1/16 Tamiya RC M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer Mechanical Steering System 56048

Tamiya 1/16 RC M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer with Mechanical Steering System

The Sherman tank was a staple of the Allied effort in WWII, with a total of about 50,000 vehicles produced, among which were a host of different variants such as the M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer, a variant used in fire support. The M4 hull featured rolled steel plates, and it employed a 9-cylinder air-cooled radial engine in the rear which powered the front sprockets via a 5-speed transmission with reverse; the 105mm gun fired howitzer rounds, smoke rounds and incendiary ammunition. The late production vehicle had horizontal vertical spring suspension (HVSS) of which 840 units were produced. It was used for infantry support as well as taking part in assaults on enemy strong points from Europe to the Pacific Theater.

Controlled Differential Steering System

In WWII, the average tracked vehicle used a clutch brake system, whereby the sprocket on the turning side was braked to create a difference in speed between the tracks and let the vehicle turn. While it did enable pivot turns on the spot by completely stopping one track, it required considerable skill to operate, not to mention the fact that it experienced mechanical power loss and a tendency to overheat the brakes. On the other hand, the M4 Sherman used a controlled differential system that braked a sprocket wheel via a differential gear: as the turning side track slowed, the other track sped up, leading to smooth turns and in one fell swoop both minimizing mechanical loss and negating brake overheating issues. This system was also employed on the M24, the M8, and the M2 high speed tractor, vehicles which all contributed to the eventual success of the Allied WWII campaign.

About the Model

• This is a 1/16 scale R/C model assembly kit
• Just like the actual tank, the model uses a controlled differential steering system
• Metal components are used for drive sprockets, suspension arms and idler wheelbases
• The horizontal vertical suspension spring (HVSS) uses metal coil springs
• Pre-assembled plastic tracks use metal pins and connectors

Mechanical Steering System

A differential gear transfers power from the Type 540 motor. When the tracks rotate at the same speed the model moves in a straight line, turning as the track speeds differ. Transmitter commands cause servo movement, which in turn slows the turning side track via one of the brake discs in the differential. A planetary gearbox in the differential unit speeds up the unbraked track.

Specifications

• 1/16 scale R/C model assembly kit. Length: 376mm, width: 183mm, height: 205mm
• Updated gearbox recreates the Cletrac steering system just like the actual tank
• One Type 540 motor is included
• When turning right and left, servo works for braking and differential gears generate rotation differences of right and left sprockets
• Independence of steering and throttle handling allows the ease of operation of wheel-type transmitter
• Includes full ball bearings
• Includes ESC (electronic speed control)
• DMD CONTROL UNIT & DMD Multi-Function Unit not included or used with this product
• Required to complete: 2-channel radio, servo, 7.2volt battery with compatible charger, and Tamiya paints

Product Information

Scale: 1/16 scale R/C assembly model kit

Prototype: Replicates the late-production M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer, a fire support variant from WWII

Steering System: Features a realistic, updated mechanical controlled differential steering system which replicates the actual tank's Cletrac setup, allowing smooth turning without power loss. A servo activates brake discs to slow one track, while a planetary gearbox speeds up the other

Construction: Utilizes durable materials including a combination aluminum and ABS plastic chassis. Key structural and drivetrain components such as the drive sprockets, suspension arms, and idler wheelbases are crafted from metal for durability

Suspension: The Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension (HVSS) is functional and uses real metal coil springs

Tracks: Pre-assembled plastic tracks connected with metal pins and connectors for added realism and reliability

Motor & Electronics: Includes one powerful Type 540 brushed motor and an Electronic Speed Control (ESC). Full ball bearings are included throughout the assembly

Dimensions: Length: 376mm, Width: 183mm, Height: 205mm

Additional Features: Includes a detailed commander figure, an M2 heavy machine gun replica, and separately molded accessories like a shovel, axe, and jack

Explore more Tamiya R/C models and Tamiya products at MPM Hobbies. Visit the official Tamiya USA website for more information.