M1A2 Abrams
PE Update
Set No. PE 35021
Review by Terry Ashley
This PE update set is designed for the Tamiya M1A2
Abrams (kit
No.352697)
and
like previous Voyager etched sets sees the PE frets enclosed
in a stout cardboard foldout pack that offers good protection for the contents.
The set has five PE frets of excellent finely etched parts with nice relief on the details typified by the excellent effects on floor treadplate and seat back springs with the parts having the usual engraved lines to help with the bending process.
As with previous Voyager etched sets there are different thickness frets for added definition to the parts.
The contents of the set is:This set contains a number of alternate parts for different fit outs but is primarily designed for the Army M1A2.
On the rear hull are new mud guards and mesh covers sometimes fitted to the exhaust louvers as well as the framework for the snorkel which wouldn’t really be used on this version? On the engine deck are mesh covers for all the engine grills as well as new handles for all engine deck panels as well as other smaller fittings/details. Additionally there are the outer ring for the drive sprocket which was more often seen on USMC M1s than ARMY M1s but the option sis there.
The steel wire provided is for the front fender securing spring as well as wipers for the driver’s periscope and additional details on the head lights.
On the turret is a new MG race for the loader’s hatch and mesh for the bottom of the rear bustle storage rack plus all the clips and supports for the steel cable along the turret sides which is provided as steel cable in the set.
The two smoke grenade storage boxes on the turret sides are replaced with etched boxes with separate top and latches/hinges and can be shown open if required but are very well detailed assemblies.
Also on the turret are new mounting brackets for the smoke grenade launchers as well as ammo box details for the Commander’s .50cal and Loader’s 7.62 MGs plus lathes and handles on the inside of both turret hatches.
The instruction sheets have exploded view drawings showing the assembly and placement of the parts which are quite easy to follow but as always study these carefully before assembly.
Another nice set that adds many of the finer details to the kit for good detail definition and while designed for the Tamiya kit many of the detail parts could also be used on other M1A1 or M1A2 kits.
Highly recommended.
See the Voyager Models website for additional details.
Thanks to Voyager Models for kindly providing the review samples.
Page Created 12 June 2004