Steam power? If so, there are two main reasons for 'tall' stacks: increased draft through the firebox;
raising smoke, sparks and soot above the vehicle/vessel. The second wouldn't be a concern in a
rear-boiler tank, but the vulnerability of a tall stack in combat would affect the first, powered blowers
are a better way to maintain/increase draft. The original
Monitor had demountable telescoping
stacks that were used for cruising and picket duty, in combat they were removed and blowers were used
to keep the air volume up.
- Son of Steam Engineer Mode now Off.
A little Fiat 2000 influence, eh?