I hope this is the correct place to ask questions of this nature... I'm building the Academy M4A3E8 and am considering using either a Chesapeake Model Designs or Tank Workshop T23 Turret (the late model) instead of the kit's turret. Does anyone know if these are compatible with the Academy kit?
Post by barkingdigger on Jun 15, 2015 5:26:21 GMT -5
I can't say if it is a drop-in fit (I don't have that turret handy), but I'm sure a little TLC can make it fit. You may need to expand the hole in the hull top, or even reduce it with extra plastic, but generally it will be easier to modify the plastic hull rather than trying to alter the resin turret! I always approach such AM replacements with the assumption that some tinkering will be required...
Thanks for the info! It would probably be better for me, at my current skill level, to figure out how to make the RB M1A2 76 mm gun I have work with the Academy mantlet.
It should be easier to get the RB barrel to work in the Academy mantlet than to use an AM turret, me thinks. The Academy turret isn't that bad, just needs some texture. I'm pretty sure the shape is good. I used it on my recent M1 Super Sherman.
I was able to get the RB barrel mounted pretty easily and "manufactured" a scratch part out of sprue to link the end of the barrel to the kit's backplate. Pretty ugly, but it worked and no one will ever see it! LOL That's one of my first innovations since returning to this hobby and made me feel pretty good. Now, if only I could find a cure for worsening eyesight and sausage fingers...