T-34/85 Engine Compartment
Kit # 72022 Preview by Rob Haelterman - heman_148(at)hotmail(dot)com

When I opened the box, I was mightily impressed by the large number of pieces in this kit. When I discovered that there was nothing resembling a manual (except for the picture on the box-top), amazement turned into bafflement and eventually into despair. My first thought was that if a modeler is to assemble all these parts in the right spot, then a well-stuffed library is required.

Fortunately, Pavel Benesz from BP Resin contacted me the day this preview was first posted. I now have a clear picture (that looks like an alternative box-top) and a very clear manual. (See pictures at the bottom of this page.)

It seems that my set lacked them, which would have been a real shame, as the quality of the casting is sublime, and the effect one will be able to obtain with this set breath-taking.
Nevertheless, some extra detailing will be needed for the hoses, ducts and other tubing and for the suspension springs for instance.
Given the importance of the T-34 it is actually surprising that only one set has been done for this tank, as a sister set for the turret and driver's compartment might be very welcome.

This set is meant for the Dragon T-34/85 kit, and I guess that's the kit I will be using, although at this stage I see no reason why I couldn't fit it to a Dragon T-34/76. (If our readers can tell me why it couldn't, please let us know.) I know there were some differences to the oil tanks during the war, but what exactly remains obscure.

Highly recommended, especially now that I have the manual.

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Article Last Updated: 07 February 2011