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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 – Stowage Bins | Jun 4, 2007 |
A number of the Shermans in Burma had one or two stowage bins on the rear deck. These seem unique to the Burma theatre and I can only guess that they were custom made in the local depots. I chose to replicate two bins, one on the left side of the hull and another on the rear deck.
Detail photos don’t seem to be available but there are some decent shots in the book ‘Sherman Tank (Images of War)’ so I used those and some judgment to come up with the design. My basic logic was that these boxes would be designed to not interfere with engine access. So I made the left side one the width of the left sponson. I made the rear deck one fit on the forward access plate with no interference of the mounting bolts and hinges.
Building the boxes was pretty straight forward. I just cut the sides and top out of sheet plastic and glued them together. I scrounged eyelets, latches, and hinges from left over photoetch.
While I couldn’t be sure how the boxes were attached to the hull, it seemed a reasonable assumption that they didn’t use Krazy Glue. So I made a series of small tack welds out of softened 0.010 inch plastic rod.
Up next: The Turret – A change in plans |
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