http://www.FineScale.com 55When I went to attach the one-piece
link-and-length tracks, I found they were
too short using the number of parts called
for in the instructions. I tried adding two
extra links per side — T-34 track links are
paired so you can’t add just one — but the
tracks look sloppy. So, I used the vinyl
tracks instead.
Next, I painted the tools and ice cleats
and attached them to the hull. Warning:
The PE belts were fiddly. I cut off the
buckle pin and slid the belt through, which
made assembly easier, but it still took an
hour just to add these. The intake screen
consists of two parts, the screen, and the
frame. I glued the screen first, let the super
glue cure, then added the frame. I rolled
one edge of the screen over a paintbrush
handle to match the curve.
When working on the turret, be
aware that the ready rounds are molded
together in sets of three. In Step 21, be sure
to attach the gunner’s seat and sight
assembly to the turret after the gun’s
breech has been lowered into its cradle.
As with the bow, no racks or magazines
for the coaxial machine gun are provided.
The main gun barrel is molded in halves.
After painting, I used Tamiya weath-
ering pastel snow to add the patchy win-
try camouflage to the upper surfaces.
I spent 42 hours building Italeri’s
T-34/85. For anyone looking to build
their first tank with an interior, it would
be a good choice as it offers plenty of
detail and is a fairly straightforward build.- Tom Foti