1:35 Werkstattkraftwagen auf RSO/01

Werkstattkraftwagen auf RSO/01 – 1:35, MiniArt

An injection-molded plastic kit in 1:35 scale by MiniArt representing the German workshop vehicle (Werkstattkraftwagen) built on the chassis of the fully tracked RSO/01 tractor. The vehicle served as a mobile field workshop for repairing equipment right at the front. The model has a wooden body covering the rear load area and a well-worked workshop interior with workbenches, tools and a compressor. A full Steyr V8 engine with the drivetrain, photo-etched parts, clear parts and decals for three marking options are included as well.

The real subject

The Raupenschlepper Ost (RSO), meaning tracked tractor East, was a simple fully tracked tractor of the Wehrmacht designed for the heavy terrain of the Eastern Front. The RSO/01 version was powered by an air-cooled Steyr V8 gasoline engine. Various purpose-built bodies were mounted on its chassis; the workshop (maintenance) version worked as a mobile workshop providing field servicing and repair of vehicles and weapons.

Building and painting tips

First assemble and paint the engine, the chassis and the rich workshop interior, and only then close up the wooden body. Use thin modeling cement on the plastic, spray the parts with a primer and paint with an airbrush. Bond the fine photo-etched parts with super glue. Bring the wood of the body to life with glazes and a drybrush, and the running gear and the underside with washes and pigments for mud and dust effects.

Who the model is for

• for modelers interested in German tracked and rear-area vehicles
• for collectors of purpose-built and maintenance vehicles of the Wehrmacht in 1:35
• for makers of dioramas with a field workshop scene
• for lovers of detail (workshop interior, tools, compressor, engine)

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.