1:350 AS 32A-32 tractor combo

The real subject

The tow tractor listed under the designation AS32A-32 serves for handling aircraft. It tows them between the parking area, the shop and the takeoff position, so that the machine does not have to move under its own power where that would be wasteful or dangerous. The set is worked up in 1:350 scale.

What it is suited to

The 1:350 scale is at home above all with ship models and the scenes around them. That is exactly where small ground equipment comes into its own: broad areas look empty without it, whereas a few vehicles placed around the deck give them back their scale and their action. It will serve just as well on an airfield diorama or as an addition to a display scene.

Working with tiny parts

At 1:350 scale these are very small parts, so have tweezers, a new blade and good light ready in advance. Separate the parts a little away from the edge and carefully sand what is left, so that their shape is not damaged. Wash and degrease the surface before painting. Choose the glue to match the material of the part and apply it in the smallest of quantities, preferably with the tip of a wire.

• Spray the base coat in a thin layer; a heavy one would flood the detail at this scale.
• Thin the paints more than usual and apply them in two passes rather than one.
• A dark glaze in the recesses gives a tiny part its readability back.
• Lighten the edges gently with a dry brush; it makes the vehicle stand out visually.
• Place the finished vehicle only once the painting of the surface it will stand on is done.

What has to be added

The model of the ship or other host, the paints and the glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise. The manufacturer gives the exact make-up of the set and the recommended procedure.