Hi guys,
Marc, Chris, and Stephen; thanks for the interest, and encouragement!
detailfreak; yes, it looks like I'll be able to add considerably to my parts box, although I don't think it's as much as some of their other kits like the up-armoured Ausf. D that you just finished up.
Scott; I look forward to reading your review of this kit. I always enjoy your reviews on armourama!
I have already discovered that the instructions aren't very clear in some respects. (gee.....Dragon instructions that aren't clear? No way!) They show parts B1, and B3 being assembled, with an arrow VAGUELY pointing to were they should go. Luckily, I just got home and found a Verlinden book on the Jp IV that I won on ebay waiting for me. Apparently, the part is some kind of skid-plate, that attaches to the side of the rear hull to keep the track aligned. I don't think I would've found this out from the kit instructions!
Oops, upon further review of the instructions, it shows the parts as being optional, but it still doesn't show where they mount.
I tend to jump around during construction, so if it seems like I'm not following the instructions, I am......just not the order they were written!
Today I managed to assemble the rear panel with exhausts, and idler mounts, and tow hitch. I also added the fuel filler ports along the left side, and attached the angled bow plate, and final drive housings. For as little apparent work that I did, there sure were a LOT of parts! I've been spoiled lately with Tamiya kits!
Anyway, the detailing and fit is excellent! Aside from the glitch in the instructions, so far I'm very impressed. Here's a few pics of today's efforts.
Sorry about the blurriness of the pics.......I'm actually building this at my job, so I was sneaking pics! Tomorrow, I'll set up my portable tri-pod, and take better pics during my breaks.
Hope you like the pics.
Nate