[oztankboy]

Hi there Ian!

Well will start 1st up with the "5 tubes".

Well they are know by several names, growsers, cleats etc... they are clamped on to the track (*about 1 ever 4th track block) to provide additional grip when needed. e.g. on ice, mud, sand etc. But are removed when on hard surfaces like on tarmac roads.

Now to the next part...

The M5 series Stuart was a fast (35mph +) and manooverable little tank. More so once the obsoleate 37mm gun and turret was removed. As a gun tractor for the 6pdr A/T gun it provided the gun crew and ammo a higher degree of protection than say a weapons carrier or CMP could ever hope to do and in many situations better cross country traveling.

I certainly know what I would rather be in when the hot lead started to fly!

Phil...