Pedro,
The travel lock for the tube was one of the modifications to the basic 1/4 ton truck series that set it apart from the utility version. The racks for the rounds, the gunner seats, the tracks/locks for the RR rifle mount, allowing it to be mounted/dismounted by the crew, the radio mount, the relocation of the spare tire,, all of these modifications amounted to more than a simple addition to the basic truck, requiring the designation and change in production. The rear suspension was also made differently, that is, much stiffer, to support the weight of the rifle and mount. The suspension was so different, the operation of the truck without the rifle mounted was prohibited, as the handling was so affected by the removal of the weight.
The travel lock has a primary purpose of keeping the tube stationary when not actually in operation, that is, pointing at a target. If not restrained, the movement of the tube would eventually damage the ability of the mount to accurately acquire/hold a target reference.
Bottom line is, the mount was not an option, it was part of the package that essentially resulted in the M151A1C. In the travel mode, that meant with a windshield up, the tube really had an elevated appearrance, as it had to rise above the standard windshield. The M151-series RR trucks did not have a split windshield as found on earlier series vehicles (M38A1). The travel mount pedestal should be included.
Now, drop a Dragon 1/2 ton platform truck Mule with an M40 RR rifle next to your kit in a diorama,,, yours has the proper dark shade of semi-gloss, with correct style markings. Really good.
Jim Peterson
