Steyr RSO/01 with German Soldiers and Accessories
Model Kit No. 6549, 1:35 Scale
Introduction
In response to the challenging road conditions on the Eastern Front, German forces developed tracked tractors known as 'Raupenschlepper-Ost' (RSO) to tow various vehicles and transport supplies like ammunition and food. The RSO/1, produced by Steyr in annexed Austria, featured a commercial-type pressed steel cab and a wooden cargo body. It proved highly effective in the mud and slush conditions encountered on the Russian front, representing a significant effort by the German army to counter the overwhelming Soviet forces.
Assembly Instructions - General Advice
Before beginning assembly, carefully study the instructions. Use a sharp knife or scissors to remove parts from the frames, and trim any excess plastic. Avoid pulling parts. Assemble components in numerical order. Use plastic cement sparingly to prevent damage to the model. Black arrows indicate parts to be glued, while white arrows show parts to be assembled without glue. Letters (e.g., A, B, C) indicate the frame on which the parts are located. Paint small parts before detaching them from the frame and remove paint from areas where parts will be cemented. Parts marked with a cross should not be used.
Parts Identification
The kit includes various parts organized into frames labeled A, B, C, D, and E. Refer to the diagrams for specific part numbers and their corresponding frames. A color table is provided to assist with painting, referencing Italeri Acrylic Paints.
Assembly Steps
The assembly process is broken down into numbered steps, with detailed diagrams illustrating the placement and connection of each part. These steps cover the chassis, suspension, cabin, cargo body, and accessories.
Step 1: Assembly of the chassis and suspension components.
Step 2: Construction of the engine and drivetrain parts.
Step 3: Assembly of the cabin, including interior details and windows.
Step 4: Construction of the cargo bed and its supporting structure.
Step 5: Final assembly of the main vehicle components, including tracks and cabin attachment.
Painting and Decal Application
The kit provides several camouflage schemes for different units and periods:
- A. 278th Infantry Division, Italy, Summer 1944
- B. 12th Luftwaffe Felddivision, Kurland, 1944
- C. 1st Skijager Brigade, Pripjet marsh, Ukraine/Belarus, 1944
- D. Le. Art. Abt. 602 (RSO), Albania, 1943
- E. 19th Volksgrenadier Div., 119 Art. Rgt., Mosel area, 1944
A color table indicates the recommended Italeri Acrylic Paints for each scheme. Decal application instructions are provided, advising to dip decals in water for approximately 20 seconds, slide them onto the model, and press with a clean cloth for better adhesion.
Included Figures
The kit also includes figures of German soldiers with various accessories, detailed in separate assembly diagrams (Pages 9 and 10). These figures can be posed in different scenarios.
Product Information
Manufacturer: ITALERI S.p.A.
Address: Via Pradazzo, 6/B, 40012 - Calderara di Reno (BO) ITALY
Contact: italeri@italeri.com, www.italeri.com
Warning: For adult collectors age 14 and over.