One more Abrams tank question, is it any big differrence between M1A1 version to M1A2 version on the lower hull ( the complete chassie i mean without the turret) I only wounder because i thinking of buying the new Rye field model Abrams with interior for my M1ABV model? Any one that know if they look the same on the lower hull..
Thanks

I remember Vodnik mentioned somewhere that all the M1 series tanks share the same lower-hull. So supposedly they must be identical.

This makes me come up with another question: Has length of the M1's turret changed since M1A1? The turret of M1A2 SEP V2 looks somehow longer than the previous versions.

I second CowboyfromHell. At least the drivers compartment could be used with the M1 ABV. But no one ever saw pics of the ABV turret interior.

Yes and no to your questions about the lower hull.

Exterior has slight differences between the A1 and A2 versions, mostly with the left rear deck area. Originally that area was a fuel cell on the M1's and A1's, then they took the fuel cell out and put in APU(Aux Power Unit), and another changed was/is Hawker Batteries for back up power.

Drivers compartment have slight differences between the A1 and A2. The A2 changed from dials on the the left side to digital screens.

Length in the hulls between the different variants haven't changed. They might look shorter or longer between each one because of the extended bustle rack added to the regular bustle rack.

Thanks all, but Pete is it a so big difference on the hull that you see it on the kit?

Yes, the big difference is on the left rear hull.

On the A1, the hull is smooth and only has a fuel filler cap.

On the A2, the left rear is totally different w/no fuel filler cap, but a couple doors and access panels for either the APU or the Hawker Batteries. It is slightly different for each.

The Rye Field kit can build as either an M1A2 or an M1A2, with parts for either the APU or Hawker Battery compartment. It would be fine to use the Rye Field kit hull for an M1 ABV.

I echo what Gino said, go for the RFM kit, it comes with 3 left rear deck panels, plus standard M1A1 parts.

I meant M1A1 or an M1A2.

In short, the RFM kit will work just fine.

Thanks Gino and Pete

Remember, all M1A2 SEP tanks are rebuilt from M1IP or M1A1 tanks. Just like M1A1AIM tanks are rebuilt M1A1 tanks. Lower hull dimensions are the same, but with changes in the upper hull with more modern features.