One unit assembled with idler wheel just placed on it along with the side plate arm, both of which I left off to make painting easier.
The next picture shows both the left and right “A” suspension units, note that the track skids (circled) are mirrored.
For the other four suspension units I wrote their position on them to avoid confusion. Also, Meng have subtly different shaped holes/keys for each location, so it is very difficult to get it wrong.
The hull halves dry fitted – a fit so good that they just “clicked” together.
It was at this stage I deviated from the build sequence in the instructions. I was worried about the amount of clearance between the bottom of the lower hull and the tracks and as it turned out they were almost touching. This would make getting either the kit tracks or any aftermarket ones on very difficult if done at the stage Meng suggests.
So, I then attached the suspension arm units to the lower hull along with the other drivetrain units. Note the forward suspension unit “A” has the track skid at the rear.
All the assembled wheels ready for painting.
Next, I just attached parts C1 and C22 to the inside upper hull as per step eleven after first drilling the required holes out. The Upper hull was joined to the lower hull and masked ready for painting.
While the glue set and then the primer dried, I made a start on the turret.
The fit of the parts was IMHO Tamiya quality, and I was really enjoying the build.
Jack Black says
Page 3, 3rd photo. Surely the bogie main body is upside down?