1:35 FUEL CAP SET FOR M48 FAMILY, FOR 2 TANKS

Fuel tank caps for the M48 family 1:35, for two vehicles (ELEFANT)

This item is not a kit of a tank, but a small accessory set of castings. It replaces the filler caps of the fuel tanks at the rear of vehicles of the M48 family and, according to the name on the package, is enough for two vehicles. On the real equipment the caps are complex in shape, with latches, hinges and surrounding rims, and that is exactly what tends to be simplified in injection-molded plastic. On the upper surface of the rear deck, meanwhile, this is a place that is in view practically all the time.

The real subject

The M48 Patton is an American tank developed in the first half of the 1950s, which became one of the most widespread Western tanks of its day. It went through a number of versions, from gasoline-engined forms to diesel modernizations, and was exported to many armies. Its components are also the basis of the M88 recovery vehicle and of a number of other machines, so features of the M48 family appear across several types of equipment.

Building and painting tips

The parts are very small, so cut them off in a bowl or over a surface, so that they do not fly off. Wash the castings in warm soapy water and sand the casting remains carefully, protecting your airways while sanding. It is glued with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue). The original plastic caps have to be sanded off the model and the surface leveled. After painting, a dark wash in the joints around the rim helps, as does fine wear in metallic paint on the edges, since that is where the finish rubs away first on the real equipment.

Who the set is for

• Builders of models of the M48 family in 1:35 scale.
• Modelers who detail the upper surfaces of the hull.
• Builders of two vehicles at once; the set is enough for both.
• Those who have experience of working with small castings.

The accessory is supplied unassembled and unpainted. The kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.