Early War Japanese Tankette by TAKOM

[Xiaoshan_Sailor]

I'm starting a Takom FT-17 conversion using the Tamiya twin-motor gearbox so that's going to be a tight fit in the Type 94, if it even fits? The gearbox case is 75x57mm for reference. My friend I bought the FT-17 from was interested in getting one to convert but the biggest challenge we both saw is going to be the rear axles. It's probably doable but going to take some work.

Worst case, it sure will make a nice accessory for any M4A3 Sherman you have.

Here's a link with walk around photos for reference:

http://www.ammssydney.com/type-94-tanke ... ed-part-2/

cntrefwlk_jp_type94_2_org_007.jpg (50.82 KiB) Viewed 3219 times

[43rdRecceReg]

...That's an amazing shot of the port-a-tank Sherman! It certainly gives a true idea of size and scale. I wonder if the Japanese recruited hobbits to drive the Tankette.

[Manu-Military]

Very nice project.
Though I don't make any RC tanks, here's a view of what can be done with these kind of kits:
http://manu-military.e-monsite.com/page ... -1944.html

[Xiaoshan_Sailor]

I'm sure the IJA crews had an easier time than the Aussies.

type_94_tankette2.jpg (52.2 KiB) Viewed 3159 times

[43rdRecceReg]

I don't think those eye-popping, vintage, black and white shots have seen the light of day very often. Certainly, I've not seen the like.
The 94 could be adapted to make an armoured lawn mower, or a mobility vehicle for the wary pensioner.
I wonder if they ever made a kamikaze version? Mind you, going into action in one against even the Honey (M3), would have amounted to the same...

[PainlessWolf]

Roy!
You are reading my mind. That would be perfect for running on the back 40. Manu, I always enjoy your excellent static models. They are an inspiration for this Sherman builder.
regards,
Painless

[Xiaoshan_Sailor]

Good book that I have. You can buy online or download from several sources including Scribd.

Here's another: https://www.1999.co.jp/eng/image/10426750

[PainlessWolf]

Xiaoshan,
Thank you for the handy reference links. I collect books and do a scale model of the RC version when I am about to build it so they are invaluable. ;o)
regards,
Painless

[JohnWhyte]

Yeah I've got a takom ft17 to do but I'm stuck with the sprockets for it to get them to work with the twin gears

[Model Builder 4]

Hi painless,

These little tanks do look good but they are a pain in the neck to fit all the gizmos inside, I'm part way into a build myself of a Renault ft17, I've also used one of the tamiya twin motor gearbox units but the only trouble with it is that it's a little bit speedy I've tried jiggling the gearing about a bit but it hasn't made a lot of difference so I'll just have to put up with a racing Renault on the upside I've used a control board from a cheap 1/24th tank which gives me engine and track squeak sounds ( albeit very quiet ) turret rotation and cannon flash, it's not going to be the best of runners but it should look ok moving around

Cheers, Lee.