Converting Verlinden 1:15 to rc ??? any ideas

There has been a lot of rumors flying about that Backyard Armor has a full-function Panther in the works. They have a lot of new product coming out for all of the Tamiya and now the Bandai tanks and I can't see them not doing a Panther in the future. Also if you are looking to buy a Tamiya kit their prices are pretty good (www.backyardarmor.com). The German company you were asking about is at www.rcpanzer.de Their kit goes for 1600 Euros ($2000.00 US!) and still needs the Tamiya electronics on top of that...so figure about $2600.00 total! Yikes...

Goodluck!

Yeah, I remember that site. The Pather was 1/6 and made of machined Aluminum and resin. Looked fantastic but I think it was priced about the same as a Toyota.

There may be Larry, seems I remember something about it.
There is a Russian(?) company that does large scale armor too.
I know there is a 1/6 R/C model from the UK but it is really expensive.

QUOTE: Originally posted by claymore68 I think I would build the Tamiya Tiger first to get an understanding of how these beasts are built and then use the Verlinden hull (or other plans) to make a copy suitable for RC. As there is no 1/16 Panther (R/C) on the horizon this may be the only way if you want a Panther.

I think there is one, isn't there? A smaller company, in Germany I think, makes a very highly detailed r/c Panther that's got all,or at least most, of the Tamiya bells and whistles. Anyone recall the manufacturer? I think the url was posted here a few months ago. Very cool, but price tag in the stratosphere.

I think I would build the Tamiya Tiger first to get an understanding of how these beasts are built and then use the Verlinden hull (or other plans) to make a copy suitable for RC.
As there is no 1/16 Panther (R/C) on the horizon this may be the only way if you want a Panther.

Tamiya it is then. Thanks for the advice

If you get a chance to look closely at the Tamiya kits, you'll see a lot of thought and engineering went into it. The suspensions on both the Tiger and the M4 behave realistically.
It would be a little more involved than say motorizing a Kubel, not to mention trying to create Panther tracks that would function.
I'm sure it can be done, with a huge effort and probable expense. Unless you are really experienced with RC, I'd try Tamiyas first, at least you would know what you're up against.
Years ago I used to build motorized eye systems for puppets and there are a lot of companies from who you could get any gear or part you want. Keep in mind Tamiya's Multi function units are top notch: power requirements and ratios, et al, have already been worked out.
You can always build a Tamiya and then figure a way to build a Panther with the units afterwards.

QUOTE: Originally posted by johnmshaw In the market for a BIG tank , probably foing for the Tamiya 1:16 Tiger I full option rc But the Verlinden Panther 1:15 looks nice , has anyone convewrted one of these to rc, and what would be needed/involved. Thanks Mark

To be honest, I think that's a project comparable in scope to building the Pyramids. The Verlinden 120mm kits are resin and meant for display only.

It would probably take less effort to actually buy a real M1A1 tank and drive it around (the Pentagon is putting a bunch up for sale, apparently).