I am preparing to create a diorama with a M1A1 being refuled by a M978 HEMTT. I just have a question about this kit. I have done several Italari Kits and I have been less than impressed with the fit/quality control of the kits. At any rate I am just looking for some feedback from anyone that has put this kit together. Heck while I am at it anyone that has any information on figures that would be appropriate for my diorama, that would be great too.

First off, welcome to the forum, there are many great people here, and you'll learn things you had never thought about.
I'm not sure about about the HEMMTT fueler by Italeri, I just bought one from modelexpo...check out the thread in general modelling section....10 bucks for one. I'll let you know in a few days about the quality. Ihavent really heard any bad things about them
I love the Idea for the diorama, I was actually thinking of doing the same thing, thats why I bought the HEMMTT. I'm thinking of doing a LOGPAC diorama......with all classes of supply.....If you need a few tips, or technical stuff, feel free to give a holler, I've been in M1's since 1988, and have refueled, cleaned, rebuilt, fired, fixed, etc almost everything on it.

Welcome to the board......
John

I believe the pump system leaves something to be desired in the Italeri kit.
Someone makes a resin conversion for it. You may also want to put correct wheels/tire on it.
Rob's M978 Tanker

HTH
Matt

1) AASLTmodeler : welcome to this site !
2) John : stop telling us about your life with M1's, you make me drool all over this keyboard
3) You're absolutely right, Matt. It IS a great kit, though. If you want it perfect, there's a great aftermarket update kit that was discussed in this forum before : Here's the whole HEMTT story. Follow till the bottom !
That fuelling stuff is gonna be a nice diorama !

Wear a bib then...
My offer stands.....any info you need regarding an NCO's version of an M1A1, give me a holler

John....

All the guys are correct! Replace the tires for sure. Also, Eduard has a nice photo etch set, but it is entended for the cargo version, but will still be usefull for the fuller. Check out my pictures of the HEMTT in the modern armor gallery. One of the HEMTT, I extended the boom and out riggers.
Like John said, there are alot of guys here with lots of info, especially us current and ex military guys. We are always willing to help.

Welcome to Armorama.com!

CAM makes replacement tires for this kit and I would definately get those for this kit.

Although I have seen this kit built, I hear that the fit of the tank portion is off and will take some doing to get it to fit properly. Basically that bad rap is what's holding me off on building the one that I have. I for one would be VERY INTERESTED in your progress!

Thanks,
Kevin Keefe
Mortars in Miniature

Somebody made a set that wouldl et you turn it into a recovery vehicle
http://www.argo.net.au/jbwhole/reviews/hobbyfan/hf007.htm don't know if they still make this conversion but I would look at the shows for it looks real good. Plus here is site for wheels http://www.bentbutnotbroken.com/TankWorkshop.htm (:-)
Welcome aboard

I heard it's horribly expensive, and I was not able to find one yet. But it sure looks like a superb kit !

Jan

Hobby Fan Jan the same folks that make skybow. I know you are right on the price big bucks but sure is one different model. I could not also find it I guess one of those limited run things. To bad though as that crane looked killer. (:-)