Metal replacement track recommendations, Tamiya M26

[BarryC]

Gents,

I have purchased a Tamiya full option M26 and I am looking for recommendations for metal replacement tracks. Reading about them; what is difference between "closed" and "open" pins?

TIA,
Barry

[PainlessWolf]

BarryC, Good afternoon,
If you plan on running your tank a lot, it's the difference between cursing and not cursing as you try to replace a pin in the field ( much like the original tankers ) If you opt for open pin metal tracks on that Tamiya, take the time to periodically touch the anterior end of each track pin with a little drop of Loc-Tite. Seriously tho' you should give the kit's nylon tracks a run for a while first. Easier on your gearboxes and top drawer stuff for the money. Later, if and when you need replacements, then opt for the metal tracks and stronger motors, idler brace, etc.
regards,
Painless

[wibblywobbly]

I guess it depends on the reason for wanting the after market tracks, if you are replacing like with like, then I would say stick with the Tamiya as they are bullet proof. If you have built something like a Super Pershing and want to fit different tracks, and I think that they are only available in metal, then yes, it's the only way you can go. The next issue is that most aftermarket metal sprockets are made to fit HL/Taigen final drive shafts, so some work may be required to fit the sprockets. If the tracks fit the standard Tamiya sprockets then its a straight swap.

I have seen Tamiya Super Pershings with aftermarket tracks, so there must be a way of swapping them, as they all use the Pershing lower hull and Tamiya internals. Closed pin tracks are totally secure, open pin ones do need to be checked occasionally, if they work loose and move inwards the pin will happily score the paint, and catch on the hull. The track link will also of course half-seperate and the tank comes to a grinding halt. If you are in the middle of a field without any tools you are going to have a problem straightening the pin and getting it back in, hence the loc-tite advice given by Painless.

[tomhugill]

Gents,

I have purchased a Tamiya full option M26 and I am looking for recommendations for metal replacement tracks. Reading about them; what is difference between "closed" and "open" pins?

TIA,
Barry

Closed pin means the whole of the pin is running through a hole in the track links. In an open pin design usually only the end of the track are fully enclosed. This means the tracks have less load bearing area so area not as strong.

I have to agree with painless the stock tracks do an excellent job. If I was replacing them it would be to use a different track variant that isn't in plastic, rather than for performance purposes.

[tomhugill]

If you do go the metal track route impact tracks are excellent (from mitosal.com)

[BarryC]

Hi fellows,

I appreciate your input and suggestions. My primary reason for wanting metal is for added the weight they bring. I plan on using the lower hull and drive to scratch build either a M48 or M60 Patton on. It is a long term project so right now I am studying and considering options.

Thanks again,
Barry

[Afrikakorps]

I have just finished my Tamiya M26 and was thinking about the tracks, so thanks PBW , WW and TH for your advice.
Cheers
AK