Vehicles are the most rewarding models to magnetise. Kits often come with several weapon options, and magnets let you swap turrets and sponsons between games instead of gluing one loadout forever. They also make big kits easier to transport and paint.
The short answer: use larger, thicker magnets than you would for infantry (typically 5–10 mm diameter), place them where parts naturally sit flat, and fix them with superglue or epoxy after checking polarity.
Magnet sizes for vehicle parts
| Part | Typical magnet size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main turret | 8–10 mm × 2–3 mm | Centre it so the turret still rotates |
| Turret weapons | 3–5 mm × 2 mm | Place behind the weapon mount |
| Sponson weapons | 4–6 mm × 2 mm | Fit inside the sponson ball or mount |
| Hatches and doors | 2–3 mm × 1 mm | Small, flat magnets on the hinge edge |
| Walker arms | 4–5 mm × 2 mm | Shoulder joints need stronger magnets |
| Flying stand | 5–6 mm × 2 mm | Makes heavy flyers easier to transport |
Why magnetise a vehicle?
It lets you field every weapon option from one kit, paint hard-to-reach areas separately and transport big models in pieces. It also protects fragile parts such as barrels and antennae from snapping in transit.
What size magnets do vehicles need?
Larger and thicker than infantry magnets, because vehicle parts are heavier and handled more. Neodymium magnets of 5–10 mm diameter cover most turrets and weapons. Our guides to magnet sizes and magnet grades explain the trade-offs.
Should I magnetise before or after painting?
Before. Fitting magnets means drilling, gluing and test-fitting, all of which can damage paint. Magnetise during assembly, then paint the parts separately.
How do I magnetise a turret?
Glue one magnet to the centre of the turret ring on the hull and its partner under the turret. Check polarity first by letting the pair snap together, then mark the facing sides. A centred magnet still lets the turret rotate.
How do I magnetise sponson weapons?
Drill or carve a recess inside the sponson mount for a small magnet and fit the partner on the back of each weapon option. Keep every weapon's magnet at the same depth so all options sit flush.
How do I stop magnets from pulling out?
Roughen the magnet surface lightly and use superglue for small magnets or two-part epoxy for large ones. Recessing the magnet into the plastic gives the glue more contact area. See why magnets fall out for more fixes.
What tools do I need?
A pin vice or hand drill with bits matched to your magnets, superglue or epoxy, a hobby knife, and green stuff or plastic card to fill gaps. A marker pen for polarity saves a lot of mistakes.
How do I keep polarity consistent?
Pick one magnet as your master, mark its face, and test every new magnet against it before gluing. Use the same orientation on every vehicle so parts are interchangeable across your army.
More hobby guides
- How to Magnetise Warhammer 40,000 Arms and Weapons
- How to Magnetise Warhammer 40,000 Miniature Bases
- Why Do Magnets Fall Out of Miniature Bases?
- How to Glue Warhammer 40,000 Miniatures
- How to Use an Airbrush for Warhammer 40,000 Miniatures
Warhammer 40,000® is a registered trade mark of Games Workshop Limited. This is an independent hobby guide and is not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Games Workshop.