Rye Field Model 5162 – 1/35 M4A3 76W HVSS SHERMAN Full Interior / Clear Version

Rye Field Model 5162 – 1/35 M4A3(76)W HVSS Sherman Full Interior / Clear Version is a highly detailed model of the late-production American Sherman commonly associated with the “Easy Eight” configuration. This special Clear Edition combines a complete interior with transparent hull and turret components, allowing the internal structure to remain visible after assembly. Conventional opaque armor parts are also supplied, so the model can instead be completed as a standard fully enclosed Sherman. RFM5162 includes the Ford GAA engine, driver’s compartment, fighting compartment, detailed turret interior, individual-link T66 tracks, photo-etched parts and decals.

Historical Context & Theme

The M4A3(76)W HVSS represented one of the most developed wartime forms of the Sherman. The M4A3 used the Ford GAA V8 petrol engine, while the “76W” designation identified the 76 mm-armed configuration with wet ammunition stowage designed to reduce the risk of catastrophic ammunition fires.

The introduction of Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension, or HVSS, was another major improvement. Its wider tracks reduced ground pressure and improved mobility over difficult terrain compared with earlier VVSS-equipped Shermans. Production of the M4A3(76)W HVSS began at Detroit Arsenal in 1944, and vehicles reached U.S. combat units during the closing stages of the war in Europe.

The combination of the 76 mm gun, wet ammunition storage, Ford engine and wide-track HVSS running gear made this configuration one of the most capable production Shermans of World War II.

Figure / Vehicle Details & Realism

The principal feature of RFM5162 is its complete interior. Rye Field Model reproduces the Ford GAA engine compartment, driver and assistant-driver positions, central fighting compartment and the internal structure of the turret, including the gun installation, crew stations and associated equipment.

Transparent hull and turret armor parts allow these areas to be displayed without cutting away major sections of the finished tank. For modelers who prefer a conventional appearance, the box also contains standard opaque armor components, making the clear presentation optional rather than mandatory.

Individual-link T66 tracks accompany the characteristic HVSS suspension. The running gear is designed to remain workable, while the hatches can be displayed open or closed. Photo-etched parts provide additional refinement for finer details.

Diorama & Display Use

RFM5162 is particularly effective as a technical display because the transparent components reveal areas normally hidden inside an assembled Sherman. A partially clear build can highlight the engine, ammunition storage, fighting compartment and turret mechanism while retaining the external silhouette of the vehicle.

The conventional opaque parts also allow a historically finished late-war Sherman suitable for European 1944–45 scenes. Roadside advances, winter operations, maintenance areas and armored-column displays are all appropriate settings when matched to the selected markings and period references.

Material & Customization

RFM5162 is an unassembled and unpainted 1/35 injection-molded plastic model kit. Transparent and conventional opaque hull and turret components are included, together with clear parts, photo-etched details, individual-link T66 tracks and decals. Glue and paint are required separately.

The full interior makes careful planning important before final assembly. Modelers can paint and weather each compartment separately, use the transparent armor to showcase the completed work, or combine transparent and opaque panels for a more selective cutaway-style presentation.

Who It’s For

Rye Field Model 5162 is aimed at experienced Sherman enthusiasts, U.S. WWII armor modelers and builders who enjoy full-interior projects. The clear-body option is particularly attractive to modelers who want the mechanical and crew-compartment detail to remain visible rather than disappear once the hull is closed.