RSO ‘Raupenschlepper Ost’ Tractor
Track and Detail Set
1/35 Set No. 35004
Review by Terry Ashley
The
Track Links:
These have excellent detail but do have some fine resin film ‘flash’ on
each link that needs to be cleaned off by either waving a sharp x-acto #11
over them or as the instructions suggest using an old toothbrush to gently
scrub
the flash away. There is also some minor cleanup needed where the links were
snapped of the pouring blocks (not in the set) but is easily trimmed with a
sharp blade.
Again the big plus with these tracks is the simple click together assembly; although a particular technique is best with these as they have to intermesh with each other. Each link has a large and small pivot pin (see image Step 1), next slip the next track over this large pin (Step 2) and then click the link into place over the smaller pin (Step 3). As this small pin only just holds the links together any rough handling (especially twisting) will see them come apart but under normal circumstances they will stay in place just fine. Also don’t clip and unclip the links as you will wear away the sides of the locating hole for the small pin meaning it won’t hold. The rule is click the links together only once and handle with care.
The
Drive Sprockets:
The Italeri drive and idler sprockets have some serious shape problems
on the centre ribs and hubs and you are given new hubs for both to help add
some detail to the kit sprockets. The instructions outline clearly what needs
to be done to fit the new hubs and although some very minor surgery is required
on the idler sprocket hubs they do improve the look of the hubs but the rib
shape is another issue.
A new idler axle is also provided to replace the two part Italeri axel
eliminating the need to clean up the unsightly join on the Italeri axel.
The
Instructions:
A double sided A4 page is included which includes general instructions as well
as specific instructions for assembling the drive sprocket hubs and other parts.
Conclusion:
Another excellent and well detailed set of track links with additional parts
added for good measure.
The simplicity of assembly is again noteworthy and will greatly improve the
final appearance of the RSO kits, the tracks are available direct from:
WWII Productions
PO Box 100 Waratah
NSW 2298
Australia
Phone 61 2 4967
3205 (from inside Australia 02 4967 3205)
Fax 61 2 4967 3207 (from inside Australia 02 4967 3207)
Email: ww2prod@optusnet.com.au
Page Created 16 August 2002