Once all of the weathering was finished I fitted all of the parts together for the models final assembly. I tried to keep it as modular as possible so I could open it up and still see inside. I also managed to retain all of the moving parts on the model. The engine and transmission hatches, the seats and the periscopes.
After the tracks were fitted back on the wheels I noticed that there was more slack than before, possibly due to the metal pins stretching between the links, similar to tanks in real life. That's why they are fitted with track tension adjusters to fix this problem. My solution was to remove a couple of links and the tracks fitted nicely back into place.
I then preceded on with the final weathering steps. First I applied some Vallejo dark steel pigment to the track cleats and edges. For this I used a silicone sculpting tool which works excellently to transfer the pigment to the model, it buffs it at the same time to give a nice metallic sheen. Next I created some clumped grass and earth stuck in the tracks using some Ammo by Mig weathering effects. Crushed grass and thick mud. Finishing it with a little dab of dark earth pigment to represent fresh loose soil.
Then it was done, I could finally add this one to the shelf. I have extensive coverage of the finished model over on my photo gallery. Please click the link below to view.
I have uploaded the final part of the Marder III series to YouTube. It can be found using the link below.
I really enjoyed this build, especially the painting process. It is my most detailed model to date, and one of the smallest.
Thank you to everyone who has followed this build, and I appreciate all of the support from this great community.
My next project will be the USMC Bell AH-1Z Viper "Shark Mouth" Helicopter in 1/35 scale. I saw this kit in my local shop and bought it immediately!. In 1/35th scale this is a beast of a model, and I can't wait to get started on it. I have also bought 3 additional after market PE kits. A cockpit detail set with resin color monitors, a brass Gatling gun and some PE seat belts.
I will have a video review of this kit over on my blog members page sometime this week. If you are interested in joining I have videos, info and photos exclusive to the members page over at
I will also be covering the build on YouTube and Instagram in the coming weeks, so feel free to check those out too.
