SKP Model
Workable tracks for Cromwell
SKP Model 1:35 Scale Kit No. SKP 104
Review by Terry Ashley

Cromwell
The Kit:
SKP Model have released this set of workable track links in conjunction with their new kit of the Cromwell Mk.IV CS (kit # SKP 099) but could also be used with any of the other Cromwell kits available from Accurate Armour or Tamiya.

This set differs from previous SKP track sets in using the separate pin method of assembly rather than being clip together and includes chocolate coloured resin links in one zip lock bad and another bag with the small pins. Also included is a 0.5mm drill bit to drill out the pin holes in each link prior to assembly.

Track links, pins and drill bit
SKP Model

Detail on the links is nicely done on the cast link faces and guide horns as well as on the inside faces are perfectly smooth without any blemishes.

The only cleanup required on the links is to trim the remnants of the casting blocks that have already been removed from the links, some of the pins need the ends trimmed as some fine resin remains from the casting process.

Before assembling the links you need to drill out the holes for the pins and this does take a bit of extra time, but there are central indentations for the drill bit to help drilling the holes centrally in each link. SKP include the 0.5mm drill bit to drill the holes which is a nice inclusion and you can add this to the tool box after assembling the tracks.

Use drill bit to align holes prior to fitting pins
SKP Model

After drilling the holes required assembly is quite straightforward by fitting two links together and inserting the pins to secure the links, the pins heads also act as the actual track pin heads to provide additional detail.

I found it advisable to insert the drill bit as you join the links to ensure the holes lined up perfectly as the pins aren’t strong enough to use any excessive force when pushed into place.

Track assembly
SKP Model

The track runs assemble quite quickly and easily as well as articulate freely and are also very robust after assembly due to the method of assembly, a small dab cyanoacrylate on each pin head will hold the pin securely in place. 

As the track runs are assembled they take on a distinct curve but this will straighten out as you fit them to the target kit and so you shouldn’t be concerned with this as you go.

Assembled track run, curve will straighten out when fitted to the target kit.
SKP Model

The tracks fitted perfectly to the Tamiya Cromwell-Centaur kit drive sprockets s as well as to SKP’s own Cromwell drive sprockets for quick and easy replacements. An interesting side note, The Tamiya Cromwell kit I used for the purpose was built many years ago and when I went to remove the kit vinyl tracks they just disintegrated completely.

Track fitted to a Tamiya Centaur built more years ago than I care to remember.
SKP ModelSKP ModelSKP Model
Track fitted to the new SKP Model Cromwell Mk VI CS (kit #SKP 099)
SKP ModelSKP ModelSKP Model

Conclusion:
This is a nicely cast and detailed set of Cromwell tracks with minimal actual cleanup but you need to drill out all the pin holes in the links which takes a little time and the inclusion of the drill bit for this purpose by SKP is welcomed.

The assembled tracks are very robust and fit perfectly to the available Cromwell-Centaur kits to add extra detail to the finished kits.

Rating 8.5/10

Thanks to SKP Model for the review kit.



Page created October 25, 2010



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