Carl- Minenraumer? AHHH! That's one of few things we will probably not see built for this GB. I'd love to build one if there was a kit. Thanks for the free lesson!
Chazzer- You going to IMPS East? You lucky b@stard! I always wanted to go since most of friends here go there. Maybe one day I will... have fun and be sure to take pictures for us.
Wish I can help you with the magic track count. I used MK tracks for my Tamiya StuG. Instructions said 93 but I added two or three more for more shag.
Sorry I missed your question about using Vallejo paint. I haven't tried it especially on armors as I only use it for figures painting. But I am planning to switch to Vallejo and LifeColor completely one day. If you feel that German Panzer from Vallejo is too dark, you can always add a drop of buff or sand to lighten it up during post-shading if you are not satisfied.