What is the different between M1A1 and M1A1 AIM ?What is the different between M1A2 and M1A2 SEP ?i mean exterior like the hull and turret … Thanks
No idea when they are to be released, I have heard summer to fall timeframe, nothing definite.
As to differences between M1A2 and M1A2 SEP.
The M1A2 added the CIT-V, which allows the commander to search and designate targets while the gunner engages the current target. This tank also incorporated an auxiliary power unit (APU or basically a generator) in the turret bustle rack to power the optics and electronics without the need to run the turbine engine. The APU has been retrofitted to many M1A1s as well. The M1A2 also required a new commander’s cupola because the CIT-V data screens took up too much room in the commander’s hatch.
M1A2 SEP (Systems Enhancement Program). This upgraded several internal systems and allowed the APU to be moved from the turret bustle to the inside of the left rear hull (Under Armor APU or UAAPU). The engine was changed as well and the CIT-V now uses a 2nd generation FLIR. The biggest difference in the SEP is the new engine, smaller, more fuel-efficient (hence the removal of one fuel tank for the APU) and the same power. It also has a new Thermal Management System (Air Conditioner, mainly for all the electronic components) and part of it, the Vapor Compression System Unit(VPSU), is now in the turret bustle rack where the EAPU used to be in an M1A1/A2. There are also some new electronics installed in the SEP. All SEPs are rebuilt tanks that may have been M1IP or M1A1.
Mainly the visual changes are the removal of the turret bussle rack APU, with the VCSU in its place. The other diference is the additional access panels and bits and pieces on the rear left hull for the new hull mounted APU.
VCSU ??how it look like do u have site which i can see them ? VCSU is using to cool components ? does it cool interior turret and driver compartment ?
The VCSU is the external part of the Thermal Management System (A/C unit). It is simmilar to the compressor/condenser unit outside your house for a home A/C system. The system cools the whole tank. I don’t have any on-line referance pics of the actual unit. Gunnie, Jim Lewis, has built one on his M1A2 SEP. Check here: http://www.guntruck.com/m1a2sepabramspage1.html Scroll through the pages, it is near the end.
wow really nice VCSU … can t wait it come out …