1:35 Schwerer Zugkraftwagen 18 t with 6 t Billstein-Crane, Sd.Kfz.9/1

Schwerer Zugkraftwagen 18 t Sd.Kfz.9/1 with a 6 t Bilstein crane 1:35 (Trumpeter)

An injection-molded plastic model of the German heavy half-track tractor Schwerer Zugkraftwagen 18 t Sd.Kfz.9/1 in 1:35 scale from Trumpeter. It is the variant fitted with a slewing 6-ton Bilstein crane on the load bed, of the kind that served workshop and recovery units. The kit offers a richly subdivided chassis, running gear with tracks and a detailed engine compartment.

The real subject

The Sd.Kfz.9, developed by FAMO, was the largest and heaviest half-track tractor that Germany built in series in the Second World War. It was powered by a gasoline twelve-cylinder Maybach engine of around 250 hp. The basic version served as a powerful tractor for heavy guns and for recovering stuck or damaged tanks; the 9/1 version with the Bilstein crane made it possible to lift heavy assemblies such as engines or complete guns in the field.

Building and painting tips

With military hardware it pays to assemble and paint the running gear and the engine compartment before you close the body up. Glue the plastic parts with a liquid modeling cement, and any photo-etched parts with super glue (cyanoacrylate). Apply a base (primer) before painting and spray with an airbrush in thin coats. You will bring the tracks and the chassis to life with a wash flowing into the recesses and with dust or mud pigments for realistic weathering.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of German Second World War half-track hardware in 1:35 scale
• Modelers interested in tractors, recovery and workshop vehicles
• Builders of dioramas on the theme of rear-area and repair units
• More experienced modelers who will appreciate an intricate chassis and a crane

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.