I figure it's time to show some of my build progress instead of just commenting on the great builds that other members publish . Overall It has been slower than I would like but the responsibilities that are inherent in one's life tend to prevail. I will try to keep the duration between updates to a minimum . For the record this is my first build in 18 yrs. Hope you enjoy.
I prefer not to build OOB so when ever I can I try to make improvements ( which is the fun part). Using Prime Portal's T34/76 walk around I started with the turret. I felt the casting seam on the front needed more emphasis . On the left is the kit's , modified on the right.
Added missing welds around vision ports
Once assembled I continued with adding weld beads were necessary . Also added the rough cast texture, shaved off the the molded on vision port protectors and replaced them with new ones of thin aluminum sheet stock. The kit's PT-4-7 periscope is nothing more than a protrusion so I cut off where it's protective cover would be hinged so I could have it in the open position.The assembly seam in the front is sealed with super glue.
The kit's barrel didn't look accurate so I made a new one from K&S aluminum tubing. Not sure if it can be seen but I added rough texture (left from cutting torches and grinders ?) to the outer edges of the mantlet and recuperator housing. The inside of the periscope tower was also recessed to accommodate the optics.
Here's how the turret currently looks with the PT-4-7 periscope done.
And a few other things
Replaced the kit's exhaust outlets with ones made from K&S aluminum tubing
Drilled out the the drive and idler wheels. Kits supplied on left, drilled on the right.
I plan on replacing the kit's front and rear fenders so far I have almost completed the front.
Shaved off the equipment tie downs and made new ones from very fine copper wire.
I also made the cooling intake louvers . They turned out on the large side so I might change them
That it for now.Thanks for looking .