Hi all - just going on from my last post the following is an extract from Mike Cecil's Profile book on Carriers. I'm in constant touch with the new owner who is picking it up in the near future. Then I'll be there with the camera and start a new thread on this unique Carrier.
"During 1944, an improved model or the MG Carrier was designed and a pilot model built by modifying LF’2A Carrier with hull number 4428. This incorporated a number of modifications and improvements which had previously been tested at various times on the model LP2A, but not incorporated into any single Carrier. The result was designated the “Carrier, MG (Aust) No.3” or “LP3’
DESCRIPTION
The LP3 was similar in overall design and layout to the LP2A Carrier then in service, having an all welded hull of ABP3 plate and crew of four. It also used the same engine, transmission, armament and basic equipment. There were, however, a number of differences, both major and minor, which were designed to improve the overall performance and handling characteristics of the locally produced Carrier.
The most visible difference from the LP2A Carrier was in the steering, as the LP3 was fitted with steering which acted on the front track adjuster wheel. This form of steering had been fitted experimentally to an LP2 Carrier, with hull number 3168, and to an LP2A Carrier, with hull number 2496, as early as November 1942. Though the initial results were mixed, they were encouraging enough for further development and the information gained from these earlier experiments helped in the design of the steering used on the LP3 Carrier. Front wheel steer was also a feature of the Australian I-ton tracked truck".
Bob
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