while researching photos for my M51 105mm sherman 2 things came to lightI had not realized before. first is what seems to be a drain hole on the M4a1 just below the fan between driver and asst,driver hatches. Second are plugs/ holders on the inside of each light guard,approx. 1" x 3/4 "long. they seem to have screw on covers.Anyone can tell meif I'm right about the hole(actualy found by friend) and what the attachments are for?

Josh Weingarten
aKa shiryon

I believe the hole you refer to is just a drainage hole to keep water from gathering in the vent.

The cylinders on headlight guards are plugs for the headlight sockets when the headlights are removed. The plugs keep dirt and stuff out of the socket holes. They unscrew from the holder (which is welded to the guard) and screwed into the socket. A small chain keeps them from getting lost. Look at photos of other U.S. WWII vehicles and you'll see them all over the place. Most modelers forget to add these to their models and they are easy to make with a small peice of rod.

This is the second time I gotta say thanks in 2 min Bob.

Josh Weingarten Aka shiryon