This week was all about getting properly stuck into the kind of work that rarely looks simple once you start. The team made major progress on our Sd.Kfz.223 Ausf.A (3. Serie), including the clutch change, while also continuing to chase down a couple of stubborn electrical and starting issues. Over on the Wheatcroft Collection Sd.Kfz.223, we reached another satisfying milestone as the project moves ever closer to the finish line.
Weald Foundation Sd.Kfz.223 Ausf.A (3. Serie)
The main focus was access, and anyone who has worked on vehicles like this will know what that means. To reach the engine, we dismantled the rear of the body, turret, and other required parts. It is a strong reminder of how much has to be removed to carry out what sounds, on paper, like a normal job.
Alex then removed the engine and replaced the clutch. This was a great experience for our apprentice, not just seeing the process, but understanding the sequence and care needed to do it correctly. The engine was then refitted and running again in the chassis, which is always a good moment in the workshop.
Alongside the clutch work, we continued addressing ongoing issues. Martin carried out another investigation into the starting motor, as we still had some problems following work completed previously. Steve also continued investigating the charging problem by checking the vehicle’s electrical cabling.
We also followed up on a knocking noise we heard at the We Have Ways Show 2025. Alex stripped down the front right hub to investigate the cause, and with information from original wartime manuals he was able to complete most of the work with minimal help from the team. It was another excellent learning experience for our apprentice, seeing original documentation put to practical use on the vehicle.
What had to be removed for the clutch change and engine access:
- Aerial
- Fenders
- Sump guard
- Exhaust guards
- Exhaust pipes
- Mesh roof
- Turret
- Firewall
- Fuel tanks
- Interior brackets in back
- Rear half of body
- Drain engine cooling system
- Disconnect oil cooler
- Take off fan drive
- Unbolt rear crossmember and bell housing bolts and take out engine
- Change clutch and reassemble
The Wheatcroft Collection Sd.Kfz.223
On the Wheatcroft Collection Sd.Kfz.223, the aerial frame was fitted for the final time, which is a great step forward and a very satisfying job to complete. We are now waiting on a few final parts to finish the internal fittings, and the project is coming to a close very soon.
It will be especially rewarding to see both Sd.Kfz.223 vehicles finished together. They have each had their own challenges and milestones, and bringing them both to completion feels like a real moment to look forward to.
Looking ahead
Next week we will continue working through the starting motor and charging investigations on the Weald Foundation Sd.Kfz.223, while also progressing any follow-on work from the front hub strip-down. On the Wheatcroft Collection Sd.Kfz.223, the focus is on finishing the internal fittings as soon as the remaining parts arrive.
