I was under the impression that the removal of the axle cradles and winch arms were when in Portuguese service.
My Genelco 3.7 also has these parts removed and it is ex portuguese (last user),it does have a handle bar fitted along the axle so it can be manhandled away from the gun.
It would be good if someone could confirm that this modification as being Wartime or later.
Rob..................rnixartillery.