I'm detailing the interior of the Heller VAB kit and I am a bit stumped. Does anyone know whether troops fold up the benches (or the seat pads) in the back when they are standing up in the rear hatches? I can't find any reference pics.

Thanks!

Brian K.
Laurel, MD

Hi
no they don't fold up the bench seats. That's one of the problems with the VAB, the bench seat is "too long" so if you want to fold it up to stand out of the hatch 2 more soldiers would have to stand up too which is impossible. The only variant that offers such a possibility is the Milan antitank variant which has a single seat for the Milan gunners on each side.

Generally, soldiers have one leg resting on the floor and the other one bent on the bench seat. You may see some stupid guys with both legs on the bench. I say stupid because the consequence is them raising too high above the hatch which is really hazardous in case of traffic accident or simply in operation by being an easier target for the bad guys.
The only time the benches are folded up is when the VAB is used as a cargo vehicle. They can be fully removed too, they are attached to the hull thanks to "sliding" brackets. No welding, no bolts. It's really easy to do and regularly done when washing the inside.

If you intend anyway to fold the bench, be aware that Heller parts should be at least modified or better scratched. I have a couple of VABs in my site (real ones and models), have a look at them, may this could help you.
Have you the Eduard interior set for your project ? It's not totally perfect but is quite good to improve the poor Heller interior.

Olivier (former VAB commander)

Merci Olivier! That is what I suspected, but it is very nice to get confirmation from an authority such as yourself. I will check out your website site pics for addition details.

Thanks again.

Brian K.
Laurel, MD

Brian you got me blushing I'm just glad to share some experience. Don't forget to show your build.

Olivier