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Voyager Models
WWII German Pz.Sfl.Ivb 10.5cm le.FH.18/1 Fenders
Voyager Model 1:35 Set #PE35293 for Dragon kit #6475
Review by Jenny Croft

Dragon
Introduction:

This Voyager set is one of four sets specifically designed for the Dragon kit 6475 of the Pz.Sfl.Ivb 10.5cm le.FH.18/1. This is the “Fender” set which replaces the kit fenders;

The other sets for this vehicle are the Basic set, the Barrel & Mantlet set and the ammunition stowage set. The fender set contains one large and two small generic nut and bolt etched frets, a piece of 1mm plastic rod, a piece of .4mm brass rod, a piece of .3mm steel wire for hinges & four small springs

The Update Set:

The  Pz.Sfl.Ivb 10.5cm le.FH.18/1 was an unusual vehicle, built on a shortened Panzer IV chassis with only three bogies per side, nineteen of them were built and saw action on the Eastern Front. The shortened structure of this vehicle means also that they had a unique fender. 

The big advantage of photo etched brass for fenders is not only the scale thickness but being able to replicate scale construction of the real thing.

Each fender is made of a photo etched frame which will need to be bent with a good etched bending tool as each side is 13.5cm long and needs a fold that runs this length. Onto this frame is fitted a piece of delicate non slip etch which has its real marvel comes from the reverse side also having the negative pattern etched into the underside. The underside has a huge amount of nuts to be added which will require a little patience and a brace on the front underside.

Assembly now turns to the topside of the fenders where three fore supports are added along with the bolt heads which match the nuts from the underside, while the method may seem arduous; the ability to omit nuts and bolts makes battle damage more authentic.

Both front and rear mud guards are hinged and can be made to function but for stability they will be more solid assemblies to be glued in position. Each guard is fitted with a spring which is fitted from fender to guard.

Rear guards have reflectors added and a few supports are added from the front fender to the hull front & the construction is complete.

Etched and other parts in the Voyager set
Voyager Models
Reverse side if the fenders
Voyager Models
Voyager Models
Instructions
Voyager Voyager

Conclusion:

The Voyager set gives a highly accurate set of fenders, the set is constructed with the same elements as the original, if you are after realistic battle damage which requires any deconstruction of the fender then this is where the set really comes into its own.

Highly recommended.


Thanks to Voyager Models for the review set.

Jenny runs her own Forum Website Tanks & Things, check it out




Page created July 15, 2009