can i use a 1/18 sherman chassis to build an M3 Grant on?

[aferguson]

were there any significant differences between the m3 grant's chassis and m4 sherman chassis that would preclude me from doing this conversion? Im not worried about minor things, just significant size/shape differences.

[PanzerArm]

Just off the top of my head, I think dimension-wise they were the same, but you'll run into a little problem with the suspension. The Grant/Lee had the early VVSS suspension, and the sherman made by FOV/21st used the late VVSS suspension. Difference is where the return rollers are located. Early had them on top, late had them on top too, but moved to a more rearward position behind a sort of metal guide horn-thing. See below:

Early:


Late


You may need to have a shermaholic like Gary Binder confirm this, but I think that is the main difference.

-Kevin

[pickelhaube]

That is pretty much it for the running gear . The tracks should be slick with no chevrons.

But you can use the argument that this is an old vet still kicking and needed new shoes.

21st should be the Shermie to use with it's 3 piece tranny cover.

[[CAT]CplSlade]

From my 1/48 days I recall the Monogram Sherman tank came with a diorama detail sheet where they took the older style and rebuilt them to the newer style. Perhaps you could do it in reverse?


PS - Just found it. It is on both of Sheperd Paine's tip sheets for the M4A3 and T-34 Calliope kits. Might be a PITA, but you want it to look correct, right?

[aferguson]

well, i'm not to worried about it. I was more concerned with the hull length and width being the same....major stuff. The position of the return rollers i probably would never have noticed, had it not been pointed out to me.

If it bugs me i'll do the reverse conversion though. It doesn't look overly tough to do.

[plasticboy]

If M3 Grant and Lee appear in 1/18, itz gonna be awesome!

[flyboy_fx]

I'm working on an M3 lee! Well, I better get BACK to working on it.