I notice that the closeup M113 pictures I've seen have metal sceening on top of the vents. Was this true of all of them, or only certain types? I would like to use some but I don't care to use an Eduard set which has a little too much detailing. Thank you.

Hi Tom
Eduard has released a Zoom set for the M113 engine grilles (#TP015) :



Should be a reasonable investment....

PS : the grille with the exhaust cut-out (part #2) may need some work to be fitted to a M113A2/A3 model

HTH

Frenchy

The screen will always be there. Keeps debris out of the intake. The ZOOM set is $5.46 at Squadron.

It will be good for some A2/A3 where the engine was converted from a A1. The grill will have an adaptor plate as shown here:
http://data3.primeportal.net/apc/dan_hay/m113a2/images/m113a2_092_of_132.jpg
so you can just snip the one corner off.

Paul

In a pinch, you can use nylon mesh or tule found in fabric shops (wedding veil material). There are two different types of mesh. A different type on each intake. They are simply tack welded into place and just keep out leaves and twigs like Paul stated. The intake closest to the driver's hatch has a much finer mesh. Compare this photo of an M901 (same mesh as any 113) with the grill of the photo Paul links to.

I recommend the Zoom sets if you don't want to use generic mesh. I have a set and they are nice.

I'm liking this "zoom" trend in the photo-etch sector. I don't want to spend 20 or 30 bucks for a pe set when really the main thing I want is screens. I think the 350 scale ship market has the right idea. There are sets selling for $100 that have everything in them including gun barrels, and propellors. And several different levels all the way down to just railings.