Start of a new project, a simple RC conversion of the static 1/16 scale Takom M50A1 Ontos ("the thing" in greek).
I had the Takom kit on the shelf for maybe two years now. When i opened it the first time, the complicated suspension and the rubber band tracks did not encourage me to pursue a conversion. However, i relooked at it and concluded that a working suspension for such a small vehicle is probably not required. With its light weight, super wide tracks and low ground pressure, a working suspension would probably not even be activated.
So, with a total RC conversion budget of around $50 dollars, i decided to give it a try, the risk is low. Besides, i like to see things that i have not seen before so this is a good opportunity to have some fun.
Seen below is a M50 Ontos at the US Marine Corps museum in Quantico during my visit there almost 15 years ago. Nice museum with realistic and complex displays.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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I was looking for something different to build, and this is definitely a good choice.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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In service only with the US Marine Corps, it served well in Vietnam, providing valuable mobile fire support to the infantry. It is armed with 6 M40 106mm recoilless rifles on a small turret, and one M1919A4 machine gun.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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The tracks are very wide, consisting of a band with metal cleats.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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The Takom kit. I love this brand, providing unique and affordable 1/16 vehicles to the market instead of just issuing the N variation of German stuff.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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The two part rubber band tracks... It is obvious that no after market company would ever offer a replacement for it. Actually, not a single after market item can be found for the Ontos.
- 1/16 RC M-50A1 Ontos - Converting the Takom kit to RC - Build
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continuing on following post
),
Louis is at it already, with hardly a breather after the M113! "a simple [year sure] RC conversion of the static 1/16 scale Takom M50A1 Ontos." Remembering the Renwal (?) kit from the 'sixties, I jumped on this Takom kit as soon as it was available on Andy's Hobby Headquarters. I hope to build it static (someday) as I do want the interior. But I sure will be watching with interest and awe.
