I'm looking for additional information on exhaust deflector for M1 tank carried very often on Abrams tanks in Iraq.

I can easily work out dimensions and shape from photos, but I need info on the back side of the deflector. How is it attached to the tank exhaust? Are there any brackets, bolts, hooks, whatever on the inside of the deflector? Does anyone have any good photos or drawings of it?

This is the thing I'm talking about:




Pawel

We use these routinely at the Lima Tank Plant. The deflector is installed by removing the four 13mm bolts that secure the center exhaust grille attachment. Substituting the deflector is a 5 minute job.

Regards,

Steve

Pawel. I think I have a photo of what you need, but I can not post it here. Way too big. When I am home later I will try and PM it to you. Is your email address listed on your bio? If not I will need it to send to you. If I forget be sure to remind me.

Basically, there is a small bar a few inches down from the top and it has two hooks attached to that. That allows it to be hung off the grille. YOur first photo gives that indication that the bar is lower, ie not across the top, and it obviously lines up with the turret bin rail that it is attached to. There is no "interior" panel, just that bar. Crew are able to put things inside just because the items are trapped. If anybody would start to remove the deflector without first emptying the contents, the contents would fall to the ground.

Nice photos though. I have not seen them before. Anymore where they came from?

I have recently heard that these were made locally. That seems to make sense now as the one in your photo has the non-slip pattern embossed on it, as if it were taken from some scrap metal.

I wonder if Steve's method as mentioned is a little different than what they were doing in OIF1. My understanding is that they merely hooked the deflector on the frame that is already present. I'll have to ask Sgt Olson how they did theirs in OIF1.

Bob

The thread at ML covers it perfectly. My photo is of a 3rd ID type, and I forgot about the other bar(s). Basically, my photo is exacly what is diagramed, but instead of from the side it is shown from the inside.

Pawel. Check your PM. Out here.

Thanks a lot for all info, guys!!!

Pawel