Carrier AOP

[mudeng]

Hi,
I'm afraid a little cheating took place, the cable reels are a bought item, so the width was kinda governed by that.
I think I am correct in saying that the MkIIIw was produced solely as an AOP vehicle. This comes from the references in "Making Tracks", plus info from a preface in one of the instruction manuals, which also lists engine types. This is pretty much what I have seen in Nigels very informative article.
Though not exhaustive in research, I have yet to see a MKIII in other roles, than the AOP, though with all the gear stowed, it is sometimes difficult to see the layout of the engine deck.
The main differences would appear to be the upper air inlet is blanked off, the obvious "shuftee shutter" on the bulged front, a single central headlamp, and I think the front valances were the earlier style, not the "ribbed" style as on the MkII.
david Fletchers book on the Carrier does state that MkI carriers were updated to the MkII configuration, different fittings, hinged section to the front bulge, and front valances
My query on the cable reel holder, is that from the photo I sent, it looks very much like a cast item, rather than fabricated.

George.