ICM 1/35 Henschel 33D1 Kfz.72 Radio Comms Truck UPDATE

Post by **Nev** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 1:54 am

This will be my first ever group build so really excited to be taking part! I have decided to model a Henschel Type 33 Radio Communication truck Using the following kit:

ICM 1/35 Henschel 33D1 Kfz.72 Radio Communication Truck.

I have heard only good things about ICM kits, they tend to do a lot of unusual wheeled vehicles, so I thought they would be ideal starting point for this group build.

The Kfz.72 Struck me as a great model to get stuck into. Lots of wood panel work but also some interesting metal, including a detailed engine and cabin to show off!
Given the time span, I doubt I'll be able to detail the radio operators interior in time! But I intend to complete this build so this detailing could be added at a later date... Time will tell!

So without further ado some history on the Henschel and the 33D1 Kfz.72. This is collected from online sources that I have researched by people that know far more about this subject than myself:

Henschel Type 33

In the course of the first program for motorising the Reichswehr from 1926, development of three-axled cross-country lorries with a payload of 3 tons was demanded besides others. Three companies were involved in the development: Büssing, Henschel and Krupp. The first Henschel model - the Henschel type 33 B 1 - was delivered in 1928. The civilian version of this model had single tyres on all axles and disc rims. The vehicles delivered to the Reichswehr had spoke rims with three spokes and dual tyres on the rear axles. In relation, a three-axle omnibus chassis was also developed in 1928 - the Henschel type 34 D 3. In 1929, the Henschel type 33 D 1 with the stronger D engine entered serial production. The Reichswehr procured only small numbers of this type. Compared to the Henschel type 33 B 1, the Henschel type 33 D 1 had a longer engine bonnet. Beginning in 1933, the Henschel type 33 D 2 was manufactured in small numbers. This version had a lengthened wheelbase and a payload of 4-5 tons. Most probably, this was only a civilian model. Typical for these early models was the fact, that the two rear axles were propelled by separate cardan shafts.

A widely improved version of the Henschel type 33 D 1 was manufactured beginning in 1934. The rear axles were now propelled by only one cardan shaft with an additional short cardan shaft between the rear axles. The wheelbase between the first and second axle was increased from 3400 to 3750 mm. The performance characteristics were not changed by these improvements. Simplex rims with six spokes were introduced with this model, too. Beginning in 1937, the Henschel type 33 G 1 propelled by a diesel engine was made besides the Henschel type 33 D 1. Both models were manufactured until 1943. Furthermore, the Henschel type 33 FA 1 was manufactured from 1936 to 1942. This chassis was exclusively used for the production of Tankspritze 2,5 (Kfz. 343). It was propelled by the stronger Henschel type F engine with a power of 120 HP.
Magirus had to manufacture the Henschel type 33 G 1 under license beginning in 1937. The Magirus type 33 G 1 was manufactured from 1937 to 1941. This model had a 100 HP diesel engine. This engine had a Henschel crankcase and Deutz cylinders, cans and pistons Therefore, this engines had the same connections like the Henschel type G diesel engine. From 1939 to 1941, the Magirus type 33 H was made. This model was propelled by a 125 HP Deutz diesel engine. No additional data about the Magirus type 33 H could be found. Probably, this chassis with the stronger engine was used for the Tankspritze 2,5 (Kfz. 343).
The Henschel type 33 was chosen as a first standard type by the Wehrmacht. At least, 11,234 vehicles of the subtypes D 1, G 1 and FA 1 were made from 1934 to 1943 (there could be some more because the available chassis number list has some gaps). Until 1934, about 400 vehicles were made. Magirus manufactured 3,870 vehicles from 1937 to 1941. No other manufacturer in this vehicle class reached such high production figures. Therefore, many different special variants of the Henschel type 33 can be found.

Overall, the Henschel type 33 was a sturdy and solid development. Later, the insufficient cross-country mobility caused by the dual rear tyres and the small payload of 3 tons compared to the deadweight was criticised. In fairness it must be said, that the famous American 2.5 ton lorries from GMC and Studebaker had also dual tyres on the rear axles and a payload less than the half of the deadweight. In addition, not all of these vehicles had all wheel drive. Compared to these American opponents, the 13 year older development Henschel type 33 performs absolutely positive.

Funkbetriebskraftwagen (Kfz. 72)

The Funkbetriebskraftwagen - radio operating motor vehicle - (Kfz. 72) mit Fahrgestell des m. gl. Lkw. (o) - with chassis of the middle commercial cross-country lorry - had two Kurbelmaste - extendable radio masts - 9 m or 10 m at the rear side of the box body. Two Auffahrbohlen - supporting planks - were mounted on the left side of the box body.

The right side of the Fu.Betr.Kw. (Kfz. 72). There, the eight rods of the 10 m Steckmast - radio mast - were fitted in special mountings.

I will get Box and sprue shots up after the weekend as this model is currently en-route to my house fingers crossed it comes or this is all for nothing

Really looking forward to getting into this one

Post by **UKguyInUSA** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 1:56 am

That's a cool looking truck...I like that greyish-blue color in the photos.

Post by **Nev** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 10:03 am

UKguyInUSA wrote:That's a cool looking truck...I like that greyish-blue color in the photos.

Thanks mate the box version apparently comes in 2 version which is early German grey so at least I won't have to worry about choosing a camo scheme

Post by **JayCub** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 11:01 am

Looks a really interesting build and great photographs with interesting stowage, and I like the last photograph with the outer tyre removed interesting setup to how it is held in place
Tom

Post by **trekfanj** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 5:31 pm

Great choice, Nev!

Post by **Yevgeny** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 5:34 pm

Great looking track.
Interested to see how it will come together. Considering couple of kits from this maker in the future.

Post by **Tiger131** » Sat Oct 18, 2014 5:34 pm

oh yes really!!!!!

wanted this kit so really looking forward to seeing this come along

Post by **Unit53** » Sun Oct 19, 2014 10:44 am

Really liking the look of this SIG and another very different kit. Had a look in the stash yesterday but apart from a LAV all my other wheeled vehicles have only four wheels. Think I will be keeping my eyes open at Telford to see what I can find as I think this would be a great build to get involved with over the Christmas break.

Good luck with the build, really liking the look of this truck.

Martin

Post by **fly1ngdutchm4n** » Sun Oct 19, 2014 11:45 am

Great vehicle and very nice history!
Good luck building mate

Post by **Nev** » Sun Oct 19, 2014 12:17 pm

Thanks Guys for all your support. I am awaiting the kit as I write. I was told a slight delay so will be behind about a week, but I reckon I can catch-up

Martin see if you can find some more ICM kits at Telford. They do quite a few multi wheeled models that looked quite interesting.

Glad this build will prove interesting for you, just hope I can do it justice

Nev

Post by **hansolo** » Tue Oct 21, 2014 6:08 am

This is a beautiful truck!
Looking forward to it.

cheers

Post by **Nev** » Tue Oct 21, 2014 8:09 am

Thanks Han! Must admit looking forward to getting stuck in

Post by **hansolo** » Tue Oct 21, 2014 8:43 am

Nev wrote:Thanks Han! Must admit looking forward to getting stuck in

Enjoy!

Post by **Russ72** » Sun Oct 26, 2014 12:30 am

Nice kit choice Nev. Lots of scope. Well done.

Post by **kiwigav** » Sun Oct 26, 2014 7:32 pm

Best of luck on build, great choice mate

Post by **Deacon** » Tue Oct 28, 2014 12:09 pm

Looking forward to watching this come together.

Post by **wappynutter** » Tue Oct 28, 2014 2:42 pm

Excellent Nev.... Eyed this kit up many, many times on Ebay but never purchased...
Maybe after watching you build yours i may be inspired and click the "Buy Now" button.. lol...
All the best

Post by **Nev** » Tue Oct 28, 2014 6:26 pm

Thanks Guys should be soon I hope! Wappynutter will let you know if it's any good

Got a delivery eta of a couple of days from Wonderland hobbies so should get box and sprue shots up by the weekend!

I need to get cracking everyone else are flying away from me!!!

Post by **AlkaSeltzer** » Wed Oct 29, 2014 7:51 pm

Wow I like that kit and I know it will be great looking when done. Please post many pictures as I know ICM kits are difficult...at least for me.

Post by **Nev** » Fri Nov 07, 2014 2:32 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 1 Unboxing & Sprue shots:

Finally the Kit came this morning so I now able to start this build!

Initial thoughts on the Kit are that it is very well made. Lots of intricate parts to contend with. But very little clean-up and next to no flash!

My only quibble is that the sprues came in a single bag. So some of the frames could have become warped! But luckily this one came out ok with no damaged parts.

You can see below the Sprues with a slight bend!!

And as has been said before on ICM kits some of the sprue gates are a tad big, so will have to be extra careful when removing parts.

Instructions:

Standard truck build I guess... I will construct the Chassis first, then the cab and radio room go on last.

I might be able to get away with painting the 3 main areas separately, this might then involve a cunning plan using magnets.

The instructions Seem pretty straight forward. Some parts look intricate so I will need to double check things, before I get the glue out...

The Sprues:

Clear parts look good but not sure about the Decals! I think the only part of the kit I won't be using.

So far it looks like a really nice kit and I'm going to enjoy building this model!
Next update will see me tackling the chassis and Suspensions... So wish me luck!

Nev

Post by **wappynutter** » Fri Nov 07, 2014 2:57 pm

Yay!!!!

Looking forward to seeing how this kit/build pans out Nev...
...and Magnets???? Cool......

Always fancied this obscure kit but never had the guts to waste money on something out of my comfort zone..
Good luck, Happy Modelling..

Post by **Nev** » Fri Nov 07, 2014 3:56 pm

Cheers Andy

Post by **JayCub** » Fri Nov 07, 2014 4:25 pm

Lots of small intricate parts, im looking forward to this build already, it will be a great build
Tom

Post by **Russ72** » Mon Nov 10, 2014 9:49 pm

Nice one Nev. The "Cunning Plan" sounds like a goer.

Post by **Nev** » Wed Nov 12, 2014 11:09 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 2 Engine

Okies quick update. Boy this is pushing me! The parts are really fine and I'm constantly aware of breaking them as I remove from the sprues. Luckily my Xurons are holding up and nothing broken yet!

Here is a shot of the Sprues drying out. Don't think my wife was too impressed with me for using her dryer

The last few nights I have been steadily working on the Engine block. The plans are a little iffy in parts placements, so if you are building one of these, I would do a few dry runs before glueing.

I have finished the engine block tonight and primed with Alcad grey primer which is the Bees Knees

It's a fun challenging build that is certainly keeping me on my toes! Next up is the Chassis and suspension.

Just wanted to say thanks so far for all your support guys

Post by **Tiger131** » Thu Nov 13, 2014 5:08 pm

nice washing...

Post by **trekfanj** » Sat Nov 15, 2014 10:22 am

Great start, Nev!

I really gotta get with it on my entry; school's keeping me busy and everyone's leaving me in their 6-wheeled dust!

Post by **Nev** » Sat Nov 15, 2014 12:08 pm

Thanks mates.

Don't worry trekfanj this is going to take me some time. Providing I have any kit left! The parts are so fine in places they just disintegrate with the glue

I am going to have to scratch build some of the more delicate parts in etch and styrene...

Post by **Nev** » Sat Nov 15, 2014 4:32 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 2.1 Chassis

Ok lower Chassis done. Bit of a pig to get straight next time I will use a jig to keep it all square.

My biggest problem so far with the kit is the rediculous size of some of the plastic parts. They tend to break up on contact with the smallest amount of glue!! I will now have to custom make a few parts because of this issue. Namely the number plate and starting handle. these are made way too fine and Photo etch would have been so much better!

Also they ask to put parts on the struts way too early in the build stage! When really they should go on last! Breaking seems to be a common occurrence when Handling the model !

Rant over still fun but When I build the next one I will do the chassis first without the extra dodads to make it easier to keep square and to stop all the bits falling off!!

Next up Drive shaft and Suspension...

Post by **Yevgeny** » Sun Nov 16, 2014 8:39 pm

Nev wrote:

This is great

Post by **Nev** » Mon Nov 17, 2014 3:46 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 3 Exhusting!!!

Just a quickie I tried working on the exhust pipes but soon realised that they are a piece of junk!

After spending a good few hours sticking it together!! Yes it came in multiple parts

I was looking at it thinking this is wrong. Maybe I have stuck it together back to front? But after checking and looking at the tabs, which are supposed to guide the way it goes together! I soon realised that it would not fit! So I cut it up and worked a new pipe in wire... Job done!

If you are building this kit just watch the exhust pipe I think in hindsight throw the plans out and fit it direct to the model and work your way along. Or make a new one in wire...

Post by **alextheblue** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 11:22 am

Nice fix with the exhaust Nev, your one is definitely an improvement over the kit one!

Post by **Nev** » Tue Nov 18, 2014 7:18 pm

alextheblue wrote:Nice fix with the exhaust Nev, your one is definitely an improvement over the kit one!

Cheers mate this one sure is testing me!!!

Post by **Tiger131** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 10:53 pm

Nice replacement gotta love a little scratch building

Post by **Yevgeny** » Wed Nov 19, 2014 11:09 pm

Exhaust pipe looks great! Well done

Post by **trekfanj** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 9:53 pm

Great job with the exhaust pipe, Nev!

I used the kit's pipe on mine; it came out OK but it really bugs me that the tailpipe isn't hollowed out. I'm a little hesitant to drill it out, though.

Post by **martin57** » Thu Nov 20, 2014 10:44 pm

thats a nice looking kit , shame about the small parts breaking up .
all the best with the rest of it .

Post by **Nev** » Fri Nov 21, 2014 5:09 pm

Cheers for the support Gents

Post by **Nev** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 8:28 am

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 4 Chassis

Finished the chassis engine block and suspension. I must say this has been the most difficult part to this build

I have had to do a hell of a lot of scratch building which has slowed me down. I think the suspension part took the best part of 4 days!

I still have to attach the break line cables which I have made from copper wire. They will go through the middle and up into the rear suspension.

Really hoping the rest gets quicker from here on now...

Cheers for your support

Post by **Yevgeny** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 10:32 am

Looks very good!
First primer coat makes such a difference. Always looks rendered to me

Post by **gustavlekstal** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 5:45 pm

What are your thoughts on the continuous work?
Paint engine? Camo scheme? Thoughts on the paintwork?
Got to pick the mind of a craftsman like you. Looks great

Post by **Nev** » Sat Nov 29, 2014 11:44 pm

You're very kind don't feel like one at the moment.

My thinking is it is early war so the predominant colour will be a dark german grey on the chassis. working through the greys on the woodwork with plenty of dust effects on the lower parts.

The engine will be a mix of dark greys and gloss blacks. (If anyone has a more definite idea then greatly appreciated).

The cab will be a mix of grey and that funny cream colour you get in german vehicles.

Not the most striking of colour schemes but hopefully should be much simpler to do than the build itself

Post by **Russ72** » Tue Dec 02, 2014 8:55 am

Nice stuff Nev. Keep it up mate.

Post by **UKguyInUSA** » Fri Dec 05, 2014 10:50 pm

Looking good so far Nev, and nice scratch building too.

Post by **Nev** » Mon Dec 22, 2014 7:11 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 5 Cabs all finished

All build work done. Currently undercoating in the spray booth.

I've built some parts to the interior but as I wanted to add a Resin detail set at a later date, I will keep it simple.

Made a floor from Styrene Sheet. I will add The resin detail set at a later date.
Windows masked with masking fluid inside and out. Will paint the insides first then work outwards.

This is where the cunning plan comes in with magnets. I need to access the interior at a later date. So instead of glue I will attach the roof with magnets

I will also probably attach the cabs to the chassis this way as it makes painting easier.

Final bit built the step plate for the rear.

Next update painting and finish I hope.

Post by **Nev** » Tue Dec 23, 2014 10:55 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Update 6 Primer coats

All Parts now masked & primed, ready for the spray booth.

Post by **Nev** » Sun Dec 28, 2014 12:56 pm

I've just finished the basecoat and come up against anothr problem! I used a Klear coat on the windows. and thought I was being clever used masking fluid.

I have just found out both are ammonia based

I now have to remove them all and strip back again to the clear plastic!!!

This build is fighting me all the way

Post by **trekfanj** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 6:26 pm

Don't feel too bad, I've hit a snag of my own. My truck comes with a canvas cover, and when I did a test fit, it's too big for the cab!

So, I've been trying to figure out how to scratchbuild a closed canvas cover (the kit only offers an extended one) but can't really decide on a material that would work; so far, I'm leaning towards the tissue/white glue plan.

Keep at it, there's still time!

Post by **Nev** » Tue Dec 30, 2014 6:37 pm

Thanks dude

I won't let it beat me!

I hear tracing paper and white glue can make a good canvas substitute maybe try it out on some foam blocks first?

Post by **Nev** » Thu Jan 01, 2015 11:37 pm

6 Wheel or more SIG

Getting there!

Base weathered ready for the shell. I used the hairspray technique for the first time ever! leaning lots with this build.

Started to add dust and mud to the underside. Will finish this off when get the wheels on and will airbrush dust affects to the whole chassis.

Feel like I'm finally getting on top of this build with only 1 Week to go! Wish me luck