ICM's 1/35th scale FWD Type B - Builder's Notes

Today, we dive into the intricate world of model building with the 1/35th scale FWD Type B kit from ICM. This video will guide you through my build process, highlighting both the beauty and the challenges of this historic model.
Kit Overview:
The kit is beautifully molded with impressive raised and recessed details. However, the soft plastic and the packing method can lead to breakage - a drawback I encountered with my kit.
Build Highlights:
Chassis Construction: The chassis assembly is a bit tricky due to the numerous right-angle joints. Ensuring everything stays square can be challenging.
Radiator and Cab Assembly: The instructions suggest attaching the radiator to the chassis early on. In hindsight, attaching it to the cab first might be a better approach for a cleaner glue joint.
Mounting the Cab: Attaching the cab to the chassis is tough, with minimal reference points. Patience and precision are key.
Side Steps: Aligning the side steps was difficult due to limited reference points. Ensuring they are straight and square took extra effort.
Axles and Anti-Sway Bars: Expect the anti-sway bars to break - mine did without any mishandling. Luckily, reattaching them was straightforward.
Bed Cover: Assembling the bed cover was a nightmare. Building it directly on the bed is advisable, but don’t forget to paint the interior beforehand.
Lights and Lamps: While the lights and lamps went on easily, the clear parts didn’t look quite right to me.
Driver Figures: I planned to add driver figures, but the IDM driver figures didn't fit this kit. Keep this in mind if you’re planning a diorama.
Conclusion:
Despite the challenges, this kit is a rewarding build. It’s not for beginners, but intermediate modelers and above will enjoy the end result. The FWD Type B is a remarkable piece of history and makes for a fantastic display piece.
Join me as I reflect on my build process, share insights, and hopefully help you avoid some of the pitfalls I encountered. Happy hobbying!
00:00 The Plastic
01:23 The Build
09:18 The Conclusion

[@nickbutler7935]

I.C.M. have some interesting kits, but some are just way over/ under engineered depending on your view point. Thanks for the handy tips.

[@c123bthunderpig]

Nice build out, and I definitely benefited from the video, primarily because more cars becoming do parts heavy it fan be frustrating I do like ICM kits. They have certainly expanded their kits to cover just about every thing you can imagine over land sea or air. I was surprised their packaging of the box was not up to their usual standards and the drivers didn't match. Still you have a vintage truck that displays very well. Thanks for sharing. What's coming up next?

[@middlingmodeler]

Thanks! Yeah, I think their packaging would have worked had things been jammed in the bag a bit more tightly. As for what is next, I just finished a build on a V-1 Reichenberg which I did as a small vignette, that should be the next video in a couple weeks. I also just finished the build on a Nissan Skyline the other day so that video should be coming out in the near future as well.