Tamiya 35064 1/35 German Leopard Medium Tank Model Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides guidance for the construction and finishing of the Tamiya 35064 1/35 scale German Leopard Medium Tank model kit. This kit allows for the creation of a detailed replica of the West German Army's Leopard 1 main battle tank.

The kit includes components for a realistic commander figure, pliable plastic tracks, a formidable gun barrel, a machine gun carriage, and towing rope. Waterslide decals are also provided for authentic markings.

Figure 1.1: Packaging for the Tamiya 35064 1/35 German Leopard Medium Tank model kit.

2. Safety Information

• Small Parts Warning: This model kit contains small parts which may pose a choking hazard. Keep out of reach of small children.
• Adhesives and Paints: Plastic cement and paints are required for assembly and finishing. These products are sold separately and should be used in a well-ventilated area. Follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturers of these products.
• Sharp Tools: Assembly requires the use of sharp tools such as hobby knives and plastic cutters. Exercise caution to prevent injury.

3. Package Contents

Upon opening the box, verify that all components are present. The kit typically includes:

• Plastic sprues containing tank components
• Pliable plastic track sections
• Commander figure parts
• Waterslide decal sheet
• Instruction booklet
• Additional parts such as towing rope and mesh (if applicable to the specific kit version)

Note: Plastic cement, paints, and modeling tools are not included and must be purchased separately.

4. Assembly

Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in the kit's dedicated instruction booklet. General assembly steps include:

1. Part Preparation: Carefully remove parts from the sprues using plastic cutters. Clean any excess plastic (flash) with a hobby knife or fine sandpaper.
2. Test Fitting: Before applying cement, test fit parts to ensure proper alignment and fit.
3. Cementing: Apply plastic cement sparingly to the mating surfaces of parts. Hold parts together firmly until the cement sets.
4. Sub-Assemblies: Assemble major components such as the hull, turret, and running gear separately before combining them.
5. Track Assembly: The pliable plastic tracks are designed for ease of assembly. Follow the instructions for joining and fitting them around the road wheels and drive sprockets.
6. Commander Figure: Assemble the commander figure according to the instructions and place it in the designated hatch.

Refer to the kit's instruction booklet for specific part numbers and assembly sequences.

5. Painting and Finishing

Once the model is fully assembled, it is ready for painting and decal application. The kit's instruction booklet provides a painting guide with recommended colors and camouflage patterns.

1. Cleaning: Ensure the assembled model is clean and free of dust or grease before painting.
2. Priming: Applying a primer coat can improve paint adhesion and provide a uniform base color.
3. Base Coats: Apply base colors using enamel or acrylic paints, as recommended. Multiple thin coats are preferable to one thick coat.
4. Detail Painting: Paint smaller details such as tools, machine guns, and the commander figure.
5. Weathering (Optional): Advanced modelers may choose to apply weathering effects to simulate wear and tear.
6. Decal Application: Cut out the desired decals from the sheet. Dip them in water for a few seconds until they can slide off the backing paper. Carefully position them on the model and gently blot away excess water. Use decal setting solutions for better adhesion and to conform to surface details.
7. Protective Coat: A clear matte or gloss coat can be applied after painting and decaling to protect the finish.

Figure 5.1: An example of the completed and painted Tamiya 1/35 German Leopard Medium Tank model.

6. Maintenance and Care of Finished Model

To preserve the appearance of your finished model, follow these care guidelines:

• Dusting: Regularly dust the model with a soft brush or a can of compressed air to prevent dust buildup.
• Cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, gently wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the paint or decals.
• Display: Display the model in a stable location away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, which can cause fading, warping, or damage to the finish.
• Handling: Handle the model by its base or sturdy sections to avoid damaging delicate parts.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Encountering issues during model assembly or finishing is common. Here are solutions to some frequent problems:

• Parts Not Fitting: Ensure all flash is removed from the parts. Test fit before cementing. If a part is slightly warped, gentle heat (e.g., from warm water) can sometimes help reshape it.
• Poor Paint Adhesion: Ensure the model surface is clean and free of oils or dust before painting. A primer coat can significantly improve adhesion.
• "Silvering" of Decals: This occurs when air is trapped under the decal, making it look silvery. Apply a gloss coat before decaling, use decal setting solutions, and ensure the decal is pressed down firmly to remove air bubbles. A final clear coat can also help.
• Broken Small Parts: If a small part breaks, attempt to re-attach it with a strong plastic cement or super glue. For very small or lost parts, scratch-building a replacement from plastic sheet or rod may be necessary.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, replacement parts, or technical support, please refer to the official Tamiya website or contact your local Tamiya distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.