[russcal]

Hiya Plasticpanzers and everyone else!

It does look a little undersize but I think that is more to do with the lack of all the "doo-hickory" all over a real 113 than the slight size differences noted. Basic interior would require nothing more than the two bulkheads up front, seats, fuel tanks, stowage, etc., should be easy enough. Definately a great base start to some "enterprising" builders for a whole slew of vehicles: M113 ACAV, M132 "Zippo", M577, early TOW carriers, mortar carriers, M901 ITV, Israeli Zelda. Can't wait to see the "definative" running gear and look forward to seeing it a WoH!

Russ
Proud son of Rose and Wes

 

[russcal]

Hiya, Tim, and everyone else!

You say your next vehicle might be a Soviet BRDM... which one? The front engined BRDM-1 or the rear engined BRDM-2? Either one would be sweet! If I may offer a possible vehicle, how about a deuce-and-a-half, either WWII CCKW or later M35? Just a chassis with a cab /fenders / hood would be great. The box is more than easy enough to fab up. Anyway, keep up the great work and look forward to seeing your offerings at WoH!

Russ
Proud son of Rose and Wes

 

[russcal]

Hiya, Tank Mechanic, and others!

Original gas engine in the M113 was the Chrysler 75M, a militarized 360cid small block V8 putting out 209 horsepower. The 360 is actually a larger bore version of the 318cid v8. Chrysler modernized the engine in the 80's, leading to the modular engine series. 2 added cylinders gives you the Copperhead V10 and new heads gives you the current third generation Hemi. Anyway, I recall reading somewhere that FMC had a running gear test bed (a stripped out M113) that had a high performance 440cid big block in it. Now thats a hotrod!

The air defence version with the 20mm Gatling is the M163 Vulcan Air Defence system. Later addition of range-only-radar and automotive improvements led to the M163 PIVAD (Product Improved VAD). There are picture of regular M113's modded with rifle caliber Gatlings used as convoy support during Vietnam. Thats what I call deterrent!

Russ
Proud son of Rose and Wes