1:35 Engine grill screen T34

Metal screens for the engine deck of the T-34

The Soviet T-34 medium tank has prominent grilles at the rear above the radiators, which kits usually handle with mere suggested relief. Photo-etched metal swaps them for a part whose holes are genuinely open. The change is noticeable above all on models placed so that the deck is clearly visible.

The tank that changed the rules

The combination of sloped armor, wide tracks and a powerful diesel engine made the T-34 an unpleasant surprise in 1941. The vehicle could be built in great numbers even in plants hastily moved beyond the Urals, which proved more important than the refinement of the workshop finish. The engine deck changed in detail during the war, but the basic layout of the cooling openings was retained.

Practical advice

Before setting the metal in, check whether the deck of your kit matches the production period you have chosen. Glue the metal on only after you have darkened the plastic beneath it, otherwise the space under the holes will shine through awkwardly. Make the bend in a single stroke, as repeated straightening cracks the part. A deposit of dust and small debris suits at the end, because it was exactly here that leaves and straw settled on the real vehicles.

For which builds

• for models of the T-34 built with an emphasis on a faithful rear end
• for dioramas where the vehicle is seen from above
• for completing older moldings with a coarse surface
• for modelers who want to try working with photo-etch

You will not find the model of the tank or paints here.