How to install finished Modelcasten tracks?

Modeling Subjects Armor
1

The model is a Panzer IVD so it has a large forward sprocket, a large rear idler, lots of small road wheel and even smaller return rollers on the top.

I did some testing and realized this is going to tricky since the track is so delicate and I’m afraid before I know it some of the guide teeth will be broken off or somethng.

Should the ends of the track be joined before I put it on the tank or after? I’d prefer if it were jointed/closed but this will make it to tight to go around the wheels. I’m considering putting the track on and adding the road wheels next.

I’m hesitating, if somebody knows a really good technique please let me know.

2

If you are using ModelKasten Workable tracks, then you have to put them on the suspension before closing them up. I usually put them on from the drive sprocket first and bring them around the idler wheel to a point where the track links meet up mid way on the bottom side of the wheels. I then flip the model over and pin them together. It is pretty easy actually. You could put the road wheels in after you close up the tracks, but the above is how I do them.

Cheers

Rob

3

If you’re fitting them to a Tamiya kit with polycaps it’s even easier as you can rotate the drivesprocket while fitting them.