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Panzer IV Ausf J Etch Sets for Dragon ET Models 1:35 History Despite addressing the mobility problems introduced by the Ausf H model, the final production version of the Panzer IV, the Ausf J was considered a retrograde step from the Ausf. H. Born of German necessity to replace heavy losses, it was greatly simplified to speed production. The electric generator that powered the tank's turret traverse was removed, so the turret had to be rotated manually. The space was later used for the installation of an auxiliary 200-litre (44 imp gal) fuel tank; road range was thereby increased to 320 km (200 mi). The pistol and vision ports in the turret were removed, and the engine's radiator housing was simplified by changing the slanted sides to straight sides. In addition, the cylindrical muffler was replaced by two flame-suppressing mufflers. By late 1944, Zimmerit was no longer being applied to German armoured vehicles, and the Panzer IV's side-skirts had been replaced by wire mesh, while to further speed production the number of return rollers was reduced from four to three. These three sets are for the rather difficult to find Dragon Smart Kit. There doesn’t seem to be any crossover between the sets so the modeller can add as much or as little extra detail to the kit as they see fit. As usual each set is contained in a thick poly bag with a card header and the instructions on the standard green A4 sheets. They are pretty clear and concise, but careful reading will reap rewards when it comes to fitting the sub assemblies to their respective positions. Some kit detail will need to be removed before adding the etched parts, plus brass and styrene rod will be required from the modellers own stock. Latest Production fenders. (EA35-069) As the name suggests, this set provides the fenders for the hull sides. Each fender is made up of upper and lower skins, bracing struts, access panels with locking clamps, plus various rivet and screw details. The front and rear mudguards are separate sub assemblies and require hinge rod to be made for each one, probably best to use brass rod for this. A template for these is provided on the instruction sheet. One the mudguards are fitted there are four very small springs provided to be attached to the outside of each assembly, attaching the mudguards to the fenders. Basic Set (E35-089) As per usual for ET Models basic sets, they are anything but basic. The set contains three sheets of relief etched brass, each of differing sizes. Sheet A Contains various strap clamps, and tool tie down clamps, a replacement storage box for the spare wheels, this item will need a length of plastic rod to complete the assembly. There are optinal clamps for the wheel spanners depending on whether an early or late production batch is being built. There are also new track pins and clamps for the spare track links, detailed parts for the headlamps, new clamps and supports for the fire extinguisher, new bracket and straps for the ammunition box on the port side foreward, and new straps for the gun cleaning rods. The kit strengthening brackets around the turret ring are removed and replaced with finer brass parts, whilst the driver and machine gunner hatches receive replacement internal locking mechanisms. The turret bustle is provided with new fixed and moveable parts for the lid, as well as a new locking mechanism. At the rear of the vehicle replacement exhaust silencers are rolled and detailed with additional brass parts before fitting to the model. Sheet B contains additional tools, brackets and clamps, plus new handles, winder, and brackets for the jack. The turret hatches on either side receive new locking clamps. The bustle lid on sheet A has additional strengthening brackets for it on this sheet. The commanders cupola is also detailed up with new hinges and locks for the hatch, the external cupola ring is also replaced, plus there is a complete machine gun mount made up entirely of parts from this sheet. Sheet C is the smallest of the three in this set, and as such has the least number of parts. There are four parts that make up into what I can only call gutter type assemblies which fit over the hatches on the turret sides. Only two are required for the model, and the design used will depend on whether an early or late production tank is being built. There are five support brackets for the cupola ring and the rest of the sheet contains different length chains for the pip pins fitted to various brackets from sheet A. External protective screens, Schurzen. (E35-091) This two part set provides all the parts to make up the two large mesh side screens and the solid turret screens seen on late production batches. The set comes complete with four sheets of relief etched brass, plus two lengths of brass tube. The lettering that identifies each sheet appears to continue on from set E35-089 described above so to prevent confusion I’ll continue this theme. Sheet D contains all the brackets, support arms, strengthening webs, hinges and panels that go to make up the shield around the turret sides and rear. The main support brackets don’t look that complex, but they will have to be bent into the correct shape and fortunately ET have provided a guide for each sized assembly. The hinges will require brass or plastic rod to finish them off and to allow those particular panels that are moveable to be posed open, so that the hatches on the turret sides can also be opened. Sheet F contains two mesh parts that are required to finish off the turret shield and these are the mesh screens that go on top either side of the turret bustle storage. The rest of the sheet provides all the brackets, supports, clamps, and fixings that, in conjunction with the brass rod, all goes to make up the main mesh shield support structure. Sheet G provides the alternative anti grenade screens that sit on top of the tanks fenders these are made up of the mesh screens, surrounds, which have projections which need to be curve to sit on the brass tubes, and angled supports. Additionally the hangers for the for the main screens are also contained on this sheet. Sheet H provides the six main screens with their respective upper and lower strengthening beams. The mesh is beautifully done with over and under weave that is still very fine. Don’t be afraid to leave on or two panels off as they didn’t seem to stay attached long, either through loss or the crews removing them for some reason. Conclusion Once again ET Models have produced a stunning selection of etched brass for the Panzer IV Ausf J, even though the kit doesn’t seem to be that easy to find. If you are lucky enough to have one or perhaps find one from the Far East then these sets will really add some fine detail, not to mention the distinctive screens. If using all three sets, not only will you need an extra gallon of patience and a steady hand, but the eyesight of a hawk, or at least a very good magnifier. When complete the completed model should look stunning. Highly recommended. Available from White Ensign Models in the UK Review Sample courtesy of