Tamiya - 1/16 R/C M4 Sherman 105mm Howitzer (Mechanical Steering

M4 Sherman

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 strongpoints 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.

Features