Anybody have an idea on how the IR searchlight on the Type 61 is wired? I know the Type 74 had a cable that ran from the rear of the light, along the left side of the turret, to a receptical to the rear of the smoke grenade dischargers. PhotosI have found with the IR light fitted all seem to be from a distance or from the right side.

According to the caption, the hole on the upper right is for the searchlight cable :



The plug and most of the cable are hidden when the mantlet canvas cover is installed.



EDIT : just found out the top picture comes from this album :

http://type61tank.la.coocan.jp/sub-type61tank.htm

H.P.

I guess this may be interesting as well :

http://nendokun.cocolog-nifty.com/blog/2018/01/post-6b03.html

In fact there are 2 cables connected to the searchlight, one being thinner than the other.

H.P.

Once again , Frenchy, you are a wizard. Looks like the cable came off the unit, ran down to the mount, and then under the mantle cover.Much cleaner set up than the Type 74. Ran into another question. The Fine Molds kit does not have the spade grips for the .50 cal. Did FM screw the pooch or did the Type 61 have a remote trigger in the cupola?

You're welcome Timothy Looks like the FM guys have done their homework :



Full size



Full size



Full size



Full size

H.P.

Great. I was having nightmares about trying to scratch build the grip or finding one in the spares box.

Here, Frenchy, so you know your info is being utilized ..... Just need to weather a bit more ..... a little dust ... and dullkote. Oh! and I suppose I should add a hull to it.

How is the kit?
Hulls are good.
Dan

It's the Fine Molds kit. Head and shoulders over the Tamiya 1970 kit. (FM's was tooled in 2014). FM also has two kits, original and updated .... Original builds a 1966 version. Updated builds up to a 2000 version. IR was added in 69. Smoke grenade launchers in 82, two tone camo in 87. Type was retired in 2000. Tamiya's is good till retirement, but without the night fighting ability. Detail seems good with out a billions & billions part count and 5 pounds of PE. Tracks are link and lead. (fine by me.) One thing I AM dreading is the engine deck. It has a slew load of teeny - tiny handles for the engine covers and such. I'm adapting to loss of vision in my left eye and little parts and iffy depth perception make thing "fun".