AMX-13 light tank (French)

thingiverse

This is my first attempt at generating a 1:76 tank model, and it has been a steep learning curve. I have based it on an earlier 15mm design by marcusmole (to whom my sincere thanks), but I have made so many changes (new running gear, tracks, new superstructure elements, rescaling...), that I feel that it justifies its own design reference. I hope that this is acceptable. The AMX-13 is an interesting vehicle, and has many, many variants (mpre later, hopefully...). The chassis and running changed significantly over the years, even if we discount the rebuilds offered by France, Singapore et al. Don't ask how many return rollers it should have! I have included versions with two and four return rollers... This is far from a perfect model, and the superstructure could be improved, but there are so many variations in storage boxes etc., that I hope that this variant represents a valid configuration. I would be happy to take comments on how to improve this design. I can provide bare left and right parts to permit different stowage box configurations. The running gear is loosely based on that provided for a fictitious AMX Chenillette 6-90 made available on the SketchUp library by Giganaut233. to whom my thanks as well. The individual components provided the starting point for the tracks, wheels, idler etc., but were rescaled and adjusted to suit. Strngthening elements were added where possible. The hull is split into three to make printing easier; my first attempts with an integrated unit proved difficult, and removing the supports nigh on impossible. I include a photo of all the key elements for reference. The work was done in 3D Builder, mainly, with Cura used to rescale components globally, as it does this very well. Dimensions checked in MiniMagics. The files are large as the track detail is high, and this takes memory space. However, they seem to print fine on my Ender 3, and look quite good. I copied the turrets (FL-10 and FL-11) from my EBR-75 design(s), as they are suitable for the AMX-13 as well. Just need to check print it now... Enjoy! PLEASE NOTE: The hull has been updated 26/11/18 to move the turret back by 1.5mm, as a trial build suggested a problem. This was confirmed on checking the drawings again, and an updated centre hull has been posted. I believe that this is now correct, but it is difficult to position centres exactly without better plans of the vehicle. I have checked the long 75mm gun,and it appears to be correct (it was based on the Panther gun, I believe...). Second update late evening to improve clearance for turret insert - sorry! Improved centre body loaded 27/11/18. Engine deck rearranged and front made more accurate. Hope this helps.