The Modelling News: Preview : MiniArt's 35th scale M3 Stuart Diesel Early Production

Another variant of the early model M3 is the diesel version. Made in parallel to the petrol-engined Lee, this one from MiniArt has all the trimmings & three marking choices. See more in our preview...

Preview : MiniArt's 35th scale M3 Stuart Diesel Early Production

MiniArt M3 Stuart Diesel Early Production

From MiniArt Models

1/35th scale

Kit No #35417

Decals for three options in the box

Photo-etch parts included

Product Link on the MiniArt Website

The M3 Stuart (Diesel) Light tank:

The M3 Stuart (diesel early) was an early variant of the American light tank used during World War II, powered by a diesel engine for better fuel efficiency and range. Armed with a 37mm gun, it retained the speed, agility, and reliability characteristic of the Stuart series. This variant saw action in various theatres, including North Africa and the Pacific, primarily serving in reconnaissance and support roles for Allied forces.

One of the three art choices in this kit, we see a selection of photographs taken of the 8th tank division of the American army formation at the Fort Knox in 1942-1943.

Another shot of the same tank undergoing chemical warfare manoeuvres in training in 1942.

The early M3 and M3A1 models were equipped with an air-cooled radial engine, being either a gasoline-powered 7-cylinder Continental W-670 or the 9-cylinder Guiberson T-1020 diesel (1,496 units manufactured). Both of these power sources were initially designed for aircraft use. Within the tank's hull, the radial engine was located at the rear, while the transmission was positioned at the front. A driveshaft, running through the centre of the fighting compartment, connected the engine and transmission. The radial engine's crankshaft, situated high above the hull bottom, contributed to the tank's considerable height.

The first tanks had riveted turrets and were delivered without guns because they were rushed to training units. These were installed later.

These tanks were training in Georgia in 1941. Note the same US Star & placement of serial numbers, a little like the ones in the marking choices.

The kit from MiniArt
MiniArt's new-tooled 1/35th scale M3 Stuart - Diesel - Early Production kit features - as it says on the tin, a complete with three marking choices included in this model. This kit doesn't have an interior to build, so it will be a quick but still detailed build for the modeller.

The CADs showing the makeup and look of the completed kit...

The sprues of this kit:
There are nineteen sprues in grey plastic in this kit. This includes the whole interior of the tank, engine, crew compartment and ammo included.

There is one photo-etch fret for this kit also to replicate the finer details of the vehicle.

Decals: MiniArt has made one small sheet for the markings of the tanks and stencils, plus national insignia.

Marking choices:
The kit includes decals for three units, including the 2nd Armoured Division (1941), 80th Armoured Regiment (1942), and the U.S. Marine Corps at Guadalcanal (1942).