The Sd.Kfz.223 remains the team’s main focus, but this week we had to wait for some jobs to be completed before we could continue with the body reassembly. Because of this, the team had the opportunity to perform some maintenance work on our French light tank, the Renault FT. Last year, the Renault TSF underwent extensive maintenance, and being one of the most used vehicles in our collection, the Renault FT was in need of similar attention. With a bit of spare time, the team took on the task and ensured the light tank was fully serviced.
The complete running gear was greased, oils were topped up, spark plugs and the carburettor were checked and cleaned, and the steering slack was sorted too. With the task complete, it now runs very smoothly again and is ready for future use.
The team also utilised this small break to advance our other armoured car project, the Sd.Kfz.261, with its lower suspension wishbones being machined. Our Haas CNC machine was also reprogrammed this week and is now ready to start manufacturing parts for our future projects.
The Sd.Kfz.223 engine block was retrieved this week and is on its way to a second subcontractor to finish all the necessary work before it’s returned to us to be fully assembled.
Other parts were manufactured for the Sd.Kfz.223; the dynamo bracket has its straps and clamps fitted and trial mounted. A template of the radio operator’s seat back has been made; this will allow the team to ensure everything is correct before the final part is manufactured.
We expect the front of the armoured hull is to be retrieved at the start of next week, meaning if the weather permits, we will get it painted and mounted once more to the chassis again.
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.
