I'm into braille scale (yeal, I know). I would like to model a Canadian LAV III (Coyote?) but the only thing even resembling it is the ACE LAV-25. I would love to know how similar they are. I'm thinking that with enough source documents, it should be possible to modify an LAV-25 to a Coyote. The actual LAV-25 is now out of production, but there are several other variants still available. I am thinking about scratch building the turret, and let's face it, a little scratch building on an ACE kit would probably be an improvement anyway.

P. S. If I'm feeling really adventurous, I may even want to try a Stryker as well!

A Coyote and a LAV III aer not the same thing. A Coyote is similar to a LAV 25 and is based on the same LAV II Genneratioin 8x8 hull However it has wider tires, add on armour and asensor suite that is eiter on an extendable tower mounted in the left rear of the hull or in a grond deployable version. I believe Maple Leaf Models will be developing a conversion for the LAV 25 in the near future. The Trumpeter LAV 25 is the best start point for the Coyote.
A Canadian LAV III is the same hull as a Stryker, but with a Delco turret. There are also some stowage differences. Trackjam Models is developing a conversion for this vehicle for release mid 07.

HI

Good to hear you are working on a LAV III conv. The conspiracy theorists may believe you already have a STRYKER since you are "developing" it.

:-)

Regardless, I look fwd to seeing the end product.

Tom

A conversion for a LAV III? Oh please don't be teasing me. Such a mean looking machine must make it to my collection someday!

Pretty much the only similarity is the manufacturer.

A picture is worth 1000 words.

Well you certainly will have your work cut out for you. It looks like the only similarity is 8 wheels. If the force is with us maybe a 1/72 Stryker kit will come out soon and give you a closer start point.

Tom

Everything I have read says that a USMC LAV-25 (Gen I) and a Canadian Coyote (Gen II) are the same basic hull with the Coyote being slightly changed and modified to meet the needs of the Canadian Army. These upgrades included a beefier suspension, improved fire controls, new exhaust sytem, etc. The basic hull remained the same though.

Now I got ya. It was actually how the slide was already labeled, I didn't label it. But you are correct that it is a Canadian Coyote, not a USMC LAV-25.