Here's two pics of my M4A1E8 hull I am converting the DML M51 into an M4A1E8 The engine deck and exhaust are from the Italeri M4A1 kit The tools are from Formations Models Great tools but a bit fragile when cutting them from the holders

Great job so far Good attention to detail. I agree the Formations tools are the tops. If you use a razor saw to remove them it is soooooo much easier and they clean up nicely too. Keep em comin'!!
Cheers,
Bryan

This is interesting, Chad. I'm taking a different route to the same result. I have a Dragon M4A3E8 and an Italeri M4A1 upper hull and rear end (with Tamiya aircleaners). I'm using the Dragon turretwith a Rubio barrel -- what turret are you using on yours?

Gotta love those Formations tools -- though they are fragile.

Great start on this build!

Bryan and Bob
Thanks for the kind words As far as the turret goes,I am using the Chesapeake Models late T-23 turret CMD 32 I believe It has the attachment points for the canvas on the gun mantlet,but no canvas

Looking good Chad, it is coming along very nicely I can't wait to see it finished

Zod, what was the original engine deck on the M51?

The M51 has a diesel engine with grills/covers in the top deck.

I did the same conversion a couple of years ago, certainly looks different and unusual! I used the Academy M51 and Italeri M4A1 76mm and just swapped the Italeri turret, hull details & deck stright into the Academy chassis.