Carrier Questions - Wasp and VIN

[bobbygee]

Two Questions:
1. Was the Wasp variant with the flamethrower in the bow gun position ever equipped with a 4 inch smoke discharger also.
2. If I have a Ford Universal Carrier VIN number can I determine where and when it was manufactured, the version and variant, etc.?
Looking forward to, and grateful for, input and answers,
Bob

[Michael R.]

Note the provision for, but discharger not fitted?

I find these images are rich with detail, showing CT numbers, some of the conversion items and method of refitting the Mk. I* to Mk. II* standard. Invasion fittings for deep fording plates, the Regiment being the first on the beach June 6th, '44. What started life as a Mk. I* is now quite different.


Queen's Own Rifles of Canada. 29 July, 1944, near Vaucelles, France. The WASP section O.I.C. is Lt. Stan Biggs. The detailed crew images shows Riflemen W.T. Orten and H.H. Pennell. Photo Credits of Archives Canada, MIKAN 3525739.

[Lynn Eades]

Hi, and welcome to the forum.
Do you mean the external Bracket on the right hull side?
I Dont know the answer to your question, but I suspect not. I think the external bracket was only fitted to early carriers, and I think the Flame thower carriers came along later.
I read somewhere lately that all the carriers after a certain production point were factory finished, With the holes, to be able to be fitted with a F.T.kit.