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Modeller Build Logs
Formations Sherman V DV (M4A4 Direct Vision) |
| By James Wechsler | | Started: | May 21, 2007 | | Updated: | Jul 14, 2007 |
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This blog could easily be subtitled ‘the easy way to do well at model contests’. Having just wrapped up a blog using the Tasca Firefly, I couldn’t believe there was anyway to make an even better Sherman. Then I remembered the Formations has now expanded their line to allow a complete ‘Formations’ Sherman minus only a couple of small parts.
So for this blog I’ll be building a Sherman V with direct vision ports as used by the British in the Burma campaign.
The Formations set that I’ll use are:
F067 Direct Vision M4A4 Hull
F080 Early VVSS Suspension
F018 Sherman Pioneer Tools
F050 Sherman Headlights
F003 Early M4 Dry Stowage Turret
F016 M34A1 Mantlet and M3 75mm Gun
In addition, I’ll be using tracks, sprockets and left over photoetch light guards from the Tasca Firefly.
I’ll also include in this blog a few chapters on ground work and a special ‘Burmese transportation vehicle’ for the base.
Up next: The Hull – major assembly
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| The Hull – Exhaust Deflector | May 26, 2007 |
The Shermans in Burma seem to have all carried the rear exhaust deflector. This can also been seen on European Sherman Vs but its pretty rare. I’m not sure if the conditions warranted this or if this deflector is what remains of the deep wading gear which was used on the Sherman Vs in Burma when they were deployed in amphibious landings along the Burmese coast.
Either way, I had to scratch build this out of 0.015 inch sheet plastic. After a little geometry practice, this part went together pretty easily. Note that there are four prominent screws that stick into the exhaust section where it is bolted to the hull attachments.
I didn’t have any drawings of this system so I made my best guess and I really can’t claim complete accuracy on this part.
Up next: The Hull – The original non-stick surface
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