Case VAI tractor - Answer

[modelperry]

Now that I've reached a break point for my long term project, I thought I'd tackle a few "easier" ones.

This is Answer's model of a Case VAI tractor in US Army livery. I could easily see this one being recolored into a civilian version in the future.

This particular booklet contains two complete models, one in 1:33 scale and one in 1:25 scale. This thread focuses on the latter but could easily apply to the smaller version.

As a bit of history, this model represents the Case VA series tractor. The "I" in the name means it was the industrial version with a more conventional front axle. The VAC version would be the crop row version with the front wheels close together similar to a tri-cycle.

During WWII Case suspended civilian tractor production to build these military ones in addition to other non-tractor components for military use.

The pages are of nice sturdy cardstock with printing on both sides as needed for those pieces that would be only one ply of thickness but visible all around (rear fenders are an example).

So, to begin, the basic engine block, driveline tunnel and transmission are built up first. The Engine block head has some relief detail that requires fine cutting skills. Otherwise the only tricky thing is to get everything lined up in a straight line.

Next is the rear axle assembly. There are not enough pieces provided for Item 20 and item 20b does not call for lamination but the white space on item 20 shows it should be. Extra color from the booklet was used for the missing parts.

The fenders show the benefits of the two sided printing provided.

greg

[Don Boose]

Good kit review and excellent initial work on this interesting model. From what I can learn, these were used primarily for mowing grass at Army airfields, but apparently they could also be used as prime movers, as in this 1942 image of an International Harvester tractor pulling a B-25.

Image source: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?t=180055

Don

[modelperry]

Thanks for the background photo. A colleague on FB also posted pictures of an IH tractor submerged with the wreck of the USS Hornet, so they were evidently used there as well.

That reminds me that I had forgotten one thing in my original post, This particular model has generated some interest among my colleagues at work. This is because I currently work at CNHi. The C in the name stands for Case. The NH is for New Holland. Also the Case agriculture tractors are labeled Case IH since IH was folded into the Case brand quite awhile ago.

OK, think I covered the Basic History on this, but any other input from the forum peanut gallery is welcome. Any additional words from Whulsey per chance?

greg

[whulsey]

Hey Greg, just saw this thread. Looking forward to following your build. A couple of versions have been available in 1/35 plastic from Thunder Model. So was sort of expecting it in card. Guess its about time I try to make another order to GPM. I say try since I've been having trouble with getting the credit card accepted for Euro orders.

Here's a basic overview of the VA series: TractorData.com J.I. Case VAC tractor information

and here's a discussion on them with photos of one with a mower as mentioned by Don. https://www.yesterdaystractors.com/c...case&th=157264

[whulsey]

See my post made it. Don't know what happened but the site when away for me for an hour or so.

[Kevin WS]

Don't worry - the site also went down for me as well!

[modelperry]

Thanks Wayne for the history supplement, much appreciated!

Here are the results of my latest efforts.

Lots of parts make for a spindly result.

Of note: the radiator is not glued in yet as the front of the engine needs finished first. Also, I'll have to make and fit radiator hoses via the Mark I eyeball method as there are no patterns for them.

I replaced the paper steering wheel rim with one made from bead wire. I do this often, but don't always indicate so.

The seat post wrapped by spring was replaced by evergreen rod for strength. The spring was made from a different gauge of bead wire than the steering wheel rim.

greg

[whulsey]

This is a 1945 VAC but most of the basics are the same. They weren't real popular in this area so don't have many photos of them.

Beading wire really comes in handy.

[modelperry]

Thanks for the reference photos! I think they will all come in handy soon.

Greg

[Kevin WS]

Very nice Greg. The model looks very prototypical!