My latest build is an M151A2 1/4 ton truck (jeep) in the late '80s-early '90s with a ROPS (Roll-Over Protection System) cage. I find it an interesting mod to protect the crew in the event of a roll-over, which didn’t really happen with the A2 version. The roll-over problems were in the M151 and M151A1 with the rear suspension/wheel tucking under in a quick turn, causing the vehicle to roll. The M151A2 had a modified rear suspension that corrected the problem.
I started mine using a Tamiya M151A2 kit. To it, I have added 3D printed parts from James Lee (@Petition2God) at Armorama. He has a whole set of M151 upgrade parts. I have used a grill with hollowed out headlights, front upper a-arms, underbody plates, NATO slave cable adaptor, front bumper, and fuel filler. I have also used parts from the Legend M151 update set. I used the pedals, turn signal, and a few other smaller items. I will also use the seats from this set.
Here it is so far, showing the 3D parts (dark grey parts) well.
Hello Gino!
Cool project and it’s starting to look good, too!
Once I heard from somebody that - like in that saying - there are three ways to solve every problem: Right wrong and the military way… Here too - they had problem with rolling over (much less in the A2) - so they fitted a sturdy cage, that made the vehicle more top-heavy and increased the risk of a roll over… The military way…
How about the paint scheme for your machine - you probably already have something in mind?
A small update today. I added a few more pieces underneath. I added a cross member that Tamiya missed. I also added the front steering components; steering gear box, pitman arms, tie rod, and steering arms.
I like your attention to the chassis on this one! I don’t think you are going to add those - but what’s really missing are the U-joints on the drive shafts and drive axles.
Also - looking at the last photo - replacing the bumperettes with something thinner (sheet metal?) would be a definite plus here.
It’s getting closer. I have added the NATO camo to the jeep and started painting the smaller subassemblies. The green is sprayed Tamiya NATO Green, the black and brown are hand painted.
Lastly, I modified the seat frames so they properly fold forward. I used some thick wire for the bent down supports and a thinner piece of styrene rod for the crossbar. Some left over PE fret make up the hinge mounts that attach to the floor.
