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Forums - Modelling / Construction |
The construction forum is for the discussion of techniques on the construction phase of AFV modelling and the tools and materials used. |
| Topics | 1939 |
| Messages | 9056 |
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| Subject: | Re: Sherman 1943 |  |
| Date: | Aug 20, 2002 |
| From: | Chuck Rothman | |
The Italeri M4A1 is a late M4A1 hull with the wide hull hatches and upswept
return rollers. It is definitely not appropriate for the period you want to
set it in.
The late model M4A1 Sherman was first put into production in January, 1944,
and was not issued to the troops until May (in England). It did not see
action until late July, 1944 in Normandy (just before Operation Cobra). The
late M4A1 Sherman did not make it to Italy until October or November, 1944.
About the only things you can use from the kit to make an early production
Sherman is the lower hull and tracks. The suspension needs to be replaced
with M3 type suspension (return roller on top) or early M4 suspension
(horizontal return roller bracket with no spacer). The upper hull needs to
be replaced (Tank Workshop makes a nice early hull with direct vision
ports), The transmission cover needs to be replaced with a three-piece or
early cast type. The turret needs to be replaced with an early, low bustle
turret with M34 mantlet.
You can probably get all the necessary parts for about $50, so it's still
better than that $70 DML M4A1.
With respect to your specific questions:
1) Is the Italeri M4A1 hull appropriate for 1943?
No - see above
2) Is TW early cast nose appropriate for this timeframe, or would it be
the
three piece bolted?
Either one would be appropriate. Most of the Sicily Shermans were ex-Tunisia
Shermans, which ranged from the very first production models to models with
some production modifications.
3) I was planning on using ADV's M34 turret. TW also offers one, but with
no mantlet or barrel (which CMK offers but fairly pricey). Are there any
others out there that are recommended?
I would recommend CMD, if you can get it. Don't use the CMK barrel - the
diameter is too large.
4) Was going to utilize AFV Club T48 tracks.
More likely solid rubber block (the kit track is nice if you put it in
boiling water to soften it up a bit), although T48 came into use shortly
after the Sicily landing.
5) Are there any glaring errors with the Italeri bogies?
No, apart from the fact that they are wrong for July, 1943.
Apart for the complete lack of cast texture on the hull and turret, and the
step in the barrel (it should be smooth), the Italeri kit is very good (I've
built five of them). The turret shape is a bit off, but it's not that
noticeable. If you want to do a completely accurate late M4A1, use the T23
CMD turret and barrel in place of the kit parts.
Chuck Rothman |
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