Cat D8H Dozer

[Warren D]

Starting a new build while waiting on parts for the Brock 360.  I built the original about 40 years ago and still have it (minus the exhaust stack).  I need a break from trucks so this should scratch that itch.  I got the new kit and decided to add some PE so I got the CTM details.  I'm using replacement tracks and will add a ROPS from Jamie.  My biggest concern is the grill, guess I need to take my time and keep my fingers crossed.

 

[Chariots of Fire]

I have one of those to build also.  Biggest complaint over the years has been the tracks.  Way to clunky.  One of these days I just may get it out and do something with it. 

[Mopar - D]

Warren I’m glad to see you starting your dozer. My remaining aftermarket parts are arriving next Tuesday so I can finish mine. I’ll take lots of pictures on how I do my grill and post them for you. 

[Jim B]

I've toyed around with picking one of these up, but the lack of Caterpillar logos really annoys me.  I'll be watching this build with interest.

[Warren D]

  On 5/20/2022 at 2:15 PM, Chariots of Fire said:

I have one of those to build also.  Biggest complaint over the years has been the tracks.  Way to clunky.  One of these days I just may get it out and do something with it. 

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The aftermarket tracks seem pretty good, 3D printed and they look much better than those in the kit.  I'm sure once you get going you'll do your normal excellent work.

[Warren D]

  On 5/20/2022 at 5:13 PM, Mopar - D said:

Warren I’m glad to see you starting your dozer. My remaining aftermarket parts are arriving next Tuesday so I can finish mine. I’ll take lots of pictures on how I do my grill and post them for you. 

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Thanks, I've been working various parts this afternoon, CTM instructions are a little shaky......some of these PE parts are SMALL!!!!!

[Warren D]

  On 5/20/2022 at 8:01 PM, Jim B said:

I've toyed around with picking one of these up, but the lack of Caterpillar logos really annoys me.  I'll be watching this build with interest.

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You can get the original decals from Jerry @ Modeltruckin'.  I think I have a couple sets I bought a couple of years ago, I should probably hunt them down sooner than later!

[Warren D]

Some progress with the PE.

I removed the molded on fan shroud before mounting the PE one

 

[Warren D]

Other PE work, the floor of the cab.  I ground off the molded on diamond plate prior to mounting the PE.  I also got the battery box done.  The CTM instructions seem to indicate that the radiator screen should go on the inside but I put it on the outside as it will probably be seen thru the grill.

 

[Mopar - D]

Nice progress Warren. I would of done the same with the radiator screen. I received my dozer aftermarket parts today I’m shocked they were in NY yesterday. 

[gotnitro?]

Nice etch work

[Warren D]

Another lesson learned the hard way.  I got the frame together and the radiator in.  I then checked the fit of the nose (with the grill) and found out the frame is 1/16" wider.  I want the nose to fit flush with the sides so carefully removed the radiator, shaved it down and re-installed.  The nose now will sit flush with the sides.  If I build another one, I'll check the fit first!  (If I remember.  It's been about 40 years since the first one so not likely I'll be around in another 40!)

 

[Mopar - D]

I know what you mean Warren it was about 45 years ago for me when I built my last one. I’ve been test fitting just about all the parts on my current build. 

[gotnitro?]

Nice work Warren

[Warren D]

The tractor body is coming along, got the floor and fuel/hydro tanks installed.  At some point very soon, I'll need to start painting.  As for the grill, I decided I wanted the PE grill to sit flush with the surroundings as I've seen in photos of the real thing.  That meant precision removal of the center section.  I taped the PE grill over the nose and scored around the perimeter with a new #11 blade.  I removed the PE and used very fine toothed saws to remove the inner section.  I then used 0.30 square stock as a backer.  I'm generally pleased with the result, I have to add the bolt head detail.  It isn't quite perfect, but I'm satisfied.

 

[Mopar - D]

Nice work on the PE installing Warren. They will really make a difference when you get it painted. 

[yh70]

looking good..

[Dutzie]

Looking good!

[Warren D]

Started working on the tracks, these are aftermarket.  I started by painting them yellow, holding an arc as if they were going around the sprocket.  I did this to get paint into the joints.  I use Polyscale, the tracks are 3D printed and don't need primer as the Pollyscale sticks to 3D prints and resin as good as any primer I've used.  Next, I laid the tracks face up and flat and sprayed them with Testors chrome in a rattle can.  A quick touch up on the backs with more yellow and I ran some steel wool over the chrome to "scratch it up".  When the tracks are on the sprocket, you'll see the yellow paint between the grousers.  The look I'm going for is a newer (or newly repainted) unit with some light use.

 

[Mopar - D]

Tracks look good Warren they will have that newly painted affect when you have them on. What yellow paint are you using?

[Warren D]

  On 6/5/2022 at 11:42 PM, Mopar - D said:

Tracks look good Warren they will have that newly painted affect when you have them on. What yellow paint are you using?

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I'm using my own blend of Pollyscale yellows.  Looks like the older Cats I saw when growing up.  Pics have a little green tint that isn't there.

[Rich Ghia]

Looking great so far. I weathered mine to hid most of the lack of detail, especially the front grill. Wish we had more access to PE and decals in the UK as this kit really lacks it. Also the tracks has some of the mouldings missing so not all of them clicked in.

[Warren D]

My PE sets are all CTM, Czech Truck Models.  You could probably order right from their website if you can't find them in-country.

[Dutzie]

Great work. 

[gotnitro?]

Nice paint work