I came across this interesting photo of an M31 (T2) tank recovery vehicle, and thought I'd share it in case anyone was considering putting the Calibre M31 conversion kit to good use.

This photo was taken in Italy 1946, but this particular vehicle had soldiered all the way up the Italian boot during the wartime period. Note the dummy man gun tube, the extended boom, and the name "Big Weldon" stenciled on the side.

This vehicle served with the US 752nd Tank Battalion.

Hope this is of some use.

http://www.752ndtank.com/SpecialDGPage2.html

Bob Holt
http://www.752ndtank.com

That is super! Let's hope that one of our talented Soldiers model that picture.
thanks
DJ

Thanks for the picture. I love the fake 75mm barrel welded to the open sponson. You have to wonder how long that ruse lasted...

Shaun

Terrific picture Bob. I just so happen to know of someone that just got the Calibre 35 kit. This will come in handy.
Keep these great and rare pics coming.

Shaun,

Actually, the fake main gun tube was the standard configuration going back to the original conversion of M3's to M31's (T2's) in October 1942. All armament was removed, with the exception of a .30 MG in the bow mount next to the driver. A dummy gun was also welded to the rear of the turret so that when the turret was reversed, it gave the appearance of a fully armed M3.

Bob
http://www.752ndtank.com

I just found this one from the 3AD of another M31. Does this one use the same boom?

I believe that is in fact the same boom. A total of 509 T2's were produced according to the same specifications, between September 1942 and December 1943.

Bob Holt
http://www.752ndtank.com