Have a few more pics on what's going on with this build. I decided to go with as much metal as I could so I went with the shaft supports (SH0025), gearbox braces (SH0029) and the Hexagon screw set (SH0020) that replaces those nasty looking kit phillips head screws in the suspension. Plus I sprang for the metal oil reservoir set too.



It's been long discussed to solder the metal reservoirs but discussing it and it playing out are completely different. You better make sure it is straight before the solder flows or they'll end up crooked.



I used my trusty 5 minute epoxy which allows you to reposition as it sets so that the piece is nice and straight!



Plus, you can add more epoxy on the inside to add more strength to the bond. I have the stock plastic pieces installed this way on my first Sherman and after 3 years they haven't come off!




Plus I added the metal conical springs and the metal end plates with the nickel silver metal suspension set (SH011) which replaces those plastic pieces C5, C9 and MS1. Plus, metal bearings where added and everything's been painted.



Here's a few finished shots of the tow pieces I made.



I borrowed the tow hooks from my BYA Easy Eight kit that I never used to finish out what Tamiya left off.



Still much more to do, lots of metal detail left to prep and glue in. I'll work on assembling the suspension this weekend and make my way to the upper hull where I must add the fender extensions and scratch the tubular supports, glue in all the lifting hooks and much more.

Happy Thanksgiving!


Jeff