Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, painting, and finishing of your Tamiya 1/35 W German Flakpanzer Gepard plastic model kit. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning the construction process. Familiarize yourself with all parts and tools required to ensure a smooth and enjoyable building experience.
Safety Information
WARNING: This model kit contains small parts which may pose a choking hazard for young children. Keep out of reach of children under 3 years of age. Exercise caution when using sharp tools such as hobby knives and side cutters. Always use adhesives and paints in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, when necessary.
Package Contents
Your Tamiya 1/35 W German Flakpanzer Gepard model kit includes all necessary plastic parts for assembly, typically organized on several sprues. It also contains a decal sheet and a detailed instruction booklet. Please verify that all sprues are present and undamaged upon opening the box. If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact Tamiya customer support.
Tools and Materials Required
Successful model building requires a few essential tools and materials. The image below illustrates the recommended items for assembling this kit.
Image: Recommended tools for model assembly. This includes items such as tweezers, a cutter knife, decal scissors, side cutters, a brush set, masking tape, plastic cement, and decal adhesive.
- Side Cutters: For cleanly removing parts from the sprues.
- Hobby Knife: For trimming excess plastic (flash) and precise cuts.
- Tweezers: For handling small parts and applying decals.
- Plastic Cement: Specifically designed for bonding plastic model parts.
- Decal Scissors: For cutting out decals accurately.
- Masking Tape: For precise painting and holding parts during assembly.
- Paint Brushes: Various sizes for detailed painting.
- Decal Adhesive/Softener: To help decals conform to surfaces.
Assembly Instructions
Follow the numbered steps provided in the included instruction booklet. Each step details the parts required and their placement. Carefully cut parts from the sprues using side cutters, ensuring a clean break. Remove any excess plastic, known as 'flash', with a hobby knife or fine-grit sandpaper. Always test fit parts before applying plastic cement to ensure proper alignment. Apply plastic cement sparingly to avoid damaging the plastic or obscuring details. Allow sufficient drying time for each glued section before proceeding to the next step. Note that certain features, such as the front and back radars, are designed to rotate, and the rear panel is hinged to open, adding to the model's realism.
Painting Guide
The image below provides a guide for the recommended Tamiya XF (flat) and X (gloss) acrylic paints required for this model. Before painting, ensure all assembled parts are clean, dry, and free of dust or grease. Applying a thin coat of primer can improve paint adhesion and provide a uniform base color. Apply paints in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next. This technique helps prevent paint buildup and preserves fine details.
Image: Recommended Tamiya XF (flat) and X (gloss) acrylic paints for the model kit, including their article numbers and descriptions.
Recommended Paints (Tamiya XF - Flat)
- XF-1 Black
- XF-2 White
- XF-10 Brown
- XF-15 Flesh
- XF-56 Metallic Grey
- XF-62 Olive Drab
- XF-64 Red Brown
Recommended Paints (Tamiya X - Gloss)
- X-1 Black Gloss
- X-7 Red Gloss
- X-10 Gun Metal Gloss
- X-11 Chrome Silver Gloss
- X-20A Thinner (for X-Acrylic Paints)
Decal Application
Decals add important markings and details to your model. Carefully cut out each decal from the sheet as close to the design as possible. Dip the decal in lukewarm water for a few seconds until it can slide freely from the backing paper. Using tweezers, gently slide the decal onto the desired position on the model. Blot away any excess water with a soft, lint-free cloth or cotton swab. For decals that need to conform to irregular or curved surfaces, apply a decal setting solution (e.g., Tamiya Mark Fit Strong) to help them settle and eliminate air bubbles. Allow decals to dry completely before applying any clear coats.
Maintenance
To preserve the appearance and longevity of your Tamiya model, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause paint fading and plastic degradation. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. Regularly dust your model with a soft brush or a can of compressed air to prevent dust buildup in crevices. Do not use harsh chemical cleaners, as these can damage paint and plastic surfaces. Handle the model carefully to prevent accidental breakage of delicate parts.
Troubleshooting
- Parts not fitting correctly: Ensure all excess plastic (flash) has been removed from the parts. Double-check the instruction diagrams for correct part orientation and placement. Sometimes, a slight sanding or trimming may be necessary for a perfect fit.
- Decals not adhering or bubbling: Ensure the surface where the decal is applied is clean and smooth. Use a decal setting solution to help the decal conform to surface details and remove air bubbles. Gently press down with a cotton swab to remove excess solution and air.
- Paint issues (e.g., uneven finish, brush marks): Apply paint in thin, multiple coats rather than one thick coat. Ensure each coat is dry before applying the next. Use appropriate paint thinners as recommended by Tamiya for smooth application. Work in a dust-free environment to prevent particles from settling on wet paint.
- Broken small parts: If a small part breaks during assembly, use plastic cement to reattach it. For very small or delicate parts, consider reinforcing the joint with a tiny drop of super glue or a small piece of plasticard if possible.
Specifications
- Brand: TAMIYA
- Model Name: 1/35 W German Flakpanzer Gepard
- Model Number: TAM35099
- Scale: 1:35
- Material Type: Plastic
- Included Components: Model Kit
- Recommended Age: 10+ years
Warranty and Support
Tamiya products are manufactured to high standards. For questions regarding missing parts, assembly difficulties, or general product inquiries, please contact Tamiya America, Inc. customer support directly. Please retain your purchase receipt as proof of purchase. Specific warranty details, if applicable, can often be found on the official Tamiya website or within the product packaging.
Tamiya America, Inc. Contact Information:
(Please refer to the official Tamiya website for the most current contact details.)