Just one of the things I really like about Hobby Link’s 3D printed kits is the amazing detail that 3D printing has. The other is a low parts count.
Another cool thing is that all the large parts like the engine block, fuel tank, hydraulic tank, Hyster PTO winch assembly and plow blade are completely hollow.
I consulted with @OpRN via PM before beginning the kit. He gave me a couple tips that made things easier, most notably installing the tracks toward the end of the build, and that the power train was completely invisible due to the armored shields and the belly pans.
I originally planned to build the engine as a separate display piece but that plan went awry when I discovered the engine mounts were stressed members for the frame horns to keep everything straight, so I installed the short block. Check out the radiator!
Edited to add unused engine parts. I’m already on the list for a straight CAT D7 so I can build the power plant. Note fan, accessory drives, water pump with return hose, primary and secondary fuel filters, oil filter, intake and exhaust manifolds with turbo, dry air filter housing and transmission case.
It’s Hobby Link (I know, confusing!). If you do search on FB for this, it will pop up. If you want to order direct from Hobby Link, you can, just send him an email. I’ve had no issues getting orders directly from him and the shipping is usually reasonable, sent via FedEx or DHL.
The decals were a disaster. It was a single carrier set up and I figured if I cut it as close as I could with a scalpel, it would be okay because I’d sanded the surfaces on the cab smooth prior to paint and had two coats of clear on it.
The first problem was that they absolutely wouldn’t stick to the cab. I had to use thinned white glue on them. Never got a chance to microsol them, even though I was ready prior to application.
Oddly, the small yellow and black “ROME” emblems, stuck on the armored shields for the hydraulic cylinders without glue. I figured the large decal problem was a surface tension thing.
After sneaking the model upstairs where it was warmer and waiting two full days to clear coat it again, the large decals immediately wrinkled and only got worse as the AK clear dried over them. Again, the small ROME decals were fine.
Only because I sought out and followed your advice.
I noticed you didn’t use the decals on your build. Do you want to get rid of them if you still have them?
I’m a glutton for punishment.
I didn’t get any decals. My kit was one of the first from Wannamaker’s. All my markings were hand painted. I was actually wondering where you got the decals from.
