There is a bolted part between the hatches:



Tamiya's T-34/76 UTZ lacks it. I want to know if all T-34/76 '43 (hexagonal turret) have this part so I can scribe the lines and add the bolts. The image belongs to randeeak47 from the Tanks and Things Forum, used only for discussion. Thanks a lot in advance for your answers. Best regards.

José.

Hi José

Based on my references, the bolted segment between the hatches where found on hexagonal T-34s produced at the UZTM factory. However, it wasn't found on tanks (at least most of them) produced at other factories such as No. 183 or No. 112. I can only assume that this panel was a standard element of the design, but was omitted by some factories to simplify production. As I understand it, that detachable panel’s purpose was to allow the removal of the fuel tanks without removing the entire turret.

I would say that if you want your model to represent one produced at UZTM, include the panel. If you want it to represent another factory, you can leave it off.

Good luck

Jon has it right though I will say that I have seen the segment on a few tanks from 183.
On the example that I had the opportunity to crawl all over the piece was actually cast steel and was bolted from the inside. The little "pips" you see on the outside are the ends of the bolts.
It does seem to have been deleted later in production. Certainly I haven't seen evidence of them on any turret with the commander's cupola fitted (though I'm sure there must be a refitted example out there somewhere).

Mark

Thank you for your replies, I think I'll make that part and some other improvements. Best regards.

José.