Our Sd.Kfz.223 Ausf.A 3.Series looks rather ‘bare’ this week, with the chassis standing without the armoured body on, but this is nothing to worry about as the team now shifts their focus to finishing all the outstanding tasks on the chassis.
Laying the Groundwork for the Sd.Kfz.223 Ausf.A 3Series Chassis
It’s never a quiet week here at the workshop. This week began with us sending the front section of the Sd.Kfz.223 body for sandblasting and priming. Meanwhile, we seized the opportunity to collect the finished rear section. It has now been stored in the workshop, awaiting painting. However, we must finish other tasks before painting, which will most likely begin once we have the front section back as well.
With the chassis now bare, the flooring has been tested to ensure a perfect fit. Simultaneously, a small section of the floor, designated to hold the voltage regulator plate that was previously missing, has been manufactured. Once all was completed, the floor was primed and is now awaiting painting.
The ‘Sockelfundament’ base, often referred to as the ‘MG sockel’, has been painted in the same colour as the chassis. The radiator fan surround has also been painted in its correct colour and mounted onto the radiator. Additional work has been carried out on the chassis as well, with the brakes fully adjusted and the steering and wheels properly aligned. These measures will ensure that we can brake and drive the Sd.Kfz.223 safely. The ‘Schutzschild’ and the armoured sump guard have also been primed and are now ready to be painted and our apprentice has manufactured the bolts for the armoured sump guard.
The MG mount has had some missing parts fabricated, including the rotation lock. The gunner’s seat is now fully painted, complete with leather cushioning, making it appear quite remarkable. Attention has turned to the dynamo, which has been disassembled, and cleaned, and will be rebuilt next week. Furthermore, the engine block has undergone some work this week by our subcontractor, with the white metalling completed. It will still take a few weeks before it is returned to us for final assembly, as there are additional tasks that need completion.
Make sure to follow our Workshop posts and updates on our Social Media channels to stay informed about the latest developments. If you would like to see the amazing Sd.Kfz.223 unveiled and in action, make sure to join our Membership program and book your place for our upcoming June event. Have a great weekend.
