Lynn,
Good point regarding the
effect (ie less likely to throw tracks) of the design changes, however the
reasons for the variations in design from the British MG/Bren carrier were not in regard to improvements in performance but "...firstly to standardise certain parts with similar parts on the light tank [Vickers Mk6A] and secondly to suit Australian production methods. The War Office was not advised before the variations were taken in hand." (Dept of the Army Memo to Secretary Military Board, 22-10-1941).
These variations caused some considerable problems, particularly in the ME when units were handed both Brit and Aust built carriers, and the spares situation for the Aust carriers did not keep pace with the usage. Result: grounded Aust carriers where available Brit spares could not be fitted.
Mike
