My latest build is an M151A2 1/4 ton truck (jeep) in the late '80s-early '90s with a ROPS (Roll-Over Protection System) cage. I find it an interesting mod to protect the crew in the event of a roll-over, which didn’t really happen with the A2 version. The roll-over problems were in the M151 and M151A1 with the rear suspension/wheel tucking under in a quick turn, causing the vehicle to roll. The M151A2 had a modified rear suspension that corrected the problem.
I started mine using a Tamiya M151A2 kit. To it, I have added 3D printed parts from our own James Lee (@Petition2God). He has a whole set of M151 upgrade parts. I have used a grill with hollowed out headlights, front upper a-arms, underbody plates, NATO slave cable adaptor, front bumper, and fuel filler. I have also used parts from the Legend M151 update set. I used the pedals, turn signal, and a few other smaller items. I will also use the seats from this set.
Here it is so far, showing the 3D parts (dark grey parts) well.
I got flipping in one after being hit with an improved Molotov cocktail. I was sitting in the rear facing jump seat and came to in the driver’s seat with my teeth imbedded into the steering wheel. . Fun times..
A small update today. I added a few more pieces underneath. I added a cross member that Tamiya missed. I also added the front steering components; steering gear box, pitman arms, tie rod, and steering arms.
It’s getting closer. I have added the NATO camo to the jeep and started painting the smaller subassemblies. The green is sprayed Tamiya NATO Green, the black and brown are hand painted.
Lastly, I modified the seat frames so they properly fold forward. I used some thick wire for the bent down supports and a thinner piece of styrene rod for the crossbar. Some left over PE fret make up the hinge mounts that attach to the floor.
I weathered it up a bit with a couple different dry-brushes using a sandy color and an earth-brown color. A bit of gunmetal was applied in various spots to show wear as well. I marked it as the XO’s (HQ 5) vehicle from 2-319 FA Bn, 82d ABN. I added a couple radios to the back: an AN/VRC-12 w/a VINSON encryption device on one side, and an RT-542A w/a VINSON on the other side, both with handsets and wired up. I also added a fire extinguisher between the front seats and painted the fuel can w/a red top to denote gasoline.
I added a few pieces of gear (M16A1 w/30 rd. magazine, Kevlar helmet, binos, and a mapsheet) on the hood and may eventually add a couple figures on a small base.
Carlos, I bet your bud had a similar M151 with similar radios.
James, the VINSONS were in a Series-46 radio set that our own Mike "@MikeyBugs Goldberg designed and had on Shapeways. I asked him to add the file to Cults 3D as well. Hopefully he does as it was a great set.
