert

[lriera]

You are doing very well HevyKevie, I am learning a lot will your build. Be patient with the hard work I want to see more pictures of your build.
Thank you.

[the4ce]

Great job
I think I will build the model

[RG WILLIAMS]

Super job on the pz 4. I noticed that they also offer a Russian T-34. It looks less complicated to build. Do you think this would be a better choice to build for a new modeler? It looks to be the same scale. Thanks for showing your work.

RG