What do I need to modify to backdate Dragon's M1A1HA kit to early M1A1 non-HA?

I want to use Armour Track Models T-156 tracks. What other changes are necessary? I want to build this model as a pre-ODS vehicle.

Rgds,
Pawel

Get Tamiya's M1A1. #:-)

Seriously though...

Perhaps leave off the mushrooms (if the Dragon M1A1HA kit has 'em) from the blast panels? Not sure really. If ever, the changes would most probably be at the turret.

Well, I already have two Dragon M1A1HA kits and just don't want to build them as the same version, so buying Tamiya kit is out of question. One kit I have is actually Revell of Germany kit, but it is the same Dragon plastic inside.

I know about these "mushrooms" on blast panels - Dragon kit has them, so I will skip them.

What about turret dimensions? Did added depleted uranium mesh increased the size of the turret, or was it fitted within the same external dimensions?

Rgds,
Pawel

Doghouse was different, I remember them changing it when they upgraded our GPS. The new one was much more "beefy." I don't have my DML kit in front of me, so I don't know if those two access doors are present on the back deck or not. An early M1A1 would not have these.

The smoke grenade boxes also changed. Our original M1A1s had boxes just like on our M60A3TTS tanks. The M1A1HA had a different type. On the old type, the lid lifted like a box. The newer type opened outward like a newspaper vending machine (is this a clear analogy?). Any way like something hinged at the bottom like a dishwasher or oven.

The depleted uranium layer was internal and I believe it would not be reflected in 1/35 scale since the size difference would be minimal in 1:1 scale. The weld lines changed on the roof of the turret indicating where the uranium mesh was added.

I also seem to recall that the amount of anti-slip coating changed from the M1A1 to the M1A1HA. The Heavy Common had more of the horizontal surfaces coated with this compound and that it was more pronounced (rougher).

But as you know, the big visual difference to the casual observer was the tracks, but an early M1A1 still running around today could have the newer style of track mounted. If I can think of any other differences, I'll post them later.

Thanks Rob!
I have much clearer picture now

Rgds,
Pawel