The Official Armortek Forum - World leader in one sixth scale metal kits

Hi Allan,
Thanks for the note. I agree one can go crazy with detail on these models, which is part of the fun. The Sherman may not have been a very good tank in some ways but the kit is really cool and deserves attention. I'm happy with the alloy deck, my only regret is I waisted too long debating on whether to make it or not! The alloy deck allows for making easy access removable panels a snap vs the large heavy one piece steel top.

Robert,

I made the whole top of my Sherman removable with the top sides, so the hull is left the track level. This makes everything accessible, an essential thing I learnt from the Tiger where the whole top is also removable. I realise that the Sherman wasn't the best of tanks from a fighting and performance point of view but I suppose its main strength was its numbers. As the model goes I think its a really good build that can keep you busy for many months. The basic detail allows for hours of extra work, which to me adds a lot of value as I am one who enjoys going my own way when modelling. I look forward to seeing the completion of your model.

Hi Allan.

Do you not use the panniers for holding things like the 4QDs ?

Or do your pannier bottoms stay with the lower hull ?

Adrian.

Adrian,

The panier bottoms stay with the lower hull and the 4QD's are mounted on them. There are two struts that go across the top of the lower hull to hold the panier bottoms firm and stop them drooping. The upper hull has clips to locate it on the edges of the panier bottoms and the only thing scuring the upper hull is the turret nut that stops the turret coming off as per the Tiger set up.

Heres some photos of the new fenders all painted up. Thanks for looking. -Bob

Robert,

I didn't realise that there was supposed to be a plank of wood between the uprights on the mud guards. I presume its for wading to keep the water from flowing up the front. I just thought that the flanges of metal were stiffners.

Allan,
The plank doesn't especially have to be there. It does make a handy shelf for piling ammo boxes and sandbags onto. I cannot take credit for it - resourceful GI's did it during the war. I added it as a "what if ". I'm debating on having the plank shelf or mounting some spare track in the front location on the glassis. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Regards,
Bob

Hello Bob

Leave the plank there. I think that the sherman looks better with all the ammo boxes and ration boxes on it. Have you got the book on the sherman by Hunnicut? If i manage to pick another Sherman up i would put wood planks down the side of the hull. Keep the Piccies comeing

Lee

Hi Lee, thanks for the "plank" feedback. Still may go with the spare track links on the front, but I agree with you boxes and bags would look great up front. Esp mini C ration boxes. Yum. Don't have the Hunnicut book but I've heard it is very good.

I have a few more pics of some recent but miniscule progress on the rear deck- but progress just the same. Made the lift hook straight then bent it to shape. Machined a slight recess for a weld fillet in the deck plate, placed one fuel filler cap and its gaurd, and installed the tail light gaurd. Hope u enjoy.