280014/280015 Panther Ausf A/D/G Revisited - New Tooling 180123

[Rubicon Models]

Most of you already know we are redoing some of the moulds to improve the overall quality of each kit.  These changes might not be reflected on our current kits on the market until a later date, but we are continuing to do so as we see fit.

While working on the Panther tracks, we had found an interesting problem - which side is up and which side is down?

After searching on the net and reading reference books for more historical data and pictures; seems like both are true... any comments from our b&n counters?

[Pinky]

It's confusing isn't it.  Apparently it had left and right handed tracks.  Here's Panther undergoing trials which presumably has them on the right way.

[Rubicon Models]

Apparently it had left and right handed tracks.

Really? That explains all the confusing track photos. However, there were some with the same track patterns on both sides!

[Pinky]

Maybe if they were short of the right tracks they fitted them the other way around.

I'm not 100% sure of this, and will check other references. 

[Rubicon Models]

From several sources, there were 4 different track designs (or patterns) being used by the Panther throughout Ausf D, A, and then G.  Might be a mix of track links for left and right side during field repairs.  Going to dig into this deeper!

[tyroflyer]

I know there were numerous different tracks on earlier panzers. There is an excellent u tube video by Adam Mann about that subject. Wouldn't surprise me if Panther tracks also varied. In any event it shows Rubicon's attention to detail we have come to expect.

[ripley]

Pzr III and IV had left and right handed track as well . IRC its something to do with a inset for the head of the track pin on one side and a recess for the locking nut on the other side . Some early  Tiger I s had the same style track on both sides , you can see the traction cleats on the track links , one side v and the other side ^. They should have developed tracks like the Sherman , they fit either side and with all other M3 / M4 style track links ( not the E8 of course , way different ) The T-34 never even had locking nuts , the pins went in from the inside and a wedge shaped device by the drive sprocket pushed the head  loose pin back flush  .

[Pinky]

From several sources, there were 4 different track designs (or patterns) being used by the Panther throughout Ausf D, A, and then G.  Might be a mix of track links for left and right side during field repairs.  Going to dig into this deeper!

I could only find references to 2 different types; during production they added the additional 'chevrons' to improve traction.  There were also ice cleats that could be attached.

While you're looking at the Panther, could you tweak the fit of the engine deck where it meets the rear hull wall?  There is a gap there which is hard to avoid.  It'd also be good if you could improve the way the nose assembles, so that the interlocking armour effect is better defined.  And maybe refine the gun barrel, so it's a bit thicker and properly circular.  There are a few other points, which would improve the accuracy of the Ausf D in particular. 

[Rubicon Models]

While you're looking at the Panther, could you tweak the fit of the engine deck where it meets the rear hull wall?  There is a gap there which is hard to avoid.  It'd also be good if you could improve the way the nose assembles, so that the interlocking armour effect is better defined.  And maybe refine the gun barrel, so it's a bit thicker and properly circular.  There are a few other points, which would improve the accuracy of the Ausf D in particular. 

We are not going to redo the Panther at this point, just minor tweak to the tracks.  If we are to make changes as you suggested, the alternations are worth redoing a new tank (or moulds).


This is the updated track links:


Enjoy!

[Rubicon Models]

Besides changes made to the Panther track links, we are adding various rear exhaust options too!
Hope you like them all! 



Enjoy!

[Ballardian]

 Very nice, I like the choice of Flamvernichters - & putting individual track waffle detail on, even if it's only the front makes the world of difference.

[ripley]

The Panther exhausts could be a separate detail kit all on their own  . Some Panthers had the extra twin pipes on the right exhaust , here's a picture of the Munster Panther A taken from the Squadron /Signal book . No idea how many had this set up

Really like the up dated details your planning on adding when you re tool the kit .

[Rubicon Models]

The "tail" of three panthers...



Enjoy!

[Pinky]

Nice stuff.  But consider whether it's worth putting this much effort into this aspect of the kit when there are other (relatively minor) inaccuracies that are arguably more in need of attention.  Are these going to be on an extra sprue or are you revising an existing sprue?  Cos the gun barrel is on the same sprue as the tracks...

[Rubicon Models]

Nice stuff.  But consider whether it's worth putting this much effort into this aspect of the kit when there are other (relatively minor) inaccuracies that are arguably more in need of attention.  Are these going to be on an extra sprue or are you revising an existing sprue?  Cos the gun barrel is on the same sprue as the tracks...

@Pinky - What do you think?  The truth is out there...