1/35 Zis-5B Truck by Jack Riggar
The Zvezda Zis-5 features a mixed bag of parts, some well detailed, others simplified or poorly rendered. Jack decided to rebuild many of the worse parts, using basic modeling skills without the aid of aftermarket products. For reference, Jack used a detailed walkaround of the prototype found on the Silicon Valley Scale Modeler's (SVSM) website. Since no two Zis-5 trucks look exactly the same, the modeler can really go to town, picking and choosing features to create a truely unique replica.
The incorrectly shaped vinyl tyres suffer from aweful bubbles. Jack reshaped the tyres and rims, adding detail and correct tread pattern, then used the part as a master to cast replacements in resin. When finished, the valve stems were added to the resin wheels, as this was easier then including the stems with the castings.
Jack reshaped the engine, universal joints, break hydraulics, and drive shaft to more accurately reflect the prototype. A new exhaust system was fabricated from Evergreen stock. The very tiny and intricate taillight was also built from scratch. Jack notes that he likes this feature the most on the completed model. The entire dashboard was also built from scratch since the kit part does not resemble the real thing.
The Zis-5 features many wooden parts. The Zvezda model captures this woodgrain texture well in some areas, but rather overdone in others.
Jack scratch built all the glazing using polycarbonate from TAP plastics. The polycarbonate looks much more realistic than acetate and does not scratch as easily. TAP Plastics sells extremely flat, optical quality polycarbonate, 5-30 1000s mils thick. He also notes that you cannot vacuform with this material. At this stage, Jack also added additional detail to the doors.
Despite the numerous corrections made to this point, the kit does feature a very nice grill and headlights.
The completed model was painted Tamiya Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) Green.
Jack filled the bed of the truck with a wide variety of parts cast from resin or scrath built for the job. The resin Tiger tank engine came from Verlinden. The crates were fabricated from balsawood and basswood. Propane tanks were sourced from an Italeri workshop set, featuring chipping done with a sponge and panzer chocolate brown. The chain was artfully draped into the bed and then secured with thin white glue.
Album (select a picture to view at full size):
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All photographs copyright by photographer. All rights reserved. All photographs used with permission.
To correct any errors or omissions on this page, please contact us.
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