Work continues on the 4 Serie Sd.Kfz.223 chassis. The focus at the moment is on the wheel stations. One is now complete ex the wheel hub and brake drum and another will be ready by the end of play this week – today. The gear shaft mechanism is presenting a few problems as key parts are missing. The shaft was shortened some time ago. This has now been rectified. The key parts missing for the gear shift mechanism will have to be made. We are dismantling the set from our 4 Serie. Sd.Kfz.222 to arrange for a pattern and casting to take place (see main image). The replacement bearings have been ordered for the gearbox of the 4 Serie Sd.Kfz.223. These will be fitted once the casings and gears have been cleaned.
The 4 Serie Sd.Kfz.222 is undergoing continued albeit slower work on the conservation front. The later applied layers of paint are being removed to expose the initial paint treatment applied during the assembly process.
Research into the 5 Serie Sd.Kfz.261 continues. We are currently sorting out the foot pedal arrangement. This project will be ready to start once the 4 Serie Sd.Kfz.222 is well underway. The chassis, suspension and drive train is very different for this 801v chassis. The gathering of the missing parts is posing some difficulties but we are fortunate in that we have had recent successes in this regard.
A big move is planned later next week. The Indian/New Zealand pattern carrier is due to be rehoused. All the small parts are going to long term storage and the chassis from the 2nd vehicle is off to storage elsewhere. This will clear up the new display hall and allow for additional vehicles to be properly displayed alongside others already there.
