1:35 '40 - French Tank Repair Crew No.2

French Tank Repair Crew No.2 in 1:35 scale from Dynamo-Models

The second numbered set of the French repair subject, whose name refers to the year 1940. Dynamo-Models builds this sub-range as a scene assembled from parts: alongside number two a first number and a combined package have been released, so you can fill the surroundings of a broken-down vehicle according to how large a diorama you are preparing. The subject is non-combat, with its weight in the work around the vehicles.

The real subject

Maintaining armored vehicles was a critical point for the French army in 1940. The vehicles were scattered among infantry formations, the workshop support stayed to the rear and the rapid advance of the front meant that a number of machines ended up not hit but laid up because of a breakdown or an empty tank. The Char B1 bis with its demanding powerplant was notorious in this respect. Repair parties therefore worked right in the field: the engine deck hatch removed, the tools laid out on a tarpaulin, drums and jerrycans at hand and improvised lifting of parts that would otherwise have needed a workshop.

Placing in a diorama

Two or more figures at one vehicle read best when each is doing something different while all of them relate to the same place - one works, another holds something or looks on. Avoid a symmetrical arrangement on either side of the model. A good guide is an assembly laid out dry that you walk around on all sides before you glue anything. If you paint the figures yourself, keep the French uniform of 1940 in muted tones and let the contrast come out on the leather, the tools and the dirty places; oil stains will do more for a scene than a varied palette.

Who it is for

• Builders of dioramas with French vehicles of 1940 in 1:35 scale
• Those who already have the first number of the range and want to extend the scene
• Modelers looking for a non-combat, workshop subject
• Collectors of the figure work of Dynamo-Models