Let's share track sources...
06-09-2009 | 01:29 PM
#1
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From: , ON, CANADA
Let's share track sources...
Hey all,
As I finish my scratchbuilt Crusader, and flail about for my next project, I'm realizing that the biggest impediment to building many less than common tanks is decent sources of tracks.
For the crusader, I was able to substitute tracks from a Heng Long Panzer 3. My planned Hezter build will probably use tracks from a 1/25 scale Academy Panzer.
But I was thinking that if we had a thread which outlined other sources of track material, it would be helpful.
For example, I have seen kids toys of farm tractors and caterpillar building equipments in larger scales that have plastic link, metal link and vinyl track - some of these might be useful for certain tanks.
I'd love to eventually do a Somua or Char B, and a Valentine. Strikes me that there may be existing tracks from other corners of the toy/model market that could be used.
If anyone has any thoughts, jump in!
Shep
As I finish my scratchbuilt Crusader, and flail about for my next project, I'm realizing that the biggest impediment to building many less than common tanks is decent sources of tracks.
For the crusader, I was able to substitute tracks from a Heng Long Panzer 3. My planned Hezter build will probably use tracks from a 1/25 scale Academy Panzer.
But I was thinking that if we had a thread which outlined other sources of track material, it would be helpful.
For example, I have seen kids toys of farm tractors and caterpillar building equipments in larger scales that have plastic link, metal link and vinyl track - some of these might be useful for certain tanks.
I'd love to eventually do a Somua or Char B, and a Valentine. Strikes me that there may be existing tracks from other corners of the toy/model market that could be used.
If anyone has any thoughts, jump in!
Shep
06-09-2009 | 02:07 PM
#2
Senior Member
RE: Let's share track sources...
Shep,
Why not cast them yourself? Using resin or white metal? I've seen guys do it on the German tank forum using legos. Seen guys here cast all kinds of things. Sure it can seem intimidating and a lot of work but look at what you've done so far! Certainly not outside the realm of your capabilities with a little practice.
Why not cast them yourself? Using resin or white metal? I've seen guys do it on the German tank forum using legos. Seen guys here cast all kinds of things. Sure it can seem intimidating and a lot of work but look at what you've done so far! Certainly not outside the realm of your capabilities with a little practice.
06-09-2009 | 03:05 PM
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RE: Let's share track sources...
I've thought about casting tracks myself, but I am REALLYintimidated by the materials. I don't want to melt any metals, and my workspace is pretty small (having four little kids and a wonderful, but protective, wife around doesn't help either.
I had considered alumilite to cast tracks, because it doesn't require melting at high temperatures. But I'm not sure if it will be strong enough to be used on a running model. Anyone have any experience with it?
Shep
I had considered alumilite to cast tracks, because it doesn't require melting at high temperatures. But I'm not sure if it will be strong enough to be used on a running model. Anyone have any experience with it?
Shep
06-09-2009 | 06:43 PM
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From: spring valley, CA
RE: Let's share track sources...
I got to thinking and did some calculations and if Idid not screw up 1/35 panther tracks should be almost perfect for both the panzer 38t and the Lws engineer vehicle. the width is perfect and the linl length is very close. If you use fruil metal workable tracks the series of vehicles should be fairly easy to do. I havent checked but I think the 1/35 th panther tracks would be a close fit for the panzer 2 also.
