135
Building a 251/7 Pioneer

Introduction
The 251/7 was a special variant of the Sd.Kfz.251. It was basically an improved 251/5 sapper vehicle, with the addition of angled supports on the external sidewalls to carry sapper bridges. Dragon kit number 6224 is the subject of this build, based on an Ausf. C chassis, although Dragon also offer kit number 6223 which is based on the Ausf. D.
This kit is one of the Dragon 3 in 1 series and can be built as the straightforward 251/7 Pioneerpanzerwagen, the 251/10 with 3.7 cm PAK, or the 251/1 personnel carrier. It’s also possible to mix and match, and the first alternative of a 251/7, but also including the PAK37 has been much discussed and shown to have existed, indeed is even shown on the box art.

the build
From the outset I had decided I wanted to build this one a little differently to other 251’s I’d built, and to this end I decided to use two update sets, mixing the best from both sets to achieve the effect I wanted. The two sets to be used were Eduard 35 795 Sd.Kfz. 251/7 Pioneerwagen, and Voyager 35048.
steps 1 to 4
The build began with construction of the lower chassis and running gear. As with all the Dragon 251 kits, there is a fuel tank, battery and transmission included to be installed beneath the crew compartment floor. I omitted these but instead put several sheets of lead in to give the finished model a more substantial ‘feel’. I cemented the wheel axles into place at this stage, but left the wheels off for painting later. When fixing the axles, you’ll notice that although there are positive locating pins, there is a tiny amount of ‘play’. Use this play to ‘adjust’ the axles so that the vehicle ‘sits’ at it’s lowest point. If this isn’t done, the chances are that the two front wheels will not touch the floor when the model is complete and the tracks installed.
At this stage I also joined the two wheel halves together, but didn’t fit them, as they can be installed later. When joining E3 to E5, shave a tiny amount off the top of the locating projection on part E3, and this will ensure that the two wheel halves sit parallel to each other.

  • 01
  • 02
  • 03
  • 04

About the Author

About Vinnie Branigan (Teacher)
FROM: ENGLAND - NORTH WEST, UNITED KINGDOM


Comments

Vinnie, do you ever get tired of building things?? Looks fantastic
MAR 15, 2006 - 08:09 PM
I have got to get one of these. Going to the LHS in like 10 minutes to get one ordered. Z.
MAR 15, 2006 - 08:16 PM
If Dragon doesn't put all of your work together to showcase their halftrack line, they are crazy. Unbelievable work Vinnie. I'm sure the upcoming diorama will be a show stopper. Patrick
MAR 15, 2006 - 08:44 PM
Dear Vinnie Outstanding great as usual One comment please, next time can you tell us how long does it takes each step? Because you are very productive, I wish i had a science teacher like you Cheers Seb
MAR 15, 2006 - 09:10 PM
Vinnie, Superb, must be your best 251 yet. Is this a case of practice makes perfect? I cant wait for the UHU that is in the catalogue. Regards, John
MAR 15, 2006 - 11:49 PM
wow, that is seriously impressive - that's the best 251 I've ever seen, it's a really inspirational model and the feature is in your usual great style, hats off to you Vinnie .
MAR 15, 2006 - 11:59 PM
As usual, and excellent article of an excellent model.
MAR 15, 2006 - 11:59 PM
Another amazing half track, Vinnie (for next Dragon gatalogue?) !! Tell me your secret to build a new armour so fast?? It's incredible.... :-) Tom
MAR 16, 2006 - 02:56 AM
We,ll done your highness. Excellent job. Greetz 043
MAR 16, 2006 - 09:13 PM
Smashing, Top Drawer!!!! (with best possible English accent). Looks great and I enjoyed the write up. Very informative. Pete
MAR 24, 2006 - 10:12 AM