1st Model Advice

[DSWG]

Just been given the Takom FV432 1/35 set as a present as I used to drive the ambulance version. Never built a model kit before and looking for any advice a complete novice would need. Essential tools and paints required etc. as well as any way of converting the inside into the ambulance variant.

Thanks in advance

[pjgtech]

Hi mate, check out the kit instructions, (should be in the box), just take your time, and enjoy it.

You can use fairly basic tools if just starting out.
Nippers or similar cutters to cut parts off the sprue.
Tweezers are always handy.
Some sort of basic file to smooth off any rough edges.
Adhesive, eg: Revell or Tamiya
If painting theres loads of makers, popular ones are Tamiya, Revell, Mr Hobby Ammo (Mig).
Amazon, Temu Ali Express, Ebays etc all sell basic modelling starter sets, or try any local model shop, Hobbycraft, etc..
See linky...

https://www.scalemodelshop.co.uk/6pc-modelmakers-tool-set-in-storage-box-expo-tools-73525/

Its always helpful/useful to do a bit of googling of the subject you are modelling, theres usually loads of info out there and photos of the real thing or other models, to give you ideas.... or just ask on here....

Just be aware...... if you find that you enjoy it....its a slippery slope! 8-)

[LeytonO]

You have picked quite a complicated model to start your journey.
Might be an idea to have a practice on something simpler e.g. Tamiya Panzer II (35009)
Goes together well and can be had for about a tenner or so
Some good tips above from Peter, be aware that the modern glues give off quite a smell.
Check Youtube for videos on how to apply them, very different to the old style stringy plastic cement

Might also be an idea to use water based acrylic paints such as those from Vallejo.
Much easier to clean up and again less smelly fumes that might be unacceptable to you or others in your abode

There was a conversion interior kit made for the ambulance interior.
Unfortunately the maker Accurate Armour ceased trading this year.
Perhaps a search on Ebay or a wider Google search might turn one up.

[Jim R]

Welcome to the forum. As Rich says this is not a simple kit to start with. Having said that with patience and time you should produce a model to be proud of.

For sticking together the plastic bits - any thin styrene cement. Tamiya Thin, VMS, loads to choose from. Paint, assuming you're brush painting not using an airbrush, I would recommend Vallejo Model Color. It can be diluted with water. Two or three thin coats is always better than one thick coat which simply clogs up detail.. I think the kit has some brass photo etched parts. For that you will need CA glue (Super glue)

Again I would go along with Rich. Have a go at a cheap Tamiya kit or one of the new Aifix starter kits. You'll learn a lot and if you do mess it up it doesn't matter.

I wish you well. It's a great hobby.

[DSWG]

Thank you for the advice guys, think I'll get a starter kit and have a practice 👍

[kacitgirl]

tbh i cant offer advice on that scale but as said above ⬆