I must first apologize for my lack of knowledge of what, to you I’m sure, is a simple question. However, I’m more of a plane junkie and am weak on my armor knowledge.
That said, I know the “caliber” of folks that visit FSM and know this is the place to go for answers! [bow]
I saw this tank at a USMC Training Center in Yakima, WA. It is in a fence-enclosed area so I couldn’t get too close. Initially I thought it was an M60, but the more I compared “my” picture with those on the internet, I began to think it was an M48. However, both types have a different number of retrun rollers and road wheels.
Thanks in advance for you help. It’s driving me nuts not being able to figure out what type of tank this is! [banghead]
Oh, there was also a T-72 in the same fenced area and I was able to get a couple of pictures of it, if anyone is interested?
Actually, to be more precise, it is an M103A2. The M103A2 received the same diesel engine used in the M60-series, M88A1 and later M48-series tanks. The key to identifying and M103A2 vs. an M103 or M103A1 is the presence of side loading air cleaners on the rear fenders. If you look on the rear fender, directly above the next to the last support roller, you will see the air cleaner. It looks like a long, squared rectangular box with a handle on the side.
From the sides or rear, it is easiest to differentiate the diesel engined M103A2 from the gasoline powered M103 or M103A1. The A2 will have a raised engine deck and rear grill doors similar to those found on later M48 and M60 tanks.
Here is a rear view shot of the M103A2 to illustrate the differences.
Versus the M103 with the type of rear engine compartment typical of M47 and early M48 tanks.
