Beyond The Sprues

Modelling => Ideas & Inspiration => Land => Topic started by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 17, 2014, 06:00:22 PM

Title: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 17, 2014, 06:00:22 PM
M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M41_Walker_Bulldog)

Click on html or image to view Wikipedia article on the M41 light tank. 

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6c/M41-walker-bulldog-tank.jpg/300px-M41-walker-bulldog-tank.jpg) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M41_Walker_Bulldog)

Quite surprised that we have not had a topic on the M41 Walker light tank before now.  Considering how many nations around the world have been using this particular vehicle for a number of years with some still active though the majority by now are retired from service and have been scrapped, turned into artificial reefs, or monuments. 

I have often wondered if the M41 could handle the 17pdr in lieu of the 76mm gun it was manufactured with.  A nice subtle what if by simply changing the gun tube out would certainly be fun. 

Other ideas for a what if M41 would be to arm it with a 105mm howitzer instead of the 76mm gun. 

Another option would be to use a 57mm gun instead of the 76mm? 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: LemonJello on March 17, 2014, 08:17:00 PM
Add side skirts and a more slab-sided turret ala' the M1 and you could have a light/airmobile tank to rival the Sheridan in use with the XVIII Airborne Corps.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 18, 2014, 01:58:26 AM
Some bolt on ceramic armor or explosive panels and some slat armor. Add some boxes around the turret to change its shape. It would make some fun whiffing as the Tamiya kit is pretty cheap.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on March 18, 2014, 05:18:09 AM
Always liked the "feel" of the M-41, irrespective of it's capabilities and limitations. It has a balanced, poised feel to it, much like the Chaffee before it. :)

I'd think a 90mm gun would be high on the shopping list (some countries have done it). If the Panhard ERC-90 armoured car can take the GIAT TS-90 high-velocity weapon, then I can't see the M-41 having a problem.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 18, 2014, 05:27:21 AM
One of my pet peeves with the M41 is the commanders cupola.  It seems to be fixed and does not rotate, I want to see if a different cupola will fit where the current cupola resides.  While the AFV Club and Skybow M41 kits both had separate parts for the cupola and a rather round hole where it fits, the Tamiya has it molded to th turret.  Still it would be interesting to see if something different could be mounted in that same location. 

Add side skirts and a more slab-sided turret ala' the M1 and you could have a light/airmobile tank to rival the Sheridan in use with the XVIII Airborne Corps.

Could not agree more with you on that John.  A completely different turret with a bit more bustle and storage would go a long ways towards making it look more purposeful.  Maybe take a Leopard 1A4 turret and see if that will fit. 

The M41 definitely needs a diesel engine to give it better range and less of a fire hazard for the crew. 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on March 18, 2014, 08:11:01 AM
Always liked the "feel" of the M-41, irrespective of it's capabilities and limitations. It has a balanced, poised feel to it, much like the Chaffee before it. :)

I'd think a 90mm gun would be high on the shopping list (some countries have done it). If the Panhard ERC-90 armoured car can take the GIAT TS-90 high-velocity weapon, then I can't see the M-41 having a problem.

British Commonwealth versions with 17pdr updated to 20pdr.  A 57mm Molins gun version AT originally but evolving into a SPAAG with a new high elevation mount.  4.5 and 5.5" SPGs as well.

 :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 18, 2014, 08:38:13 AM
How about a Stug type with the 90mm gun?
For a different cupola steal one from an M-48.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on March 18, 2014, 09:25:32 AM
Had a very basic 1/35 M-41 kit when I was in primary school, can't remember the make but know I was so jealous of a friendwhohad the Tamiya kit with its opening hatches.  M-41is a very tankie looking tank (as I agree the M-24 is as well) that just demands to be whiffed into all sorts of senerios and time frames.

I understand the reality behind MBTs and why the old light, medium, heavy tanks have gone by the way, but ther is just something about a fast light tank with a big gun isnt there? 8)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 18, 2014, 09:32:24 AM
The 76mm M32 was no slouch and had equal or better (depending on round fired) to the 17 Pdr.

I don't think there would be sufficient room in an M41 turret to put a 17 Pdr, anyway.   I seem to remember the Brazilians sold a bunch of second-hand M41's they'd upgraded to Uragauy which they had upgraded to have Mecar 90mm guns and new engines.   But remember, the low-pressure guns have substantially lower MV compared to conventional guns and rely on HEAT for their armour penetration whereas the M32 relied on APDS and AP for it's armour penetration.

As to adding armour, the M41 is a light tank.  It's maximum armour is only about 75mm (and that's on it's mantlet).  You'll never able to add sufficient to turn a pig's ear into a silk purse.  Better to keep it to it's original role, as a reconnaissance vehicle, rather than trying to turn it into an MBT.   Although, the M41 was able to take on and kill T-54/55/59 MBTs in Laos and Vietnam quite successfully when it managed to get the drop on them.   Skirts and some ceramic armour perhaps to improve chances of survival but don't assume it's going to go head-to-head with an MBT and survive.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 18, 2014, 09:43:51 AM
How about a Stug type with the 90mm gun?
For a different cupola steal one from an M-48.


Even better would be to avoid the cramped space of the cupola and go with the cupola from an M113 with the ACAV gun shield surrounding it.  That gives the commander a little more flexibility with the machine gun be it a .30 or .50 weapon it can be traversed and elevated without having to hand crank the cupola around to engage the target.  But something more practical like the Urdan style cupola that was based on the original commanders cupola on the M48 and M103 but with the addition of a hatch cover that could be elevated to allow viewing whilst still under armor protection might be a better way to go. 

If you have the spare parts or a kit that you want to dispose of you could also try to adapt the cupola from the M1 Abrams to the M41.  Certainly something to consider if you can afford it :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on March 18, 2014, 09:44:30 AM
How about a Stug type with the 90mm gun?
For a different cupola steal one from an M-48.
:)

Yes, perfect, I love casemate assault guns and tank destroyers.

Some thoughts on that:
90mm, 105mm, 120mm or 20pdr casemate gun,
.50 CAL M-48 or M-60 cupola or .30, .50 Cadillac Guage turret, 20mm turret / cupola for self defense,
2", 3", 60mm, or 81mm mortar for self defence / indirect fire support.
Fragmentation as well as smoke grenade launchers for self defense.

Basically a multi role infantry support vehicle covering direct fire support, indirect fire support, SFMG, etc.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 18, 2014, 09:47:58 AM
How about an M41 armed with the 105mm howitzer?  Fire support and obstacle reduction plus you could give it a bulldozer blade to move dirt and debris.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 18, 2014, 10:29:21 AM
How about an M41 armed with the 105mm howitzer?  Fire support and obstacle reduction plus you could give it a bulldozer blade to move dirt and debris.

Need a new gearbox and transmission and more than likely a more powerful engine.  Why you'd use a light tank for such a task I'm not sure.  Generally if carrying out reconnaissance you go round, not try and push your way through blockages.   Anyway, any barricade would be covered with sufficient firepower to stop any attempt to clear the road block.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 18, 2014, 10:43:19 AM
How about an M41 armed with the 105mm howitzer?  Fire support and obstacle reduction plus you could give it a bulldozer blade to move dirt and debris.
Need a new gearbox and transmission and more than likely a more powerful engine.  Why you'd use a light tank for such a task I'm not sure.  Generally if carrying out reconnaissance you go round, not try and push your way through blockages.   Anyway, any barricade would be covered with sufficient firepower to stop any attempt to clear the road block.


Not saying it would be the ideal tool for the job but in a role of providing fire support for the infantry by direct/indirect fire, equipped with a bulldozer blade (there was a blade kit for the M41 btw) and the ability of the 105H to reduce obstacles by direct fire with a much larger shell that did not rely on higher muzzle velocities it would certainly look convincing as a model and a what if.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 18, 2014, 11:20:06 AM
How about this?

Replace the 76mm gun with the Israeli hypervelocity 60mm gun.  Add twin TOW launchers to each side of the bustle.   Add ceramic armour to hull front and turret sides.  Alternatively, add space armour boxes to the turret, to give it a square, angular shape.

Create a tank destroyer variant similar to the Spanish(?) one which used the M901 "Hammerhead" turret in place of the gun turret.

Create a tank destroyer variant with a proper elevating mast, armed with one of the larger ATGMs like HOT or Swingfire.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on March 18, 2014, 11:34:37 AM
Not saying it would be the ideal tool for the job but in a role of providing fire support for the infantry by direct/indirect fire, equipped with a bulldozer blade (there was a blade kit for the M41 btw) and the ability of the 105H to reduce obstacles by direct fire with a much larger shell that did not rely on higher muzzle velocities it would certainly look convincing as a model and a what if.

Is there enough room for the same 152mm gun-launcher on the Sheridan (or maybe a version modified with bore evacuator)?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 18, 2014, 11:53:05 AM
Not saying it would be the ideal tool for the job but in a role of providing fire support for the infantry by direct/indirect fire, equipped with a bulldozer blade (there was a blade kit for the M41 btw) and the ability of the 105H to reduce obstacles by direct fire with a much larger shell that did not rely on higher muzzle velocities it would certainly look convincing as a model and a what if.

Is there enough room for the same 152mm gun-launcher on the Sheridan (or maybe a version modified with bore evacuator)?

You are aware how alarming firing conventional rounds out of the 152mm gun/missile launcher was in the Sheridan?  It used to leap over a metre backwards with the brakes locked hard on, firing forewards and when they tested it downunder they were concerned that when firing athwartships it would capsize!    While the M41 was some 8 tons heaver, I suspect the effects would have been similar.  The 152mm was simple too big for a light tank.  Anyway, the Shillelagh system was very fragile and prone to loads of problems, including inaccuracy.    There are finite limits as to what you can put into a lightweight chassis, you realise?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on March 18, 2014, 09:50:52 PM
How about an Aussie M-41 used & modified by the Royal Australian Marines in Vietnam?

http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=4175.15 (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=4175.15)
(http://i459.photobucket.com/albums/qq311/GPlachy/RAMs%20M41A1/DSCN2214_zps70fe9da9.jpg)

 ;D ;D ;D

Guy
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 18, 2014, 11:50:03 PM
Don't forget that with modern ammunition the 90mm and even the 76mm would be far more effective.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: TerryCampion on March 19, 2014, 12:30:30 AM
Built one with a German 88m.....I'll look it out.
The M41's a favourite tank of mine.

 >:D
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 19, 2014, 01:22:14 AM
How about an Aussie M-41 used & modified by the Royal Australian Marines in Vietnam?
Guy, it was because of your WIP M41 RAM that I discovered we had no discussion topic for the M41 so I blame you :)

Built one with a German 88m.....I'll look it out.The M41's a favourite tank of mine.

 >:D

Which Tiger did you source your gun tube from?  One is substantially longer than the other and the complete rounds are much different in size too. 
Wikipedia - 8.8 cm /L56 KwK 36 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/8.8_cm_KwK_36) for the Tiger I. 
Wikipedia - 8.8 cm /L71KwK 43 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/8.8_cm_KwK_43) for the Tiger II.   

Don't forget that with modern ammunition the 90mm and even the 76mm would be far more effective.
Quite true about the improvements in ammunition performance.  Especially with the armor piercing fin stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds that were developed for the 76mm and other tank guns.  Addition ammunition types also help (eg. Smoke, HEAT, WP, Canister, and HE) in making it the 76mm a mufti-purpose weapon system. 

Is there enough room for the same 152mm gun-launcher on the Sheridan (or maybe a version modified with bore evacuator)?
There is an image on the interweb showing what appears to be a very early M551 turret that is mounted on an M41 hull and it is described as "the T49 light tank"(click link to view image). (http://ftr.wot-news.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/uFxuJdS.jpg)  More on the T49 at this link: T49 Light Tank – US upcoming tier 8 (http://ftr.wot-news.com/2014/02/18/t49-light-tank-us-upcoming-tier-8/) (Warning!  This appears to be a WoT oriented blog.)  The image shows the Sheridan turret with gun mounted on the M41 hull but major components are missing such as the commanders cupola and a host of other necessary things that would indicate a potentially functional combat vehicle instead of a test vehicle.  Seeing that turret mounted on the M41 hull certainly makes you wonder how the M41 would have fared with the 152mm gun when it was actually fired with a conventional high explosive or HEAT round?  The M13 (MGM-51) Shillelagh guided missile (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MGM-51_Shillelagh) did not require as much propellant to launch from the gun/missile launcher so recoil was much less in comparison to the standard 152mm ammunition types.  The image I linked to above from the blog has the following description with that image: " XM551 (prototype Sheridan) turret mounted on a M41 chassis.  Very little is known about it other than in July 1962, XM551 test bed turret was mounted on the M41 chassis for the evaluation of firepower and tests. These tests took place in Aberdeen [Proving Ground, MD] – they started on 23.8.1962, with 590 rounds being fired from the 152mm gun-launcher." So it appears that the 152mm gun/missile launcher system would work on the M41 and as much as I dislike the shape of the M41 turret, I absolutely hate the shape of the M551 turret.  Personal preferences and likes aside, it looks like it was tested, it worked and that was it.  So if you want to mate Sheridan turret to M41 hull I see no reason aside from the aesthetics to not do so. 

Other vehicles based on the M41 components that I am aware of are the M42 'Duster' twin 40mm SPAAG (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M42_Duster) and the M8 high speed tractor (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M8_Tractor) which was used as the prime mover for a number of then in service large caliber artillery pieces (155mm Gun and 8.0" howitzer).  Spain did develop M41E Cazador as an anti-tank guided missile carrier based on a modified M41 hull (http://www.jedsite.info/tanks-whiskey/whiskey/walker-bulldog_series/m41e/m41e.html) that carried the Emerson TOW turret (same system used on the M901 ITV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M901_ITV))

***update***

Missed the following M41 related vehicles:
JED Site - M44 Self-propelled 155mm Howitzer (http://www.jedsite.info/artillery-mike/mike-number-us/m044_series/m44-series.html)
Wikipedia - M44 Self-Propelled 155mm Howitzer (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M44_Self_Propelled_Howitzer)
JED Site - M52 Self-propelled 105mm Howitzer (http://www.jedsite.info/artillery-mike/mike-number-us/m052_series/m52-series.html)
Wikipedia - M75 Armored Personnel Carrier (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_armored_personnel_carrier)


Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on March 19, 2014, 02:52:33 AM
This is the gun I'd like to see on it:

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b8/ERC-90_Sagaie_008_FR.JPG/800px-ERC-90_Sagaie_008_FR.JPG)

90mm GIAT F4, who's APFSDS round is claimed to be able to penetrate the glacis of a baseline T-72 at 2000m.  If that 8.5 tonne armoured car can carry it in it's 2-man turret, I see no reason why the 23.5 ton M-41 couldn't fit it in it's 3-man turret.

More info: http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product3586.html (http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product3586.html)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 19, 2014, 04:29:03 AM
This is the gun I'd like to see on it:

([url]http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b8/ERC-90_Sagaie_008_FR.JPG/800px-ERC-90_Sagaie_008_FR.JPG[/url])

90mm GIAT F4, who's APFSDS round is claimed to be able to penetrate the glacis of a baseline T-72 at 2000m.  If that 8.5 tonne armoured car can carry it in it's 2-man turret, I see no reason why the 23.5 ton M-41 couldn't fit it in it's 3-man turret.

More info: [url]http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product3586.html[/url] ([url]http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product3586.html[/url])


See no reason why it could not be since Cadillac Gage mounted their Stingray turret armed with the M68/L7 105mm gun fitted with a muzzle break (http://i189.photobucket.com/albums/z41/YourLordandConqueror_2007/Bulldog-Stingray_zps55a7f1d9.png) to reduce recoil forces on the M41 hull and named it the M41 "Bulldog Stingray." 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 19, 2014, 08:44:31 AM
I like the look of the M41E Cazador. I imagine a built up hull like that for carrying a Stug type gun. Another option is an armored vehicle for recovery or combat engineers. Think of the Israeli conversions of Centurions and T-54s.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on March 25, 2014, 02:59:55 AM
A subtle whiff:  in the 1960s Argentina almost acquired M41s...they went on to develop the TAM tank instead.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 25, 2014, 03:41:28 AM
I like the look of the M41E Cazador. I imagine a built up hull like that for carrying a Stug type gun. Another option is an armored vehicle for recovery or combat engineers. Think of the Israeli conversions of Centurions and T-54s.
M41 with the M8 MGS turret sounds attractive at the moment.  Also any kind of turret swap appeals to me and a candidate for that swap could be the Italian Centauro turret.  I did something like that with SketchUp 3D modeling a while back but started with an M551 Sheridan and mated a Centurao turret to the Sheridan hull.  The engine deck was also extended to suggest improvements in the engine and drive train and lose that angled back deck.  It was a great exercise in learning how to mix and match 3D model components so it was not all bad. 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 26, 2014, 07:51:00 AM
I was so tempted to stop in HL and buy one on the way home today!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on March 26, 2014, 09:04:47 AM
I have almost bought an M-41 on so many occasions its not funny.  I tend to buy to themes, usually real or alt Aust ones and the M-41 has never fit but still it just looks tankie, looks right, just want to buy and build it out of the box.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: LemonJello on March 26, 2014, 09:08:51 AM
I was so tempted to stop in HL and buy one on the way home today!

I did. 40% off.  Was just looking through the contents and it should make for a quick build...except for the completely new turret (I've been playing in Sketch Up with some designs) side skirts and re-positioning of the driver's hatch to the centerline.  This should be fun!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on March 26, 2014, 09:47:12 AM
I was so tempted to stop in HL and buy one on the way home today!
I did. 40% off.  Was just looking through the contents and it should make for a quick build...except for the completely new turret (I've been playing in Sketch Up with some designs) side skirts and re-positioning of the driver's hatch to the centerline.  This should be fun!
SketchUp?  :)

I wonder if you could actually move the engine/transmission drive train up to the front of the vehicle and then move the turret to the rear of the hull and have a rear access door?  Might be better to just start with something actually built that way from the start now that I dwell on the idea a bit.  Hmmmm, M41 turret mounted on a Marder hull (think Argentine TAM).  AMX-13 turret on an M41 hull (it worked for the M24 Chaffee).  Plenty of possibilities. 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 26, 2014, 10:15:04 AM
Austrian Kurassier SK-105?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on March 26, 2014, 03:46:49 PM
AMX-13 turret on an M41 hull...I like! :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on March 26, 2014, 05:43:28 PM
Mmm.....just a thought a multi gun, multi calibre AMX-13 turret on a M-41 hull.  75mm or 90mm HV AT gun, 105mm support gun and a 20-30mm auto-cannon.

Just cos!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on March 27, 2014, 01:51:09 AM
How about using an M41 as a proper, fully-enclosed SPAAG mounting for the 20mm Vulcan instead of the M163? Big, squared-off turret like a ZSU-23-4 but with the Vulcan instead of the quad 23mm, and a radar/EO tracker on the back? The concession to lightness could be that the search radar lives on another vehicle (which is a good idea anyway).

If you don't fancy the Vulcan, you could always go for twin 30mm: after all, France had the DCA  SPAAG turret which was fitted to both the AMX-13 and AMX-30 chassis. Heller have kitted both in 1/35th.....
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Cliffy B on March 27, 2014, 01:53:38 AM
There's always a remodel of the M42 duster with its twin 40mm Bofors.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on March 27, 2014, 02:15:23 AM
There's always a remodel of the M42 duster with its twin 40mm Bofors.

I didn't want to make the calibre too big or you end up with a turret that's too big for the M41 hull. Remember, the Sgt.York turret, which is the only fully-enclosed, radar-equipped twin 40mm turret I can think of, was almost too big for the M48..... The French only got twin 30mm onto the AMX-13 DCA because the turret only had search radar but no tracking radar, just optical fire control.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 27, 2014, 10:29:54 AM
IIRC part of the problem with the Sgt York was the ammo feed system. It tried to be able to switch between different types of ammo which I'm sure lead to the larger turret to make space for all that extra machinery. If that were simplified it could make for a smaller turret. Let me check on that.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on March 27, 2014, 10:48:02 AM
IIRC part of the problem with the Sgt York was the ammo feed system. It tried to be able to switch between different types of ammo which I'm sure lead to the larger turret to make space for all that extra machinery. If that were simplified it could make for a smaller turret. Let me check on that.

That wasn't much of a problem, per se.  Switching from one feed to the other would have consisted of a small amount of machinery.  The problem was storing sufficient quantities of the difference types of ammunition.  HE or AP (in various incarnations). The Bofors 40mm round is quite large.   Now, if they'd changed over to a telescoped round they could have saved considerable volume but decided to go with standard rounds instead.   The other problem was the feed system.  'Cause they'd gone for a continious, mechanical feed over the four round clips, you need quite a bit of space for that as well.

Even so, the Sgt. York wasn't too big for an SPAA IMHO.  It was too big for the standard M48 hull, which was afterall, too slow to keep up with the M1s, anyway.  Putting it on the M48 was just another nail in it's coffin.

What they really needed was a 76mm Otomatic gun system.  That could reach out and touch those pesky hovering helicopters with their long range AT missiles, whereas a 40mm couldn't.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on March 27, 2014, 11:08:20 AM
Having now read the detailed Wikipedia article, (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M247_Sergeant_York (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M247_Sergeant_York)) it seems the ammo loading system was one of the Sgt York components that actually worked. Its death nell was the fact that the radar couldn't find the things it was supposed to shoot at. The fact that it was mounted on a 30 year old tank hull surely didn't help matters.
Back in whiff world, I was thinking of something sporting misslle boxes and some butt kicking guns would be cool.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on May 14, 2014, 10:32:25 AM
The recent number of M-41 builds and great ideas for whiffing has set quite a few gears turning in my musty, rusty, and dusty brain. I broke down and bought the Tamiya kit at HL today. If you go to buy anything there check for their internet coupons. They had one for 40% off any one item. Score!! $18.00 kit for $11.46.

I want to try a new engine deck, target acquisition system for TC and gunner, the TUSK system from the M-1 and maybe a new 90mm gun. If not the 90mm gun then a Bradley style box TOW launcher. Add on armor and lots of trash bins too. No promises as to when.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on May 14, 2014, 01:52:17 PM
The recent number of M-41 builds and great ideas for whiffing has set quite a few gears turning in my musty, rusty, and dusty brain. I broke down and bought the Tamiya kit at HL today. If you go to buy anything there check for their internet coupons. They had one for 40% off any one item. Score!! $18.00 kit for $11.46.

I want to try a new engine deck, target acquisition system for TC and gunner, the TUSK system from the M-1 and maybe a new 90mm gun. If not the 90mm gun then a Bradley style box TOW launcher. Add on armor and lots of trash bins too. No promises as to when.
The new engine deck is great fun to figure out.  I started out originally looking at the M50 and M51 Sherman engine deck and realized it was close but just not working.  My next attempt will focus on the engine decks from several Russian tanks in the stash since the engine decks on most of the modern Russian tanks represent a transversely mounted engine it might actually work out in width and length.  If that fails then it is back to sheet plastic :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on May 14, 2014, 09:11:35 PM
I fondling the new plastic last night thinking about what to do with the same problem. I was thinking of scale-o-rama an M-60 or M-48 engine deck if I can find one. Otherwise I was thinking of scratching something similar and casting some extra louvers from the M-41 deck to use as air inlet and exhaust ports. I'll be checking Prime Portal and any other references I can find. There is a real world M-48 on display about 20 miles from my house. I should be able to make up an excuse to head out that way.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on May 15, 2014, 01:34:12 AM
I fondling the new plastic last night thinking about what to do with the same problem. I was thinking of scale-o-rama an M-60 or M-48 engine deck if I can find one. Otherwise I was thinking of scratching something similar and casting some extra louvers from the M-41 deck to use as air inlet and exhaust ports. I'll be checking Prime Portal and any other references I can find. There is a real world M-48 on display about 20 miles from my house. I should be able to make up an excuse to head out that way.
Your suggestion to use the M48/M60 grill work at the rear is a great idea.  I had not considered that option myself.  Will have to check and see what it looks like and how much needs to be trimmed off the edges.  Another source for parts might be the Leopard I hull with the side mounted exhaust vents.  Finding a 1:48th scale Leopard, M48, M60, Challenger, or M1 Abrams might help too in finding a suitably shaped and right sized part or parts to come up with something plausible. 
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 15, 2014, 01:45:41 AM
How about using an M41 as a proper, fully-enclosed SPAAG mounting for the 20mm Vulcan instead of the M163? Big, squared-off turret like a ZSU-23-4 but with the Vulcan instead of the quad 23mm, and a radar/EO tracker on the back? The concession to lightness could be that the search radar lives on another vehicle (which is a good idea anyway).

Been thinking about this for a bit & I thought "What about a towed search radar unit?"
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on May 15, 2014, 12:46:44 PM
Anyone have an idea of the diameter of the bolt like attachments for add on armor as seen on Stryker and other vehicles?
http://www.globalsecurity.org/jhtml/jframe.html#http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/images/staticstryker_army2004-12-14.jpg (http://www.globalsecurity.org/jhtml/jframe.html#http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/images/staticstryker_army2004-12-14.jpg)|||

Grantline has bolt heads for railroad scenery that would work.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 15, 2014, 01:37:34 PM
How about using an M41 as a proper, fully-enclosed SPAAG mounting for the 20mm Vulcan instead of the M163? Big, squared-off turret like a ZSU-23-4 but with the Vulcan instead of the quad 23mm, and a radar/EO tracker on the back? The concession to lightness could be that the search radar lives on another vehicle (which is a good idea anyway).

Been thinking about this for a bit & I thought "What about a towed search radar unit?"

Trailers and tanks don't mix very well.  The driver usually can't see the thing and in an emergency can reverse right over it without noticing.  The British experience with various supply trailers in WWII and after was such that they preferred to bolt a big armoured fuel tank on the back of the Centurion rather than persist with the mono-trailer they'd developed to extend it's range.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 15, 2014, 01:54:35 PM
Fair enough.

My idea was a fairly large trailer with a search radar unit which would be dropped off & erected on a hill top, with the M41 20mm SPAAG moving on to set up in a nearby location as part of a defensive net around a SPArty / HQ area.

Guess it would be just as easy to use a 2nd vehicle for the radar unit (another M41?).
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 15, 2014, 02:11:44 PM
Put the radar on either an APC (if it's expected to operate well forward) or a soft-skin if you believe it will be operating well to the rear.   There wouldn't be enough room in an M41 for the electronics, the operators and the radar antenna.  You'd need to add a big, boxy superstructure and so you might as well go with a vehicle that already has that.

I'd recommend the M577 ACV as a good starting point.  Alternatively, perhaps the M548 TLC.  Then you have your choice of trucks, if you'd prefer to go down that route.  Remember, radars by their very nature don't need to be right up with your forward troops, so a truck might be adequate.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 15, 2014, 02:59:50 PM
A bit of armour might be nice, given the number of HARM's floating around during/just before bombing missions, though. ;)

How about a M41 undergoing a major rebuild (like the Israelis do) with an armoured box superstructure, a smaller (more) modern engine fitted off to one side, layout reversed (so that it is, essentially, going backwards), with the driver seated (at least partially) beside the engine? ???

You could even do something similar for the SPAAG, with a double hatch at the (new) rear to make reloading easier.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 15, 2014, 03:24:01 PM
Depends on what period you're talking about.  When 20mm were effective (they aren't any more), there weren't that many ARMs around, so armour wasn't really required.  Today, yes, you need armour but even so, lots of Search Radars are still mounted on soft-skin vehicles.  I was just looking at picture of the new Swedish Giraffe 4 radar family and nearly all are mounted on unarmoured vehicles.   

(http://feed.ne.cision.com/wpyfs/00/00/00/00/00/25/C7/51/ae718f365f8e53b2_800x800ar.jpg)

It all depends on the range of the radar, I think.  Tactical radars need armour, they're used relatively close to the FEOT (Forward Edge Own Troops).  An area which might be subject to air attack, as well as longish range artillery.   Medium radars are further back, they are less likely to be attacked by artillery and ARMs.  Theatre radars are even further back.  In each case, they rely on their radars to do the detecting, overlooking friendly troops.   That should enable them to detect an ARM when it's inbound and so enable them to turn their radar off.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 15, 2014, 04:18:11 PM
I'm thinking late-60's to late-70's, operational.

Probably more forward areas, artillery protection detail / forward fire-base defence in an irregular-infiltration / regular force enemy environment similar to Viet Nam.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 15, 2014, 06:11:47 PM
M113 variant the, I'd suggest.  Either M113 itself or an M577 command vehicle.  Here's one example on M548:

(http://www.armyrecognition.com/images/stories/north_america/united_states/light_armoured/m113_radar/pictures/m113_radar_station_tracked_armoured_vehicle_battlefield_surveillance_US_Army_United_States_004.jpg)

Not sure what the radar is but it looks like an air search one.

Alternatively, there is the Hawk SAM PARS radar:

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b9/MIM-23_HAWK_PAR_radar_2.jpg)

Put something similar on top of an M577.

Alternatively you could do something similar with the Contraves Flycatcher radar (which is a proper AA set and right for the period) and put it on the back of M548:

(http://www.simthetiqestore.com/images/Flycatcher.IN.green_rear-3D-Models-Openflight-VBS2-Simthetiq.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on May 15, 2014, 09:10:24 PM
M113 variant the, I'd suggest.  Either M113 itself or an M577 command vehicle.  Here's one example on M548:

([url]http://www.armyrecognition.com/images/stories/north_america/united_states/light_armoured/m113_radar/pictures/m113_radar_station_tracked_armoured_vehicle_battlefield_surveillance_US_Army_United_States_004.jpg[/url])

Not sure what the radar is but it looks like an air search one.


Think that's a variation on the Contraves Skyguard. It looks like the standard shelter just stuck on the back of the M548.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on May 15, 2014, 09:20:19 PM
A bit of armour might be nice, given the number of HARM's floating around during/just before bombing missions, though. ;)

How about a M41 undergoing a major rebuild (like the Israelis do) with an armoured box superstructure, a smaller (more) modern engine fitted off to one side, layout reversed (so that it is, essentially, going backwards), with the driver seated (at least partially) beside the engine? ???

You could even do something similar for the SPAAG, with a double hatch at the (new) rear to make reloading easier.


Isn't that basically an M75? : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC))

Would make a good radar carrier: loads of room.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 16, 2014, 12:26:02 AM
1st time I've heard of the M75 but, yes, it does fit the bill nicely! :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on May 16, 2014, 12:28:40 AM
I was thinking of rebuilt M-41s as scout vehicles or a vehicle to run with the APCs to give them more protection from other AFVs that are less than a MBT.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 16, 2014, 12:00:56 PM

Think that's a variation on the Contraves Skyguard. It looks like the standard shelter just stuck on the back of the M548.

I knew it looked familiar but I couldn't place it.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 16, 2014, 12:02:37 PM
Isn't that basically an M75? : [url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC)[/url] ([url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC))[/url]

Would make a good radar carrier: loads of room.


Yes but not terribly successful as an APC and already out of service in most armies by the late 1950s. Belgium stuck with them longer than most though. Also rather thirsty and short-ranged.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Weaver on May 17, 2014, 02:38:17 AM
Isn't that basically an M75? : [url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC)[/url] ([url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M75_(APC))[/url]

Would make a good radar carrier: loads of room.


Yes but not terribly successful as an APC and already out of service in most armies by the late 1950s. Belgium stuck with them longer than most though. Also rather thirsty and short-ranged.


All true and Belgium only stuck with them because they got them for free. However, if you're looking for radar/ammo vehicles on the same platform as your M-41 SPAAGs, then you're going to end up with something awfully like the M75 whatever you do.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on May 17, 2014, 09:19:19 AM
Good point but rather an expensive way of going about it and little outside the parameters set down by Guy as to period.   I'm unaware of any models of the M75 from a mainstream manufacturer in 1/35, which I think is really what Guy is looking for.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on May 17, 2014, 10:27:48 PM
Nah, I was just running through a thought experiment triggered by Weaver's M41 20mm SPAAG idea! ;D
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Cliffy B on May 18, 2014, 07:08:53 AM
I know these are for M60 tanks but some of the mods should prove inspirational for the M41 too.

http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,7417.0.html (http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,7417.0.html)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on June 09, 2014, 11:19:27 AM
The attached picture speaks of a proposed M41 variant, made after the T49 development, armed with the same rifled 90mm gun as early M48 medium tank.

(Well, I wished I could find a picture of better resolution or even the source article but couldn't......)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on June 09, 2014, 11:38:11 AM
The attached picture speaks of a proposed M41 variant, made after the T49 development, armed with the same rifled 90mm gun as early M48 medium tank.

(Well, I wished I could find a picture of better resolution or even the source article but couldn't......)

Looks like it comes from Hunnicutt's book on the Sheridan.  Which, if you want an explicit history of US post-war light tank development is THE one to get (as are all Hunnicutt's books).
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on June 09, 2014, 01:16:30 PM
The artist's impression seems to include a thicker mantlet but not the raised roof ŕ la T49.  Does it seem like I should be expecting reduced vertical gun arc compared to the original 76mm?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on June 11, 2014, 05:58:22 AM
My only thought about installing a 90mm gun is the room left inside the turret. The breech has to be larger and the ammunition would take up much more space.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on June 11, 2014, 06:51:53 AM
My only thought about installing a 90mm gun is the room left inside the turret. The breech has to be larger and the ammunition would take up much more space.

It reminds me of what I've been wondering about the Sherman M51's turret volume...... granted, I don't know enough to make the comparison.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on June 11, 2014, 07:38:02 AM
The M51 turret was extensively modified.  In the end, the only thing left of the original Sherman turret was the sides.  Both fore and aft was cut away and new structures welded on.  They had to do that because when they pushed the trunnions forward, to fit first the 90mm and then the 105mm gun, they had to create a counter-balancing mass at the rear (and provide more room for the crew) to balance the load on the turret ring.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on June 11, 2014, 08:59:46 AM
If I scaled this correctly:

(http://i.imgur.com/mRKv4F5.jpg)

I tried to align the trunnions of both vehicles as well, hoping for ease of comparison...... how far does each gun recoil again?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on June 11, 2014, 06:30:09 PM
I think you'll find that the M48 drawing is somewhat squashed both horizontally and vertically.  You need to make sure they are both to the same scale before you do a comparison.

As to how far the guns recoil, I have no idea.  However, remember they must be able to recoil at maximum depression, otherwise the breech will be smashing into the roof at full recoil!

Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: ysi_maniac on June 16, 2014, 01:53:56 AM
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/drawTanks/M41-Bradley.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/drawTanks/M41-Bradley.jpg.html)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/drawTanks/M41alturret.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/drawTanks/M41alturret.jpg.html)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/drawTanks/M41-HSTV.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/drawTanks/M41-HSTV.jpg.html)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on June 16, 2014, 03:21:23 AM
 :)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: dy031101 on July 18, 2014, 08:51:35 AM
So it appears that the 152mm gun/missile launcher system would work on the M41 and as much as I dislike the shape of the M41 turret, I absolutely hate the shape of the M551 turret.

This question didn't immediately come to me, but does the M41's turret have more internal space than the M551 turret or less?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on July 19, 2014, 09:22:07 AM
The Bradley turret on the tank hull looks familiar. Does anyone know just how "deep" the Bradley sits into the vehicle hull? Would a tank have a deep enough space?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on July 15, 2015, 08:59:39 PM
Researching for my Antipodean Armour Fest I found this:

http://www.military-today.com/tanks/mb3_tamoyo.htm (http://www.military-today.com/tanks/mb3_tamoyo.htm)

I had completely forgotten about the Tamoyo and only remembered it when the Osorio popped up in my cold war tank searches.

I liked the look of the Tamoyo but had no idea it owed so much to the M-41, having the same basic chassis but stretched to fit an extra road wheel.  Once I was aware of the connection I could actually see the likeness to the M-41.

It would probably be a big job to build a Tamoyo from an M-41 but it does give some additional whiffing ideas.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on July 16, 2015, 02:49:31 AM
More info here (http://www.ecsbdefesa.com.br/arq/Art%2017.htm)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: ysi_maniac on July 25, 2015, 01:00:33 AM
Oh yes! I do love TAMOYO!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Frank3k on January 10, 2016, 05:14:23 AM
I might have to buy a Bradley and Bulldog then do some mix and matching. Although I'm guessing a Bradley turret would be too small to fit on either of the other vehicles.

Thanks to the wonders of CAKB (Cheap-ass kit bashing) here's a Tamiya 1/35 M41 with the turret from an Academy M2 Bradley. It would fit with minor surgery to the Tamiya kit.:

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1635/23649692694_019fd517b7_o.jpg)

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1684/24195373521_06f466d71b_o.jpg)

This is the base of the Tamiya turret vs. the Academy turret:
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1678/23982311190_6913df8b99_o.jpg)

Bonus - M41 with the turret from a Hobby Boss LAV-150 Commando AFV with Cockerill 90mm:

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1441/23982311150_706712d4d0_o.jpg)




Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Crbad on January 10, 2016, 10:36:54 AM
 :) I'm very familiar with CAKB! Lol Most of my kit bashed planes come from model expos and cost about $5 each. Now I have a decision to make. Run out to the Lhs tomorrow or wait 2 weeks for another kit show and look for tanks, possibly saving 50-75%...
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on January 10, 2016, 12:36:17 PM
That LAV 150 turret looks tiny to be holding a 90mm gun!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Frank3k on January 10, 2016, 02:32:41 PM
That LAV 150 turret looks tiny to be holding a 90mm gun!


It's a low pressure gun, with less recoil, so it's smaller than you'd expect:
(http://www.armyrecognition.com/images/stories/europe/belgium/weapons/cmi_defence_turret_CSE90_90_mm/cse90_weapon_system_armoured_vehicle_turret_90_mm_gun_cmi_Defence_cockerill_Belgium_Belgian_page_product_001.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Zaskar24 on January 11, 2016, 06:42:26 AM
I am wondering what the feasibility, and practicality for that matter, of up-gunning with a French CN 75-50 in the late 1950 to early 1960's time frame would be. In part to try and gain better anti-tank capability and also for ammunition compatibility to lower logistics requirements. Please note, the AT capability is to allow recon elements to be able to get away from heavier tanks by killing one from ambush or in a surprise situation. Not to use it in stand up fights against said heavier tanks.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on January 11, 2016, 01:50:04 PM
I have a leftover 105mm gun from an Isherman. If it can fit in a Sherman turret how about an M-41 turret? Worth checking out.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Zaskar24 on January 11, 2016, 07:21:14 PM
I have a leftover 105mm gun from an Isherman. If it can fit in a Sherman turret how about an M-41 turret? Worth checking out.

I do believe that the M41 has a turret ring diameter that is 4" greater then the Sherman so it should work. Not sure what the actual turret size difference is and how much rrom there would be in the M41 turret to maneuver and load the 105 rounds.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Jacques Deguerre on January 21, 2016, 11:47:05 AM
I am wondering what the feasibility, and practicality for that matter, of up-gunning with a French CN 75-50 in the late 1950 to early 1960's time frame would be. In part to try and gain better anti-tank capability and also for ammunition compatibility to lower logistics requirements. Please note, the AT capability is to allow recon elements to be able to get away from heavier tanks by killing one from ambush or in a surprise situation. Not to use it in stand up fights against said heavier tanks.
My understanding is that the M32 76mm was no slouch and that the two guns are close enough in performance to make the swap unnecessary. Having said that, I've found it a bit difficult to find good information on the specific performance of the M32.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on June 30, 2018, 08:28:00 PM
Thread necromancy...….

Having just bought my very own Tamiya M-41 I am wondering what regunning options would be realistic assuming a long service life for the type in a Commonwealth military (i.e. Australia).


The reason for the regunning would be logistics not performance persay, i.e. the post WWII ADF adopts the planned Comet (77mm HV) and Centurion (20pdr) tank fleet plus retains the towed 17pdr AT gun.  In my alt history the ADF also make use of upgraded M-10C (17pdr) and a 17pdr version of the M-18, as well as a 77mm HV casemate TD replacing towed AT guns in regular line Infantry Btns.  My original thinking was for Cavalry / Armoured formations to make use of Comets in their reconnaissance elements and the Infantry to use M-24s (with their 75mm and HE) along side their TDs and 95mm, 25pdr, or 105mm assault guns in their armoured support Companies. 

Anyway, back on topic, I am thinking now to the mid 50s and post Korea and the need to upgrade and/or replace the WWII vintage turreted TDs, assault guns and light tanks.  Think HVSS M-10s with 20pdrs, or even modified M-36 with same or 105mm L7 and the still lethal 17pdr with its improved propellent (dramatically improving accuracy) or 77mm HVs cascaded to M-41 acquired to replace the M-24.

As an aside it would be interesting to see apples for apples comparisons of penetration as well as size, weight, recoil etc. of the various late war, post war HV tank guns.  The various US 76mm, 90mm 120mm; German / French 75, 88, 105mm; British 77mm, 17pdr, 20pdr, 05mm, 120mm.  Anyone know of an available (not to hideously expensive) source?

That aside, I am planning to build my M-41 tomorrow and use it as an airbrush project.  I have 77mmHV nd 17pdr barrels available for conversion, any ideas which would be best?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Rickshaw on July 01, 2018, 12:26:48 PM
77mm although that would be only for ammunition commonality as it's performance wasn't as good as the 76mm of the M41.   The 76mm was good enough to be able to penetrate T54/55/59 MBTs frontally during Lom Son 719 in Laos (admittedly at close range).  The 17 Pdr. had a long recoil and a heavy recoil, which precluded it's easy mounting in most tanks.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on July 02, 2018, 10:37:26 AM
Some inspiration:  M41 105

(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/image.jpg1_zpsrgznzxsy.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on July 02, 2018, 03:32:56 PM
Ah huh, too lazy though.  Mybe I can dress up the current turret and add a suitable gun.  Got a few Verlinden 105s somewhere but they are warped from memory.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Volkodav on July 02, 2018, 03:34:32 PM
Need to start building this before it gets tidied somewhere that I:

a) can't find it
b) can't get to it.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on September 08, 2021, 02:38:08 AM
Missile armed variants from Spain:

M-41E TUA "Cazador"  (TOW Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/67/d9/08/bbce79230b118c5faa03f3bec4c7f57866_mq/000%2825%29.jpg)
(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/a7/cd/08/3ecc248b019cbe863fa97ac9453b676d45_mq/f33Niye.jpg)
(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/fc/e5/3f/b9e610f17c770c2dc29fc900bb717f3cb5_mq/QBEfq7J.jpg)
(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/ab/45/d3/f4fe93eeaec5c81e49cb648413c2626e67_mq/M41E+TUA+3.jpg)

M-41E HAKO (HOT Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/a0/0a/2f/8a4a4ac3a623f86d99adb40d3855db0ee3_mq/wpu3Vzu.jpg)
(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/d3/15/64/db4d114275c9fbac697795ef94198e4e14_mq/Gdc7DVk.jpg)

M-41E with Thune-Eureka turret  (TOW Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/d6/86/4e/73eddf5862f876d5ab2af65a51442af625_mq/QvWOlv0.jpg)

M-41E with K3S turret (HOT Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/09/fa/98/72284dcbb13ee2a0374113b75dad77c644_mq/gah1eB9.jpg)

M-41E with Mephisto turret (HOT Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/a4/16/bc/ae5f6f4b32ef88141e9b7e579ee88be6b5_mq/dUSiUD3.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on September 08, 2021, 05:03:03 AM
Some inspiration:  M41 105
 

That's Caddilac Gage's turret for their STINGRAY tank. They'll pop that on just about any hull that'll fit (like an M551 Sheridan).

Three view drawing not embedded, so you guys can get the max resolution
https://i.imgur.com/QItkxVv.jpg
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: apophenia on September 08, 2021, 10:22:34 AM
Missile armed variants from Spain:

M-41E TUA "Cazador"  (TOW Missiles): ...

Interesting! And a nice bit of recycling  :smiley:  That Emerson TUA turret must be similar to that on the US Army's M901 ITVs.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on September 08, 2021, 01:23:38 PM
I should get on with my idea of an M-41 “Stug” assault gun vehicle with either a 90mm or 105mm gun. I want to do an engine change so I’ll have to scratch build a new rear end. I wanted to try transplanting an M48 or M60 engine housing in 1/48th scale but try to find one of those. You would think they would be common but it appears not.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: ChernayaAkula on September 08, 2021, 05:39:16 PM
These missile-armed M41s are really cool.  :smiley: The variety of turrets is also quite interesting.

I should get on with my idea of an M-41 “Stug” assault gun vehicle with either a 90mm or 105mm gun. <...>

You should!  :smiley: Seeing the superstructure on those missile-armed tanks, they immediately reminded me of the German Kanonenjagdpanzer (gun-armed tank destroyer) that were rebuilt into Raketenjagdpanzer (missile-armed tank destroyers) when their 90mm guns were no longer up to date.
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Kerick on September 09, 2021, 12:53:13 AM
Now that you mentioned it I do see the similarities. Interesting…….
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: apophenia on September 09, 2021, 02:37:49 AM
I should get on with my idea of an M-41 “Stug” assault gun vehicle with either a 90mm or 105mm gun. I want to do an engine change so I’ll have to scratch build a new rear end. I wanted to try transplanting an M48 or M60 engine housing in 1/48th scale but try to find one of those. You would think they would be common but it appears not.

Cool idea! Probably just as well that you can't find a 1/48 M48 and M60 kit. Other than the obscenely-expensive motorized Tamiya kit, most of these seem mostly to be over-priced (but under-detailed) repops of '70s Snap-Tite kits  :P

In any case, the rear section of a 1/48 Patton would be over .60 inches narrower than a 1/35 M41 (although I realize that doesn't account for the difference in track cover widths).

Anyway, love your concept. Maybe combining Bundeswehr M41 hulls with 'recycled' M47 90s for a direct whif alternative to the actual Kanonenjagdpanzer ?
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on September 09, 2021, 05:29:24 AM
I should get on with my idea of an M-41 “Stug” assault gun vehicle with either a 90mm or 105mm gun. I want to do an engine change so I’ll have to scratch build a new rear end. I wanted to try transplanting an M48 or M60 engine housing in 1/48th scale but try to find one of those. You would think they would be common but it appears not.

Not necessarily - I'm not sure an AVDS-1790 (M48/60 power pack) would fit into that engine bay.

Scroll up to the Cazacarros drawings. They appear to show an unchanged engine deck, with the upgraded Spanish power pack.

I *think* this was a new General Motors 8V-71T diesel engine developing 400 hp.

For more details on upgraded M41 engines, see
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M41_Walker_Bulldog
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Old Wombat on September 09, 2021, 03:42:56 PM
I should get on with my idea of an M-41 “Stug” assault gun vehicle with either a 90mm or 105mm gun. I want to do an engine change so I’ll have to scratch build a new rear end. I wanted to try transplanting an M48 or M60 engine housing in 1/48th scale but try to find one of those. You would think they would be common but it appears not.

One good reason to build armour in 1/35, especially as there's not that big a price difference. ;)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Frank3k on September 09, 2021, 10:52:33 PM
The M41U/M41UR  (http://otm-uswot.blogspot.com/2018/03/m41ur.html) with a 90mm Cockerill gun:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vB9oCWjaPd4/Wr50Nzx4pWI/AAAAAAAACNU/W2h9ni-cl7gcOzudgxS571HW8e9XWgGGwCLcBGAs/s1600/M41UR.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: ysi_maniac on September 14, 2021, 05:05:00 AM
Lots of wonderful ideas in this thread. :smiley:
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Gingie on September 18, 2021, 09:11:11 AM


M-41E with K3S turret (HOT Missiles):

(https://cdn-live.warthunder.com/uploads/09/fa/98/72284dcbb13ee2a0374113b75dad77c644_mq/gah1eB9.jpg)


WALL-E is done hauling your trash!
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on September 19, 2021, 01:58:23 AM
 ;D
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on December 04, 2021, 10:51:45 AM
ARVN M-41 with sun shade.
(https://i.imgur.com/05V01rd.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/oIw85Sm.jpg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on February 02, 2022, 10:52:37 AM
West German 123rd TK BN, 1961
(https://www.stripes.com/news/migrated.image.19869_115222636.jpg/alternates/LANDSCAPE_910/%27%27Aggressor%27%27%20armor%20from%20the%20German%20Army%27s%20123rd%20T)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on February 23, 2022, 10:36:56 PM
Now wouldn't it be a Plot Twist if Vietnam (who has ARVN legacy Bulldogs) put in a tender for Taiwan's Bulldog fleet and did they're own 21st century upgrade?
https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/44406/taiwan-prepares-to-give-up-its-m41a3-walker-bulldog-tanks-after-more-than-six-decades?fbclid=IwAR3liNJZU50w1fGIlJHfFM-mqZnq2Hg-qewKVEraiC-Bv618sWL7F60Kpcc (https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/44406/taiwan-prepares-to-give-up-its-m41a3-walker-bulldog-tanks-after-more-than-six-decades?fbclid=IwAR3liNJZU50w1fGIlJHfFM-mqZnq2Hg-qewKVEraiC-Bv618sWL7F60Kpcc)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: Story on October 10, 2022, 12:15:01 PM
Dominican M41 camo pattern.
(https://i.imgur.com/XDeuNLp.jpeg)
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: GTX_Admin on October 11, 2022, 01:10:19 AM
 :smiley:
Title: Re: M41 Walker ''Bulldog'' Light Tank
Post by: ysi_maniac on January 24, 2023, 03:57:28 PM
Alternative guns for M41

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/M41_guns.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/M41_guns.png?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)