halftrackinfo
pictures of your halftrack => post updates on the progress of your restoration => Topic started by: RocnTJ on July 26, 2012, 09:12:44 AM
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Well after searching for one for a long time I finally took the dive and am the new owner of an Autocar M2A1 halftrack. I have used this site for much of my research and thought it was time to post some photos of the newest addition to my collection. I purchased it in Southern Oregon and had a friend of mine transport it down to the Sacramento area for me. Everything went well with the retrieval until it came time get the track from the trailer into my driveway as you can see in the following pictures.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/UnloadingHalftrack.jpg)
Had to unload it in an open area just down the road from my place. This was the only level area large enough to get it unloaded. The track started right up and drove off the trailer ok. Had to use the emergency brake for stopping since the service brakes were not working. Headed up the road to my driveway and the engine begin to sputter and then die. Sure hope no one comes down the road in a hurry to get to work.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/HaltrackDelivery2.jpg)
Well I would guess the reason that the engine died had something to do with the gasoline running out of the carbuerator. No worries I am sure that on't be a difficult fix, but for now I will just grab the tractor and pull it the rest of the way.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/HalftrackDelivery3.jpg)
No problem, on the move again down the road. At least until we turned the corner and headed up my steep driveway.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/HalftrackDelivery4.jpg)
At this point all four wheels of the tractor begin spinning and there was no way that this tractor was going to pull this heavy weight chunk of iron up the driveway. My first lesson learned was that a half track requires much larger tools, trailers, towing rigs and just about everything needed to work on it than the Jeeps and 4x4 trucks that I was used to working on. Now I had a problem, what else did I have that would be heavy enough to tow this beast up the driveway.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/HalftrackDelivery5.jpg)
Well I finally found a good use for my military ambulance. A half track recovery vehicle!
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/HalftrackDelivery7.jpg)
Success at last the halftrack is in position in its new home ready for its restoration. I look forward to sharing progress with you all and hopefully getting some help as I need it along the way.
Tom
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Looks like a nice HT to start with. Keep us posted on your progress.
Steve
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Welcome Tom!
Glad to see your post here. How's your progress doing since we last spoke? Any luck on the pulpit? Looking forward to seeing more photos. It was great seeing you at Camp Gleason and hope you had some fun.
Steve A.
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I have made some progress. My work has been crazy lately and I have been working out of town so I have not had much time for halftrack restoration. Yes Steve A., there is now a pulpit sitting on the ground next to the halftrack. Thanks for the lead. I went in to SC early on a Saturday morning and worked out a decent package deal for it. I took some measurements and it should fit ok. I think it will clean up and look close to original with a little work. I worked a gun cradle into the deal but I think the one I got is a more modern version so I may have to trade it for a period correct one. I need to do some more research on that. There is a lot of learning to do with these machines. Thanks to your help and encouragement and additional help and pointers from Don I am making slow but steady progress. I will post some more pictures soon.
Tom
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Looks good Tom, I had the same tractor problem, but mine was dead on the trailer. I chained the tractor to the half track and the four tires were spinning so I dropped the trailer and chained up the 3500 Dodge and it pulled it off with no problem, then I cut it loose and hooked the tractor back up. It was on flat ground so it should pull it with no problem, wrong, four holes in the yard, back to plan B, I hooked the Dodge back up and finished the job, I guess I need to make it run, that will make it move easier. Greg
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Hey Tom, nice pictures, you embarking on a whole new oddacy :o Glad you made the treck to the Camp! Let me know if you need any pictures and measurements. Keep next July open for the Camp and MVPA Convention in Portland!
Don G.
Oh don't forget Tower Park ;D
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that looks great. :)
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Well I have made some progress since my last post.
Rear bumperettes and steps are done - just need final painting.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/100_0812-1.jpg)
Perimeter Rail is cut, bent and bolted in place. Just need to weld the corners but I wanted to get the floor section fitted in place before doing that so I could tweak the armor if necessary.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/100_0818-1.jpg)
And I have made good progress on the floor. I am building this from scratch so it took me a while to understand how it all fits together but I think I am headed in the right direction. Chain lockers are done. most of the sheet metal is cut and bent and next weekend I hope to get much of it fitted together.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0874.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0872.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0871.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0870.jpg)
I have a couple questions for those of you who have built one of these floors before:
The sheet metal piece at the front with the lip to support the floor plates does it mount flush with the top 1/4" bulkhead at the back of the cab or below it so the floor plates are flush with the top of the bulkhead? I have seen pictures of both.
Do the 2"x2" angles that support the floor extend under the vertical track armor? It looks like they should from a structural standpoint. The few pictures that I have seen seem to indicate that they do.
It seems like they had a poor design for mounting the armor to the frame at the back of the cab. I guess the L-shaped bulkhead is suppose to carry the load of the rear armor through the two panels that mount behind the seats. But it seams like they could have come up with a better design. I see now why they need to weld that support on the right side when they remove the panel on the M2A1 conversion. Otherwise there would be no solid support of the armor at the back of the cab. My track did not have a floor when I purchased it so the armor was sagging badly at the back of the cab.
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I pilfered this picture from some guy named Steve. ;D Does this help?
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-interior.jpg)
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Here's another that might help a little.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-track-armor-detail.JPG)
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Thanks for the additional pictures. From those two shots it looks like the rear floor plates are flush with the top of that bulkhead. That contradicts what I have seen in some other shots and basically confirms that there is probably no one way that all the halftracks were built. Seems like the build standards on these machines were rather loose - probably due to the fact that multiple manufacturers were building them in a wartime environment. It would be interesting to see if the track in the second picture has the reinforcement between that bulkhead and the vertical track armor on the right side. It is missing the extra plate behind the passenger seat.
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From those two shots it looks like the rear floor plates are flush with the top of that bulkhead.
That's correct. The reason they are flush is there is a seat in that spot that is mounted flush with the top of the bulkhead. The one in the second picture is mine. I'm still working on it and have a long way to go. I'll post up some more pics for you if I can find some that help.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-rear-floor-structure4.JPG)
In this shot you can see it is flush. There is also a grab handle mounted to the front side of the bulkhead for the guy riding in the middle seat.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-teardown.JPG)
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/P1010148.JPG)
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/P1010143.JPG)
My impression is if it is not flush iwth the top of the bulkhead its an incorrect repro.
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Thanks for the additional pictures Wayofftrack. Since it looks like you had a fairly intact original floor, can you verify a few dimensions for me. Inside to inside of the vertical track armor - I have 45" the length of the transverse 2"x2-1/8" angle supports under the lower floor - I have 45-1/4".
Additionally I could use some dimensions on the support that runs lengthwise under the upper front floor with the hole for what I understand was an antenna mount? From the pictures I have seen it looks like this piece is u-shaped but I am not sure. Also my understanding is that the formed angle supports welded to the vertical inside of the benches run the full length of the rear floor with a notch out for the cross angle support at the front chain locker. However, some pictures I have seen it looks like these pieces stop at the front chain locker and are welded to the cross angle support - if that makes sense. I could use some help on that also.
Thanks for all the help
Tom
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I will get those for you as soon as i can. The vertical riser for the rear seats were torched out in mine. Here is a shot of the work to replace them.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-rearbedrepairs2.JPG)
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I have an extra tool box door with the latches if you need one.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/blasted-m2bed2.JPG)
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I have an extra tool box door with the latches if you need one.
If shipping is not out of site I will take you up on that offer. Thanks for all of your help and the pictures.
Tom
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Hi Tom, there are also some shims under the cab bulkhead. If you look closely you can see them in this picture.
Clint
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/P1010132.JPG)
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Do the 2"x2" angles that support the floor extend under the vertical track armor?
Yes they do. I'll see if I can get a picture posted up for it.
Inside to inside of the vertical track armor - I have 45" the length of the transverse 2"x2-1/8" angle supports under the lower floor - I have 45-1/4".
45.25 is correct for the transverse angle supports. I don't have my vertical track armor mounted right now. I did at one time to help create a jig for fixing my floor but its disassembled again right now.
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Here is another picture that might help.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/blasted-m2bed4.JPG)
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(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/blasted-m2bed3.JPG)
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I pilfered this picture from some guy named Steve. ;D Does this help?
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/936/medium/m2a1-interior.jpg)
i found that halftrack in Stockton ca and sold it to a guy in canada.
lookin good RocnTJ ..... i looked at the 2 m2 beds i have her to see if i could help you out with some pics but they have mods to them.
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Made some good progress this weekend.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0884.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0883.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0881.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0880.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0888.jpg)
I need some help with some more measurements:
What is the distance from the inside verticle face of the left bench to the right bench in other words the width of the walkway? I am guessing around 22"
What are the dimensions of the access door to the front chain locker?
What are the dimensions of the small fixed piece of the top of the bench on both sides at the rear? It looks to me that these two pieces are welded to the angle piece that is bolted to the rear verticle armor.
What are the dimensions of the u-shaped support under the front floor plate? Is it 16 GA or 1/8" ? Also is that an angle piece supporting the other side of the front floor plate?
Thanks for the great pictures by the way. They were very helpful.
Tom
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What is the distance from the inside verticle face of the left bench to the right bench in other words the width of the walkway? I am guessing around 22"
Yep 22"
What are the dimensions of the access door to the front chain locker?
19 7/8" by 7"
What are the dimensions of the small fixed piece of the top of the bench on both sides at the rear? It looks to me that these two pieces are welded to the angle piece that is bolted to the rear verticle armor.
Is this is piece that has the rectangular cutout in it for the fuel line? It is 10" x 5 5/16"
What are the dimensions of the u-shaped support under the front floor plate?
Is it 16 GA or 1/8" ? Is this the piece the support pole for the ring bolts to?
Also is that an angle piece supporting the other side of the front floor plate?
Not sure about this last question.
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Quote
What are the dimensions of the u-shaped support under the front floor plate?
Is it 16 GA or 1/8" ? Is this the piece the support pole for the ring bolts to? No there are two supports running lengthwise under the front most diamond plate floor plate. One is u shaped I think and the other is an angle I am guessing 1-1/2" x 1-1/2". These two pieces support the sides of the front floor plate.
Quote
Also is that an angle piece supporting the other side of the front floor plate? See Above explanation
Not sure about this last question.
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Thanks for all of your help Wayofftrack,
Sorry to keep asking questions but maybe you could also confirm a couple more dimensions for me:
the floor plate between the two chain lockers I am guessing 24" by slightly less than 22"
The floor plate behind the rear chain locker - I am guessing 17" by slightly less than 22"
Also if you could let me know what the size of the cutout is where the fuel line goes through the bench top
Your help is greatly appreciated.
Tom
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Ok i understand what you need now. I'll get the rest of the stuff for you as soon as i can. There is also a reinforcement plate that the pole for the ring mount attaches to. On M2A1 field mods its made out of 3 pieces and bolted to the inside of the vertical track armor then the 3 pieces are welded together. Supposedly factory M2A1's have this made from one piece, which makes sense as then it can be installed without either removing the track armor or the front bulkhead. I'm more than happy to help out. Looks like you are doing really nice work.
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As I half watch the Dem convention tonight, I thought I would share a few observations of my half track floor reconstruction project so far. When I purchased this halftrack - my first, the most intimidating aspect of its restoration was the reconstruction of the rear floor. I did a lot of reading and research but it was hard to find any good information on the rear floor. Even most of halftracks that I was able to look at in person had, at best, a cobbled in rear floor section - probably because their owners did not want to pay $7-10K for a new floor and they were unable to find much information on the details of the floor structure to build their own. The turning point for me was when I was able to look at a mostly original and complete floor section that was removed from the track - thank you Steve A. for that opportunity.
One thing that I discovered was that the M2 floor drawings shown elswhere on this site are really accurate for the 16 GA sheetmetal pieces of the floor. All they are missing are the structural components and the floor plates and bench tops. I will try to share what I did in these areas to hopefully help someone else down the road. Contrary to what many of half track suppliers tell you the floor structure is relatively easy to build if you have basic metal working skills and tools. The heaviest metal in the floor section is 1/8" and only about a third of the pieces are longer than 4'. I have an old Whitney combination brake that I bought used on Craigs list that I used to bend many of the pieces.
First off there are three angle pieces that support the bottom of the floor structure. These are 1/8" x 2" x 2-1/8" formed angles 45-1/4" long. Since these will not be seen in the completed floor I cheated and used 2" x 2" x 1/8" angle iron - so far it looks like this should not be an issue other than not matching the original exactly. these can be seen in the next picture.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0674.jpg)
One mounts on either side of the rear chain locker and the third one mounts at the rear of the front chain locker. The front two of these can be seen in the next photo. I have temporarily bolted the chain lockers to these angles so that I can get everything fabbed and fitted and then I will weld them together to match the originals.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0872.jpg)
The next important piece is the cross support at the rear of the front platform. This can be seen in the next picture:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0669.jpg)
This piece was an 1/8" x 1-1/2" x 2" angle 44-7/8" long. This piece also has the ends formed in with a hole that bolts to the vertical track armor. Again since this piece is not exposed in the final product I cheated and used a 2" x 2" x 1/8" angle iron for this piece and I welded a 1/8" x 2" x 2" plate on each end. So far this seems to be working fine. It can be seen in the following picture:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0881.jpg)
The next two major supports are the two angles that bolt to the vertical side armor at the base of the floor under the benches. These two pieces are 1-1/2" x 1-3/4" x 1/8" formed angle approximately 78" long. I again cheated here to save a few bucks and used 1-1/2" x 2" x 1/8" angle iron. This should be a little stronger and and so far has not created any problems. These can be seen in the next two pictures:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0882.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0881.jpg)
The right side of an original piece can be seen in the following photo:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0660.jpg)
The final structural pieces that I will discuss tonight are the two longitudinal pieces that run on top of the vertical bench faces. These pieces are 1-1/8" x 1-1/8" x 1/8" formed angle that are approximately 98" long and run the entire length of the rear compartment. I formed these pieces to match the originals exactly since they will be very visible. These pieces are notched to go over the angle supporting the front platform and the lip of the sheet metal at the front cab bulkhead.
That reminds me that the M2A1 halftrack in the Littlefield Collection which is widely photographed in many references has a very inaccurate reproduction rear floor assembly. This caused me much confusion in my original planning as I was using photos of this track to plan my floor assembly. Hence I have not been too worried about substituting a few pieces here and there that are not all that obvious. It is doubtful that my track will ever be a museum piece so if my floor is 95% accurate I will be happy. You can see these pieces in the above pictures being held in place with the orange c-clamps and below in the original floor running lengthwise above the two grab bars.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0667.jpg)
That is it for now.
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Tom, great job on the floor so far, I'm debating on weather I want to attempt an M2 when I'm done with the M3. Although I'm going to build a wheel vehicle next I think. Looking forward to TP in April. We need to think about another get together.
Don G.
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Hi Tom,
I'll try and get the rest of what you need this afternoon. I think you are doing a great job this should be a good thread for anyone else that needs to build one.
clint
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What are the dimensions of the u-shaped support under the front floor plate?
1" x 2.75" x 1/8" but if 16ga is slightly thicker it could be that too. It is only on the drivers side and has a hole towards the rear that an antenna pole slides thru. In the bottom of the chain locker box is a receiver for the antenna pole.
The square opening for the fuel line is 2" and set in 1" from the outside edge.
the other is an angle I am guessing 1-1/2" x 1-1/2".
This is correct.
The floor plate between the two chain lockers is 21 3/4" x 24 5/16".
The floor plate behind the rear chain locker is 21 3/4" x 16 13/16"
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Tom, great job on the floor so far, I'm debating on weather I want to attempt an M2 when I'm done with the M3. Although I'm going to build a wheel vehicle next I think. Looking forward to TP in April. We need to think about another get together.
Don G.
Thanks Don, when I started working on my M2 I was debating also doing an M3 but I think the wife has convinced me that the only way I am getting another halftrack would be to get rid of her first and I don't think I want to do that. So that pretty much solved that dilemma for me :)
Thanks Clint for the additional measurements.
I did make a little progress over the weekend. Got one of the floor support tabs welded in, fitted two 1"x1"x1/8" angles that frame the door for the front chain locker and got the two handrails fitted up. I used 7/8" tubing for the handrails along with brackets I purchased from Outsider (thanks Steve). Here are some pictures.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0894.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0893.jpg)
With the additional measurements I got from Clint and Steve A. I am going to go ahead and order the final steel that I need to complete the floor and its supports. I will post some more pictures and measurements once I get this steel.
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Great work very impressive. Greg
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Well made some more progress on the floor this weekend. This project seems like it is never ending but it is definitely taking shape and so far I am pleased with how it is looking. Here are some more photos:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0973.jpg)
The access door to the front chain locker is complete and in place with barrel locks.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0971.jpg)
And it opens to provide very limited access to this storage locker. Seems like the design of the front storage locker on the M2 was a bit flawed along with many other features on this model of halftrack.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0965.jpg)
The rear chain locker doors are in place and functioning. The rear floor plate is cut and fit into place. I still need to weld the side supports for it and drill all of the bolt holes.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN0977.jpg)
All of the supports for the middle floor plate are welded in and the plate is bolted in place. The supports for the front platform floor plate are bent and cut and fitted in place under the floor plate. They just need to be welded up and then I can drill the holes for bolts that secure them in place. If anybody has a picture of an original front platform floor plate showing the layout of the bolt holes I would love to see it.
Next step is to tackle the rear of the floor section where it attaches to the rear armor. I have all of the pieces cut and bent just need to start fitting them in place.
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keep up the good work
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Looking good Tom ;D
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Made some more progress this weekend. I am just about done with the fabrication of the rear floor section. Then it will be time to take it all apart, paint it, weld it and reassemble it. (Yuk) I am ready to move on to something new - this floor fabrication has been a tediously slow project.
Here are some pictures of the Pulpit support crossmember that I fabricated.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1099.jpg)
Originally I was going to skip this step and use a reproduction M3 crossmember. However, even though I could make it work I decided it would not meet my 95% accurate criteria. It is the one on the left. The painted one is the one I build while the rusty one is an original that I used to model the new one.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1098.jpg)
I have a few inaccuracies but for the most part I think I got it right. I used coarse threaded square nuts where the original had fine thread. The legs on mine are slightly longer than the original due to press brake limitations at my steel fabricator.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1102.jpg)
Here is a shot of it in place.
And a couple of shots of the finished floor section.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1107.jpg)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1104.jpg)
I will post a copy of the plans with dimensions for the crossmember when I get them cleaned up.
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You are an arteest ;DI hope my floor comes out that good!
Don G.
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Thanks Don, its not perfect but if you don't look too close it should pass for an original. I sure wish I had someone like you around to come over and remove all of the plugs and bolts that I break off :)
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Looks perfect from my house, great job. Greg
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Wow Tom! That's looking very nice. Better than my original I should say. Keep up the good work.
Steve A.
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OK I am jumping ahead a little and am going to fab up the steel for the Ammo boxes. I have a few good pictures for reference but I could use some help with some dimensions. Here is what I have come up with so far for the right hand Ammo locker:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/page0001.jpg)
In case you cannot read them I have the dimensions of 18" long (lengthwise in the track) 26.25" deep from the back of the side armor in and 19.5" high. If anyone could confirm these dimensions for me it would be greatly appreciated. The drawing above is missing the hinges and latch but I have the upper folding door as 8.5" high and the lower one as 10" high with the width of the doors being 24-1/8". Thanks in adavnce for any help.
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Finally had a chance to work on the halftrack some more. I was going to purchase the steel for the Ammo Lockers prefabbed but after doing a little research I decided to build them myself. I think I got them pretty close. Just about done with the sheetmetal work and the rear of the track is beginning to come together pretty good.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1119.jpg)
Left locker from the outside
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1120.jpg)
Right Locker from the outside
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1121.jpg)
Left locker from the rear
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1123.jpg)
Right locker from the front
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1125.jpg)
Left locker with the top door open
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1124.jpg)
Right locker with the folding door opened
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1128.jpg)
Also got the benchtops cut and bent - just need to get the hinges installed and the seat angles welded on
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Outstanding Tom ;D. I'm just heading out to the shop to do some more work on my rear suspension.
Don G.
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Your pictures and parts descriptions are going to be a huge help when I get to assembling the M2 armor, thanks a bunch. Going to have a lot of questions; #1, what gage steel is the deck plate for the rear steps and rear body floor? #2, Is the triangle side support for the rear steps welded to the angled plate in front of the tail lights? got a picture?
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I used 1/8" thick diamond plate for all of my floor plates. That is what I measured on a couple of other tracks and it seems to work pretty good. I am not sure what you are asking about the back steps. I had them off the other day and failed to take detailed pictures of them. This picture may help
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/100_0813.jpg)
These are the White style steps and are not accurate for my track since it is an Autocar. I believe the Autocars had the open ends on them rather than the closed ends.
Give me a better description of what you are looking for and I will try to give you a better picture. The diamond plate step bolts on, the u-shaped bumperette bolts on and the rest of the step frame is welded together and bolts to the body armor. I have not fabricated my taillight mounts yet. They are on my to-do list. Hope this helps.
Tom
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Yes! That answers my question. Needed to know if the side piece of the step was welded to the angled piece, I can see in your picture it is. Thanks Barry
Next question: What are the 2 holes just above the diamond plate of the step for? the ones at the notch.
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Next question: What are the 2 holes just above the diamond plate of the step for? the ones at the notch.
They are for the 30 cal tripod mounting bracket. I don't have a picture of it in place but it looks like the following. It bolts onto the back armor and sits on top of the diamond plate step. I will take a picture of one in place this weekend and post it.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN1031.jpg)
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I have not posted in a while but have made some slow progress on my M2A1. I have been working from back to front.
Rear luggage racks are done including canvas straps:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2569_zpsd4ed10e6.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2569_zpsd4ed10e6.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2570_zps5dfc2ecc.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2570_zps5dfc2ecc.jpg.html)
Have located nearly a complete compliment of mines for the mine racks:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2567_zps857386f6.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2567_zps857386f6.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2565_zpsf95a0dc9.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2565_zpsf95a0dc9.jpg.html)
Had some help over the holidays with a young strong back (my daughter's new boyfriend) so I had him help me mount the pulpit for the first time. I thought it was difficult getting in and out of an M2 to begin with - it is even more difficult with the pulpit in place. More low hanging steel to smack your head on.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2564_zpsf6cb7105.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2564_zpsf6cb7105.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2558_zpseddb9f6c.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2558_zpseddb9f6c.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2566_zpsebe71608.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2566_zpsebe71608.jpg.html)
I fabricated a mount for the Thompson Machine gun:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2572_zps1619fe31.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2572_zps1619fe31.jpg.html)
And I have nearly completed the dash:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2563_zpsd620b759.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2563_zpsd620b759.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2562_zps826585e0.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2562_zps826585e0.jpg.html)
The engine compartment still needs work :(
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2568_zps7e389766.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2568_zps7e389766.jpg.html)
The goal is to have it running in time for Tower Park. Hopefully I make it.
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Looking good Tom!! I look forward to seeing it in April!! I had wished mine would be ready by then...but it won't. :(
-Tom
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Looks really nice. Im waiting for the pulpit armor i ordered from Gary to come in. I hope it comes out as nice as yours.
Art
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Tom looking really good! Glad your getting a chance to work on it. Hope she's ready for Tower Park.
Don G.
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Tom,
Your track is looking fantastic!! It's coming along great now. I hope it will be done in four months for Tower Park. Have you called Matt yet? If not I can try to call him on my end.
Steve A.
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Hey Steve,
I have not called Matt but I can put him to work now. I have most of the body work and electrical done need to focus on getting the engine back together and going through the brakes. Seeing Don's progress has given me inspiration to get my project up and rolling again. Also would love to have the track ready to roll for tower park. It wil be close.
Tom
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Tom,
I called Matt and he is to call you tomorrow. But you are free to call him. Also, are those the mines you got at the convention? Nice.
Steve A.
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Thanks Steve,
Yes those are the mines I picked up at convention last summer. I ended up being 1-1/2 short of a complete set - but close enough for now.
Tom
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RocnTJ
In your dash picture, are the black gages French? or road grader? I have a new set of gages that look like that but are all electric, If I could find out what senders work with them I would use them. Thanks
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The gauges are French.
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Hey RocnTJ,
Great looking track! Where did you find the tripod brackets on the rear steps of your M2A1? I need two pair for ours.
Thanks, KC
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Al Stiefel in Oroville, CA(530)-533-2778. He usually has them at the Tower Park event in April. He doesn't have an e-mail.
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This thread has really helped me as I work on my M2.
What is the sizing on the perimeter rail ???
Possibly 3" down the side - 3" across the top, and 1" bend over ? ? ?
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Tom,
How is your progress? Did you get the engine started yet?
Steve A.
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Today will hopefully be engine startup day. Keep your fingers crossed.
Tom
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Did she start????????? ??? Hope she did Tom!
Don G.
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It started and ran briefly. I have a fuel delivery problem that requires some more parts. Hopefully tomorrow I will have better luck.
Tom
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Well its been a while since I posted on progress but considerable progress has been made. My latest project was fabricating a set of spare headlight holders. I am happy with the result.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2992_zps338a386b.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2992_zps338a386b.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2996_zpsd929e973.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2996_zpsd929e973.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2989_zps7f3b5481.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2989_zps7f3b5481.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2988_zpsfd0548c4.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2988_zpsfd0548c4.jpg.html)
I cut and bent enough pieces to make another set if anyone is interested. The main pieces were relatively easy to fabricate, however, the little spring clips that hold the light on the square tube were time consuming. I used an original light holder from an M3 as a template.
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Here are some shots you may all enjoy. They are from the Littlefield auction last summer. Definitely one of the highlights of my year. Not often that you get a chance to sit in a Panzer Tank and a big German Halftrack.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2764_zps250fe6f3.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2764_zps250fe6f3.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2758_zps92b8c90c.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2758_zps92b8c90c.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2751_zpsf0b61db3.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2751_zpsf0b61db3.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2769_zpseab819bd.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2769_zpseab819bd.jpg.html)
That German halftrack was massive. Much larger than my little M2A1. It even made the tanks look small.
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Hi Tom . looking good, I would be interested in the light holders. Wish I could have made the auction
Don G.
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Made some more progress on detailing the halftrack. Made some fuel line guards thanks to Steve A. for providing a template.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3107_zps8d5e0eba.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3107_zps8d5e0eba.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3098_zpsce6b7e10.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3098_zpsce6b7e10.jpg.html)
I made some extras if anyone is interested let me know. They were easy to make so I made several extra sets.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3096_zps4803f395.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3096_zps4803f395.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3097_zpsfc8c2684.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3097_zpsfc8c2684.jpg.html)
I made the 3/4" angle pieces that hold the seat cushions in place.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3105_zpsbda3312d.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3105_zpsbda3312d.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3106_zpsfb4d9208.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3106_zpsfb4d9208.jpg.html)
And I made the rectangular steel piece that mounts to the front floor and serves no apparent purpose - thanks again to measurements provided by Steve A.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3104_zps67041eaf.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3104_zps67041eaf.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3103_zpsf394981c.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3103_zpsf394981c.jpg.html)
Last but not least ran the antenna cable into the radio chest.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3110_zps16f5fce0.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3110_zps16f5fce0.jpg.html)
Nothing exciting but just working on getting details finished up. Upcoming projects include installing a new carburetor, installing the coil box, putting new bumpers on the hood latches, and running the power cables from the battery to radio power distribution box under the rear bench seat. Will have some pictures of these upgrades soon.
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What are you using for your hood latch bumpers?
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I had that channel looking piece on mine by the gear shift. I thought it was incorrect. So I mounted it to the bottom of the plate.
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What are you using for your hood latch bumpers?
I am trying 1" leather discs to see how they work. I used a slotted screw to hold them on for now until I figure out how to get a rivet installed. They don't look too bad.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3128_zpskl4gbmkv.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3128_zpskl4gbmkv.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3127_zps7thgcrhx.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3127_zps7thgcrhx.jpg.html)
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Took some photos in the yard to send to the insurance company. Starting to look like a real halftrack now.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3116_zpsw81w7zwp.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3116_zpsw81w7zwp.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3117_zpsxypodthf.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3117_zpsxypodthf.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3118_zpswkbyzpbb.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3118_zpswkbyzpbb.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3119_zpszy2j4fp9.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3119_zpszy2j4fp9.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3121_zpskb53dawa.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3121_zpskb53dawa.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3124_zpsyloks2c5.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3124_zpsyloks2c5.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3126_zps8zbobw06.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3126_zps8zbobw06.jpg.html)
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She's lookin' great Tom! Bringing her to Tower Park this year?
-Tom
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My track was a BM rebuild. The leather hood pads were held on by brass rivets like the hood welting uses. I won't be near my track for another week, but I could get photos if you wanted or you could check them out at tower park. Hope you bring your track so mine isn't lonely.
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Hey Tom, That is the plan. I need a few things to come together between now and then. But if they do I will have her there. No more clanking in the tracks like last year. I took her out for a cruise today and everything seems to be working good. I am looking forward to seeing you at Tower Park.
Tom
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My track was a BM rebuild. The leather hood pads were held on by brass rivets like the hood welting uses. I won't be near my track for another week, but I could get photos if you wanted or you could check them out at tower park. Hope you bring your track so mine isn't lonely.
My old ones had regular rivets on them and that is what I will probably end up doing. It is just hard to get a rivet in them without taking them apart and I did not want to try that just yet. I have seen a couple of different style rivets in them along with screws so I am sure that there was no one way to do them. I might try the brass hood welting rivets I have a couple of those laying around - I wasn't sure if they would hold up very long with all of the movement on the hood latch mechanism.
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Hat Tom, She looks FANTASTIC!! You've come a long way and done an outstanding job. I can't wait to see it at Tower Park. Also, I didn't know they came with a garage door opener. ;D
Steve A.
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Hat Tom, She looks FANTASTIC!! You've come a long way and done an outstanding job. I can't wait to see it at Tower Park. Also, I didn't know they came with a garage door opener. ;D
Steve A.
Ha! Nice catch. That is to open my front gate when I go for a cruise around the neighborhood. I cannot reach the keypad from the drivers seat and I got tired of climbing in and out of the cab to open the gate.
I will send you an e-mail to see if you still have room in your cabin. I am having hip surgery in late March and may have limited mobility at tower park. I may also be looking for a driver for my track if I am unable to operate the clutch pedal by then. I am sure that will not be hard to find ;D
Tom
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I have been asked by several people where I found the rubber bumpers for my spare headlight pedestals. I used Auveco 4281 bumpers. They are the same diameter but thicker than the originals.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg.html)
You can purchase them here:
http://216.38.6.33/product963.html
Tom
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Looking great Tom! Hip Surgery? Your toooo young to fall apart all ready!
Don G.
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I am having hip surgery in late March and may have limited mobility at tower park. I may also be looking for a driver for my track if I am unable to operate the clutch pedal by then. I am sure that will not be hard to find ;D
Tom
So when do you start taking bribes?!?
All kidding aside, I hope the surgery goes well. See you in a couple months.
-Tom
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Some more small progress....
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3148_zps17j3enph.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3148_zps17j3enph.jpg.html)
Passenger seat bracket - I had to re-fabricate most of this piece but it came out pretty good. The latching mechanism even works.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3146_zps1ppnyshh.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3146_zps1ppnyshh.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3143_zpsncemkw2x.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3143_zpsncemkw2x.jpg.html)
Power box for the radio - power cables from the battery and to the radio are installed.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3144_zpselbtgg9d.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3144_zpselbtgg9d.jpg.html)
Power and control cables to radio are routed.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3145_zpsfotfgfhz.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3145_zpsfotfgfhz.jpg.html)
Interphone control box is mounted under dash and microphone is plugged in.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3149_zpsncykaggy.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3149_zpsncykaggy.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3151_zpswsoxa7xd.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3151_zpswsoxa7xd.jpg.html)
Coil box is mounted to firewall. It is nice to have the coil permanently mounted rather than strapped to the overflow tank mounting bracket.
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Getting the old girl prettied up for tower park next week. Finally got around to painting stars and hood numbers. Good news is the hip is greatly improving by the day. I am able to walk with a cane now and have devised a method of getting in and out of the half track using the right leg and my arms. Although I will not be 100% will be good enough to enjoy tower park next week. yeah!!!!
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3157_zpsyfin5vez.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3157_zpsyfin5vez.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3156_zpsxfkznhed.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3156_zpsxfkznhed.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3155_zps3lssob1a.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3155_zps3lssob1a.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3158_zpsg6npilon.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3158_zpsg6npilon.jpg.html)
Pictures are not too good because the sun was shining in the shop door and I could not get a good angle. Should be able to post some action shots next week if all goes well.
Tom
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Looking good Tom! I was able to finagle some time off and will be on my way up on Tuesday. I'll swing by for a bit in the afternoon, but prob heading up to Sac on Wed to take my son to the Train Museum, then hitting up Tower Park on Thursday and Friday. See you there!
-Tom
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Looking good Tom! I was able to finagle some time off and will be on my way up on Tuesday. I'll swing by for a bit in the afternoon, but prob heading up to Sac on Wed to take my son to the Train Museum, then hitting up Tower Park on Thursday and Friday. See you there!
-Tom
Tom,
If you need a place to stay I have plenty of rom in the cabin.
Steve A.
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Tom,
Are you going to join the convoy to A&W on Thursday?
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Looking Good Tom! Sorry not going to make it down to TP this year, too many irons in the fire and family obligations. I'm sure Steve and the other Tom will keep you entertained! I'll miss seeing you guys!
Don G.
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Tom,
Are you going to join the convoy to A&W on Thursday?
The other Tom and I are planning to go. I wonder if the Izzy halftrack will join us.
Steve A.
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Don,
Sorry to hear you are not going to make it to TP. I will be in Eugene in June for my daughters graduation - hopefully we can hook up then. I have a couple of pedestal light holders for you.
Tom,
If the HT is running good and I can line up a driver I would love to do the A&W run on Thursday. Steve told me he is up for it too.
See you next week.
Tom
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Loading up
[attachment deleted by admin]
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Nice Dennis…see you there!!
-Tom
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Sitting in the trees waiting to be loaded up.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3166_zpskwqknnef.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3166_zpskwqknnef.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3164_zpsyt8axukg.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3164_zpsyt8axukg.jpg.html)
Hopefully will be on the road to Tower Park first thing in the morning. Thanks to Steve A. for helping me prep the halftrack for the move today. You shouldn't be alone for long Dennis :-)
Tom
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I had a great time helping Tom with his track. I think he enjoyed someone else driving for a change. ;D Tower Park here we come!! Her is a proud owner and his track.
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/500/medium/20150420_154954.jpg)
I enjoy helping others and in a way I learn by helping them. This year I've had the pleasure of helping four new owners and visited a few a few months ago and the past November. Keep up the great work on your tracks. Remember, Friday at Tower Park, noon, is the halftrack get together at my cabin, 366. I think this is our 4th year. Looking forward to seeing everyone.
Steve A.
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Great work on the half-tracs guys. I will be there in spirit.
Best wishes.
Kevin Lockwood
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I'll be there tomorrow (Wed) morning.
Dennis
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RocnTJ, That is exactly what I want my haftrack to look like when it's done (except the A1 part). Saved your pictures to make sure it does, very nice.
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Picked up a 1917 Tripod and cradle at Tower Park this week. I had been looking for one of these for a long time. Mounted it on the back bumper today.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3194_zpsp8rhrilq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3194_zpsp8rhrilq.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3195_zpstezdf4lr.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3195_zpstezdf4lr.jpg.html)
Tight fit behind the luggage racks but I think it really adds to the look. Now peole will not have to ask me what the brackets on top of the rear step were for ;)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3196_zpsir2t5ezo.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3196_zpsir2t5ezo.jpg.html)
Also got a nice 30 cal cradle in the deal. Now I just need a water cooled 30 Cal machine gun to mount on it.
Tom
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I have been asked by several people where I found the rubber bumpers for my spare headlight pedestals. I used Auveco 4281 bumpers. They are the same diameter but thicker than the originals.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN2994_zps35fa5a59.jpg.html)
You can purchase them here:
http://216.38.6.33/product963.html
Tom
Were the rubber bumpers really $21/ea?
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$21.00 for a box of 25 I believe.
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Aaahhh, I see. Should have looked at the catalog listing better.
-BREAK-
Tom, do you have any left out of your box that you want to sell a guy??
Thanks, Tom
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Tapper02
I used all of the ones that I had. I am in the process of making a couple of more light holders so will have to order another box down the road. If you are not in a hurry for them I would be glad to sell you some.
I finally got around to installing the vent tubes that I purchased from Steve A. in June. They fit perfectly and look great.
Here is the passenger side:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3370_zpsuzv05tjp.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3370_zpsuzv05tjp.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3371_zpsepgmhtcw.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3371_zpsepgmhtcw.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3372_zpst38howhc.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3372_zpst38howhc.jpg.html)
And the Drivers Side:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3373_zpscsz0rzuh.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3373_zpscsz0rzuh.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3374_zpsxaxaxljh.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3374_zpsxaxaxljh.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3375_zps9ya053a1.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3375_zps9ya053a1.jpg.html)
The engine compartment is filling up. Thanks Steve these are a great addition.
Tom
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Looking nice now when you get time swing by and work on mine
Will supply steaks and beer but hoy have to make it out here.
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Tom,
The vents look great! If anyone wants a set I have two ready to ship. They are $650 and includes shipping.
Steve A.
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Added a new accessory to the half track. A Ben Hur Trailer.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3393_zps2zptgbk5.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3393_zps2zptgbk5.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3395_zpsenwnxdzb.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3395_zpsenwnxdzb.jpg.html)
Half track is all loaded up to go to the Sacramento Air Show tomorrow.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3397_zpstoqpafvd.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3397_zpstoqpafvd.jpg.html)
I am going to display the trailer with the half track. It will be the trailers first show. I still have some more work to do on it, but it is close enough to being done that I can start displaying it at shows.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3398_zpsfs8rhxe4.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3398_zpsfs8rhxe4.jpg.html)
I will try to get some better pictures tomorrow. The sun was starting to set when I took these and there was a lot of shadows.
It is a tight fit with the luggage racks down. It looks like the racks may hit the trailer in a tight turn. I will have to do some testing tomorrow.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3400_zpsnofz0kw8.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3400_zpsnofz0kw8.jpg.html)
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Looking great Tom! The trailer is sweet!
Don G.
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Nice Tom! Can't wait for mine to get finished...that's the first accessory I'm going for. Then in 100 yrs when I've saved enough, maybe a 75 pack-how. :)
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The trailer looks great. Its nice to see a nicely equipped halftrack.
Gary
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Tom,
Your halftrack if looking great and so is your Ber Hur trailer. That will be my next project after my halftrack is done is getting my M10 trailer in shape. Looking forward to seeing it again at Tower Park. ;D
Steve A.
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Had a Chance to display my halftrack at the California Capital Air Show this past weekend. Here are some pictures:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3413_zpsoepqvjrf.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3413_zpsoepqvjrf.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3410_zpsaqyspzms.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3410_zpsaqyspzms.jpg.html)
Locked the doors to keep the rif raf out - no one figured out how to unlock them :-)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3412_zps2tuhxjkb.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3412_zps2tuhxjkb.jpg.html)
Joined my fellow Foothill Vintage Jeep buddies at the event. I am the only one without a WW2 Jeep. They enjoy having me in the group.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3406_zpsqlzav21r.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3406_zpsqlzav21r.jpg.html)
They had a B-17 at the event. Wonderful old warbird.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3407_zpsikbqozn2.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3407_zpsikbqozn2.jpg.html)
I got to climb up inside for a small donation. It always amazes me how brave the young airmen must have been to fly these paper thin planes over Germany during the war. It must have been a terrifying experience. Definitely no creature comforts in these old birds.
Tom
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Took the Half-track to a WW2 remembrance event this morning. My transport vehicle bailed out on me 15 minutes before he was scheduled to pick up my track. The event was only 15 miles up the road in Auburn so I went ahead and drove the track on the backroads to the event. That was a bit of an adventure but I pulled it off with no major issues. Here are some pictures of the event:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3458_zpsgrexeru2.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3458_zpsgrexeru2.jpg.html)
Parked next to a kubelwagon. That was pretty neat!
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3455_zpshdncq59u.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3455_zpshdncq59u.jpg.html)
Got to have the USO girls pose in my halftrack - neater yet!
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3449_zpshovxaioy.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3449_zpshovxaioy.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3467_zps5kbmmnsr.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3467_zps5kbmmnsr.jpg.html)
Funny how the girls always gravitate to the Jeeps :-( I had two girls in the track while my buddy with the Jeep jammed in all five. I guess I am going to have to add a Jeep to my collection.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3459_zpsizfmjvu8.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3459_zpsizfmjvu8.jpg.html)
It was a fun event. Lasted from 8:00 AM until noon. Got a free pancake breakfast for attending and got to watch the Satin Dolls sing and dance with their band. They did 40's music and simulated an old USO show. Answered lots of questions about the half track.
After I got home I went and got a much overdue haircut at a local barber shop. The barber asked me what I did today. I told him I took the halftrack to a WW2 event up in Auburn. He said OMG was that you driving a halftrack down Auburn-Folsom Road at 6:30 AM this morning? I said it sure was and explained to him that my transport had bailed on me at the last minute. He said I was riding my motor scooter to work and when I passed you I was so shocked to see a halftrack driving down the road that I almost drove off the road into the ditch. I told him I was happy I did not cause him to incur personal injury. We both laughed and he asked me if I would drive it to his shop next time I came to get a hair cut. I told him I would see what I could do. Never a dull moment when you drive a halftrack around town.
Tom
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great pics tom
we may need to start a section here for pics of halftracks and hot girls ;D
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So you show those to Carmen yet??? Yeah we're all jealous ;)
Don G.
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I invited the wife to join me at this event and she chose not to - she had more important business to tend to. I warned her that the half track is a chick magnet and that I could not be held responsible for what might happen in her absence. She thought that assertion was quite humorous and said she was not concerned. Afterwards, I showed her the pictures of the girls in the halftrack at the event and told her I was not joking about the half track being a chick magnet. Unfortunately she still did not express much concern .................... LOL
Tom
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;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yeah I just spewed my drink all over my computer!!!!
Don G.
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Too funny! Next time, get a pic with them AND you with the halftrack!
Hey, what is the crate on top of your windshield armor? That's new.
-Tom
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having a halftrack is like being in a rock band (or not ;D ;D)
i have found that with the tanks i have you can only impress kids and old guys ???
i have some pics of a topless girl on a halftrack but i need to check with the guy that sent them to see if i can post them.
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Drove the halftrack in the Auburn, CA veterans day parade last Wednesday. I was with 10 other WW2 jeeps from our vintage Jeep club. I had two veterans ride with me - one from Vietnam and the other from the Korean War. They had a blast manning the machine guns and talking to everyone along the parade route.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3505_zpskrngzoq5.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3505_zpskrngzoq5.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3507_zpsyeaipsjo.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3507_zpsyeaipsjo.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3509_zpsl445lyed.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3509_zpsl445lyed.jpg.html)
A Korean War Vet manning the 50 Cal
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3510_zpsuamar2ya.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3510_zpsuamar2ya.jpg.html)
The mystery driver...........
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3511_zpszkfsrm2o.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3511_zpszkfsrm2o.jpg.html)
The water cooled 30 Cal on the back is my latest edition. A Christmas present from the wife that I got to open early and use in the parade.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3515_zps1oj1srjv.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3515_zps1oj1srjv.jpg.html)
Here is a link to a video of the group in the parade.
https://youtu.be/7GI1Gm81qBg (https://youtu.be/7GI1Gm81qBg)
The halftrack was the back drop for numerous photos at the end of the parade including Cub Scout Pack 787.
It was a great day. I was proud to be able to honor our veterans and provide parade viewers with an opportunity to see an old war horse in action. Great turnout for a Wednesday. Enjoy.
Tom
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I was asked to post some pictures of my guns and the mounts showing some of the different mounting options that were used on halftracks during the war. I am not an expert on guns and mounts but will describe what I know about each one. Others can fill in the details. I will start with the water-cooled 1917 .30 Cal machine gun.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3522_zps9xue71yk.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3522_zps9xue71yk.jpg.html)
M1917 30 Cal mounted on a 1917 cradle on the rear socket of the halftrack. This would have been a popular early war setup.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3523_zpsfkobooiq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3523_zpsfkobooiq.jpg.html)
This cradle does not have a tray for the ammo can. You must use the .30 cal ammo can with the mounting tab on the end. Alternatively you can also use a wooden ammo box with the slots cut in the sides.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3524_zpsrfnfcxex.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3524_zpsrfnfcxex.jpg.html)
Another angle - the water hose would take the heated steam off the barrel and condense it in a water can. I have not seen any pictures with the hose in place on a halftrack. However, it would not be hard to do as the condensing can is mounted to the straps on the back wall.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3534_zps9hvrzzct.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3534_zps9hvrzzct.jpg.html)
Final shot of the 1917 .30 Cal mounted on a 1917 cradle. This cradle also mounts on the 1917 tripod which is carried on the back bumper.
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Next I will show some pictures of the 1919 A4 Air Cooled .30 Cal MG mounted on a 30/50 cradle mounted in the drivers side socket of the halftrack.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3525_zps93phxntl.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3525_zps93phxntl.jpg.html)
The 30/50 cradle will accept either the 30 Cal MG or the 50 cal MG. It has an ammo tray that will accept both sizes of ammo cans. No special ammo cans required.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3526_zpspt8pq7lo.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3526_zpspt8pq7lo.jpg.html)
These cradles are easier to find and less expensive than the 1917 cradle shown in the previous pictures.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3528_zpsd0uwmn4u.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3528_zpsd0uwmn4u.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3533_zpsdsyrg54w.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3533_zpsdsyrg54w.jpg.html)
My research tells me this cradle setup was commonly used throughout the war.
Next I will show some shots of the .50 Cal M2HB mounted on a M49 ring mount in the pulpit over the passengers seat.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3536_zpsrtid7ggq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3536_zpsrtid7ggq.jpg.html)
This again is a 30/50 cradle with a redi-box mounted to it rather than the tray and the ammo can.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3530_zps6yeakcrq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3530_zps6yeakcrq.jpg.html)
The carriage mount which carries the cradle around the ring mount requires a long-pintle cradle compared to the more common short pintle cradles which will fit in the three sockets on the sides and rear of the halftrack.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3529_zpsjiqf0czf.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3529_zpsjiqf0czf.jpg.html)
The hoses are for the gas gun mechanism which I am still in the process of installing.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3531_zpsxtn1q3xy.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3531_zpsxtn1q3xy.jpg.html)
This redi-box ammo can was designed to fit on a long-tailed cradle which is extremely difficult to find. I had to build some brackets to mount it on here. So this is probably not an authentic setup.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3538_zpswcnjjuzl.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3538_zpswcnjjuzl.jpg.html)
This is the cheapest and easiest method of mounting a machine gun on your halftrack.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3537_zpsguxhhzyh.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3537_zpsguxhhzyh.jpg.html)
I hope these pictures help answer some questions regarding gun mounts on a halftrack. Like I said earlier I am not an expert on gun mounts so if I said something incorrect hopefully another member will correct me.
Tom
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Tom,
Thanks for posting and explaining the different mounts.
Steve A.
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Nice pictures, thanks for posting
Gary
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Tom
Much thanks. I have been taking a crash course on mounts from COL Halftrack (among others) and your post with photos and corresponding description of the types of mounts, really just brought it all together.
I had purchased last year the "cheapest/easiest way" for the side/rear from Al Stiefel - three cast sockets, brackets and the gun cradle. But since speaking with Col Halftrack, Steve1973 as well as going over your posts, I realize that wont work for my 1917 water cooled .30 cal. I can keep the bracket and cast socket, but will need to get the correct cradle. Looks like I have so more money to spend. And then I still get to look forward to finding a M49 ring/trolley and cradle for the ma deuce.
Again thanks and well done on the war wagon.
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Happy to help out. Others on this forum helped me out a lot during my restoration so I am glad I could do the same. Let me know if you need to see anything else.
Tom
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Well my brother is out visiting for a week so he helped me finish a couple of long awaited projects on the half track. I finally painted the bumper numbers on my track. I chose 2nd Armored - 41st Infantry because I saw several pictures of half tracks with this unit number fighting in Bastogne and on into Germany late in the war. I am restoring my half track into one that would have fought in Europe late in the war. Let me know what you think.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3539_zpssgmghu0e.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3539_zpssgmghu0e.jpg.html)
Front bumper. Also painted the bridge weight class on the right fender and the antifreeze status on top of the radiator.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3541_zpslakpcqg4.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3541_zpslakpcqg4.jpg.html)
The rear bumper.
Also added a couple of decals to the doors to add some color. Not original but I wanted to show the organizations that I belong to.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3544_zpsciss2ife.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3544_zpsciss2ife.jpg.html)
My Central Coast Oregon Club decal and a 2nd Armored decal.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3542_zpsrkltds8d.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3542_zpsrkltds8d.jpg.html)
Waiting on a MVPA decal to add to the lineup.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3544_zpspjd9dtss.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3544_zpspjd9dtss.jpg.html)
Getting closer to being 100% done :)
Tom
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Looks great Tom. Hope mine will look that good one day and be that well dressed.
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Looks great Tom! Looking forward in seeing it in April at Tower Park. I hope to get a ride to A&W again. ;D
Steve A.
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Definitely, wouldn't miss the A&W run. Should be in top form at tower park. Maybe I can drive this time
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Looking good Tom!!
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Tom,
Looks great with all the equipment on it. The brass on the 1917 is a little to shiny ;D.
Gary
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Thanks for the compliments. Gary you are right it was blinding me when I took the picture. LOL. Will have to work on getting it weathered a little.
Tom
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Tom
Bumper numbers look great. 3rd Bn 41st infantry was the Infantry battalion in our Armor BDE and my company routinely task organized with them in the 90's. It was with that Task Force that I deployed for my first tour overseas in '92. It's always great to see those bumper numbers on any combat rig. Brings back some good memories. Well done
Where did you get the stencil for the 8 ton bridge marking? That looks perfect.
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Thanks for sharing the info Pat. The stencil came from Rick Larsen. Be careful what paint you use when painting the stencils. I found the rust oleum spray cans work good. I ran out of semi gloss black when I was painting the bridge marking and used some engine paint I had sitting on the shelf. It wanted to pull up when removing the paint mask really bad. I had to do some brush touch up to repair it. Up close it does not look as good.
Tom
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Took my half track out to do some off-roading this past weekend with the NRG group. Here is a video of our group leaving camp.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAChyLqcVKk#t=10 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAChyLqcVKk#t=10)
Had a great time and the track performed flawlessly. I even had to pressure wash the mud out of the tracks when I got home.
Tom
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Awesome! Looks like fun!!
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Picture of my Track at its last outing. First time it has had mud in the tracks ;D
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3585_zpshe8ruh0o.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3585_zpshe8ruh0o.jpg.html)
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My latest Project - Fire Extinguisher restoration.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3598_zpsc5dfynvp.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3598_zpsc5dfynvp.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3600_zpsc7zseep9.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3600_zpsc7zseep9.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3597_zpsvx8hdz22.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3597_zpsvx8hdz22.jpg.html)
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3596_zpsksd6muaj.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3596_zpsksd6muaj.jpg.html)
I got a slight wrinkle in the decal that I could not get out, but other than that I was happy with the result. I decided to stay with red rather than OD. There seems to be a debate on the proper original color but I thought it just seemed right to have the fire extinguisher red plus it adds a little more color to the inside of the track ;)
Tom
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I want one, Looks great.
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Nice job Tom...I agree with you on the color choice.
-Tom
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Looks great Tom. Is that the decal I sent you? Where did you get the one on the back? Is yours charged? I had no problem getting mine charged.
Steve A.
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Thanks guys. No I made the decals myself from another co2 extinguisher I had. I used your decal to scan the little hand holding the extinguisher picture then photo shopped it in. I have some extras that I can give to you.
Tom
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New Canvas Top.
The last big missing piece in my halftrack restoration was the canvas top. I had contacted all of the major canvas suppliers in the US and none of them were interested in making a top for an M2-A1 halftrack. Generally they did not want to deal with the pulpit as apparently there are several different versions of pulpits in the halftrack community.
I then turned my search to the UK which apparently has several military canvas manufacturers. I first contacted John and Mary Worthing who had previously supplied a very nice canvas cover for my Ben Hur Trailer. They told me that they did not do halftrack canvas. Next I contacted Jim Clark at Allied Forces Canvas. Their website is
http://www.milweb.net/go/alliedforces/ (http://www.milweb.net/go/alliedforces/)
I e-mailed Jim and he said that they indeed did produce M2A1 canvas tops. He thought they were about the only canvas supplier that had the pattern for the M2A1. It took me several months of waiting to final get my top into production, apparently they have a large backlog of orders. Once they started working on my top Jim had me confirm all of the footmen loop locations as well as the antenna location to ensure that the top would fit properly. Our goal was to have the top ready for the Tower Park event which I planned to show my halftrack. Unfortunately the top arrived the day after I moved the halftrack to Tower Park, but I was able to drive home and pick it up and have it on the halftrack in time for Friday's heavy rains.
The following are some pictures of the top:
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3672_zpsmds6cmvn.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3672_zpsmds6cmvn.jpg.html)
Here is a side view of the top installed on the halftrack. The side windows are NOS from David Yamulla
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3673_zps7vadyotb.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3673_zps7vadyotb.jpg.html)
Here is a close up showing how the straps attach to the footman loops.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3674_zpsodcvljek.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3674_zpsodcvljek.jpg.html)
Here is a close-up showing how the top fits around the pulpit.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3675_zpseammeren.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3675_zpseammeren.jpg.html)
Here is a close-up showing how the window canvas connects to the lift-the-dot connector mounted in the side armor just ahead of the doors. It was a challenge getting the canvas behind the mirrors and onto the pin but there is room to make it work. If you are installing mirrors on your track you need to make sure there is clearance for the window canvas if you plan on using it.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3676_zpsd0aq0njm.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3676_zpsd0aq0njm.jpg.html)
Here is a picture with the side rear window unzipped and rolled up. Although it would be possible to use the guns with the top installed it would be challenging to get a good aim as there is very little clearance over the top of the gun.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3677_zpslqzyrcml.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3677_zpslqzyrcml.jpg.html)
Here is a shot of the rear window. The vertical strap in the picture is the strap that runs from a loop on the back armor to a loop on the back of the windshield. There are two of these straps that help support the top between the bows. I have a set of these straps designed for an M2 and I need to get the shorter strap for the right side which connects to a footman loop on the back of the pulpit.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3678_zps8izrx87y.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3678_zps8izrx87y.jpg.html)
Here is an overhead view of the canvas top.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3679_zpsmmon6wvq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3679_zpsmmon6wvq.jpg.html)
Two of the attachment straps at the front of the pulpit are longer than the rest to come up and secure the cover around the 50 Cal machine gun. I have discussed the length of these straps with Jim Clark and it appears that they are too long. I will probably shorten the length of these straps and put a new metal ends on them.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3680_zpsmjpeyd1h.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3680_zpsmjpeyd1h.jpg.html)
Here is an overhead shot showing the pulpit canvas rolled back. This allows the use of the 50 cal with the top installed. Many of the WW2 pictures show this cover rolled back with men manning the 50 cal.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3681_zpszizztllq.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3681_zpszizztllq.jpg.html)
Here is a close-up of the pulpit with the cover open. As discussed previously the strap running across the pulpit should fasten to a footmen loop at the back of the pulpit. I need to get a shorter strap and install a footman loop on the back of the pulpit.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3682_zpsnndoo6v2.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3682_zpsnndoo6v2.jpg.html)
Here is a close-up of the pocket for the radio antenna. This pocket is not high enough to cover the antenna base that I currently have installed. I am talking to Jim Clark about making a taller antenna pocket that would cover the antenna base. This is the one measurement that we did not verify. The antenna pocket is zippered to allow the installation of the antenna with the top installed as was the case with the original tops.
(http://i849.photobucket.com/albums/ab51/RocnTJ/DSCN3686_zpsyaw2qltb.jpg) (http://s849.photobucket.com/user/RocnTJ/media/DSCN3686_zpsyaw2qltb.jpg.html)
Here is an overhead shot from the rear.
Overall I am very happy with the fit and finish of the top. It is a very close reproduction of the original tops produced for the M2A1 halftracks. It is very high quality and besides the antenna pocket every thing fit perfectly. I should get many years of use out of this canvas top. Price was right on this top also - a little over $2000 delivered to my doorstep. I am just about ready to call this project complete and start looking for my next one. As mentioned previously it will not be another halftrack. One halftrack restoration is enough for any sane person ;)
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That looks fantastic Tom....bet it feels great to wrap up the project! So are you saying that Don and Kevin are crazy???
Jim Clark is who I plan to go with when it finally comes to getting a top. It's great to hear that he is so interested in making sure the fit is right, verifying measurements in the process. Like you said, there are many variants of the pulpit, both original and repro, not to mention the varied radio/antenna locations depending on the halftrack setup. So kudos to him. I also like the fact that he is interested in making sure you are 100% satisfied with the end product, and is willing to help make alterations for that perfect fit. Says a lot about him and his products. Crossing my fingers that he's still making them in a year or so.
BTW, how was the A&W run this year? Did you get a solid workout with your clutch leg? :)
-Tom
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Hey Tom,
A&W run was awesome. I had the only halftrack this year but we kept up with the group no problem. I drove on the way there and another Tom drove on the way back. It was warm that day and as you know the drivers seat gets very hot on long runs, so I was happy to turn over the driving duties on the trip back. Track ran great. Still had an issue with coolant leaking out around the radiator cap. Not as bad as last year, but enough to cover the windshield. Decided it was the result of a bad radiator cap this time around - working on getting a replacement. Hope all is well with you and your family.
Tom
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Awesome job! You can be very proud. As for my sanity?? My wife works in the mental health profession. I have had all the "tests" ::)
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Thanks for the compliment Col. Halftrack - I appreciate it. I tip my hat to you and Don and all the others who take on multiple halftrack restorations. Not only would my sanity not survive another one but neither would my back, my bank account or my marriage. :o
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Awesome job! You can be very proud. As for my sanity?? My wife works in the mental health profession. I have had all the "tests" ::)
Uh-huh ;D remember some of us have met you! Of course I have NO room to talk! It was great to see you Tom, wish I got to talk to you and Carman more. But I had to run off Saturday and came back with:
(http://www.surfacezero.com/g503/data/3058/medium/Clark.jpg)
Clark CA-1 Airborne Dozer
Yeah......... Kathy was thrilled when I got home, luckily I have a tent!
Don G.
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Tom,
The top looks great and the fit looks good. Now you could go out for a ride rain or shine 8).
Gary
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The top is incredible. Thanks for the photos and the info on where to get one. Didn't think anyone was doing the top for a M2A1.
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Doing the happy dance tonight ;D
In my mailbox was a vehicle registration from the California DMV for a 1942 AUTOC with a vehicle ID of M2441 !
Yes it is possible to register a halftrack in the communist state of California that was purchased out of state on a bill of sale. It does however take a considerable amount of patience and persistence.
I started this process back in early April and just now received the registration. I still have not received the historical vehicle license plates which are apparently being custom made in a prison somewhere.
For those that are so inclined to get their tracks registered here are some tricks I have learned from 4 previous military vehicle registrations and talking to numerous mv owners who have gone through the same process.
1. Find a small town DMV. Go in and explain to them that you want to register an old military vehicle that has never been registered in CA and ask them what you need to provide to do that. They should give you a list of three or four items to Bring in and tell you it is no big deal. If they do not do this search for another DMV. If have had great success at the Auburn DMV registering two vehicles on the first trip in. However, at SF Bay Area DMVs it took me 3-4 trips to get a registration and one vehicle I finally just gave up.
2. You will need to get a VIN verification. If you know a CHP officer who will do this for you that is great. I did not know one and did not want to haul my halftrack to the local CHP office to get a vin verification. This sounded like a death wish for sure so I paid a private vin verification firm to come out to my house and verify the vin for me. I paid this firm $100 for the service but it was money well spent. I was fortunate to have an original data plate with a serial number that matched the one stamped in the frame. If you do not have two matching serial numbers on the vehicle registering it may be more of a problem. I provided the vin verifier published information that indicated my vin was an Autocar I'd built in 1942. I have not had success with the DMV accepting build dates off of data plates or published data. They usually want to indicate a build date of 0000 on the registration because the model year could not be determined. This was another plus of using the private vin verifier.
3. Have all of the required paperwork with you when you go to the DMV. They will try to find an excuse not to register your vehicle so it makes it more difficult for them to do this if you have all of the required documents the first time. I had an original bill of sale, a certified vin verification form, a title search from Oregon DMV indicating that the vehicle was never registered in Oregon, a certified weight certificate, a statement of facts indicating what I knew about the history of the vehicle, it's approximate value and that there were no liens on the vehicle, I also had a few pictures of the vehicle.
4. Only give the DMV what they ask for. I ended up only needing about half the documents I was told to bring in.
5. I got historical plates rather than normal plates. I thought that this might make the process easier but I am not sure that it really mattered much.
6. Call the vehicle a truck with a utility bed or just a plain utility vehicle.
Hope this helps someone.
Tom
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Way to go Tom!!! That is great news.
I was in the same boat with mine being out of state and from Auburn, CA. It was easier for me to register it in California and then do a title transfer in Oregon. When I did mine I needed a VIN inspection which I was able to do in Oregon and send to California, weight certificate, same thing done in Oregon and sent to California. I was very fortunate that the previous owner was willing to help me by making the numerous trips to DMV for me. I got the CA title a few weeks later and took it in to Oregon DMV and did a title transfer and was done in no time. I also went with the historical plates.
Steve A.
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Hi Tom,
When I found your thread, I was keen to have a good look at it.
But all the pictures have become unavailable, on my screen anyway.
I have seen this before as some photo hosts seem to have a use-by date.
Could I ask you to re-post your pictures, please? Yes, this is a big job, but much of your information is difficult without the original pictures to look at.
I hope you are having a nice Christmas season.
Sam.
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Try it again it looks like most of them are still there. Maybe my picture hosting site was down for a while. If you still can’t see them pm me and I can send them to you.
Tom
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For all those working on an M2 halftrack I just wanted to bump this back to the top. This is Tom's M2A1 and he did a fantastic job restoring it. There is a lot of good info in this thread. Start from the beginning. You won't be disappointed. ;D
Steve A.
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Thanks for bumping this Steve. I’ve referred to Tom’s posts many, many times while working on my M2A1. It’s all very good info.
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Thanks for the compliments Steve - I would never have finished my halftrack without help from you and many other members on this site. I would be more than happy to help anyone who has questions concerning the restoration of an M2 halftrack. My track will be at the MVCC meet in Plymouth, CA in April if anyone wants to see it in action.
Tom
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...My track will be at the MVCC meet in Plymouth, CA in April if anyone wants to see it in action.
Tom
I'm thinking about going up there since I can't make MVPA in Findlay in May. I'd love to see your half track in person. As Steve said, there's a lot of good info in your posts and they've been a big help to me. Thanks!
Jon