| Sherman E9 Conversion | TASMODELSHOP Kit #TM041 |
| Article by Doug Chaltry; last updated 15 April 2017 | |
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| Modeling the Sherman Tank in 1/72nd Scale |
| Sherman E9 Conversion | TASMODELSHOP Kit #TM041 |
| Article by Doug Chaltry; last updated 15 April 2017 | |
|
|
| This
set is a first of its kind. The E9 conversion was an
experimental attempt to offset the Sherman's suspension
parts further away from the hull, thereby allowing the
use of tracks with extended end connectors (EECs) on both
the inside and outside of the tracks for improved
traction (by reduced ground pressure). It was developed
late in the war, and there is much controversy and
differing opinions on whether or not this conversion was
ever seen in action. It seems to be pretty well accepted
that several tanks with this conversion were shipped to
Europe in the closing month of the war, particularly for
use with the French armored divisions. But clear evidence
of its use in action is still lacking. See this site for the latest, and most complete information: http://the.shadock.free.fr/sherman_minutia/e9suspension/e9suspension.html
To date, I have only seen people scratch-build this conversion, but now, thanks to Tasmodelshop, we don't have to. The set is composed of the 14 parts seen in the scan above. Based on the instructions below, it looks to be a very straightforward project, with the most time being spent on grinding off the mounting points for the suspension brackets from the plastic kit. New spacers are then added, both for the road wheel suspension bogies and the idler wheels. A spacer is also included to extend the sprocket wheel outwards. Finally, the widened fenders used on these tanks are also included. Note that although this conversion was intended for tracks that had the EECs on both sides (such tracks are available from OKB), apparently, they frequently did not. Photos have shown them to have the EECs mounted on only the outsides, and some with none at all. As the instructions state, this set was designed for the Dragon M4A3 kit, but I don't see why it couldn't be used for most any Sherman kit out there. A variety of Sherman tanks and variants (such as tank destroyers and recovery vehicles) were modified with this conversion. The quality of the parts is first-rate. Some of them were designed with a 3D-printer, and the resin casting is perfect, with no blemishes or deformities apparent on any of the parts.
My thanks to TASMODELSHOP for providing the review sample. |
| Modeling the Sherman Tank in 1/72nd Scale |
