garzonh, Eric,Stik , and M.Brindos - thanks very much guys.
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The first photo was done by placing a close cropped picture of the vehicle over a suitable desert landscape found by google image searches. Before combining the two layers, a paint brush tool was used to add some dust clouds and shadows. The tool setting is quite large (think in terms of an airbrush with a wide spray area). Key is to have the tool setting at about 75% transparent and 100% feathered edge. This allows a gradual buildup in density, and avoids a hard edge.
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The kit tracks are link and length. They aren't that bad, but I found out, after already assembled, that the instructions have you mount them in reverse. Instead of trying to rip them apart, I tried some resin ones from IMA. I used about 5 1/2 lenths per side, and super glued them all together befor dipping them in boiling water. Eventually got them wrapped around the provided acrylic templates.
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The Vulcan kit is actually quite nice. The main problem is the tracks, as mentioned above. Also they don't provide enough links to create any sag, which isn't a big deal on this desert version as you can hide any resulting gap behind the sand shields. There is also no interior detail other than the driver's seat. Oh yes, the boggie assembly is a bit of chore with the tiny springs. Much easier to use some spare brass rod of much longer length than that provided in the kit. Once assembled, simply snip the ends to the correct length.
regards,
Jack