Panzerkampfwagen IV-Medium Tank

[cyberia]

A dark photo and a lot of obstruction of detail, but my guess is a Pz. IV Ausf. E

[Hagen]

Originally Posted by cyberia

Perhaps a Syrian Panzer IV. What do you think, Hagen?

Thats exactly what I was thinking. Photos of the sides of this panzer show sheet metal storage(?) boxes that aren't on any WW2 "J".

[Hagen]

Here's a picture of the "Late J" thats in an Israeli museum, the box on the front, there's an identical one on the other side, wasn't original manufacture. The spare track holder on the side however is, and is seen on all "J" versions.

[cyberia]

Two photos of the Panzer IV Ausf. E...

[cyberia]

Panzer IV Ausf. B

The suspension shown here on this early model Pz. IV proved so durable it remained unaltered on subsequent Pz. IV models throughout the war.

[PanzerBob]

Originally Posted by Hagen

Hello PanzerBob

I have to differ with you on a few points here, the "J" model started production with four return rollers and an exhaust the same as the H and previous models. About the only external difference between the H and early J model was the deletion of the turret traverse motor, in it's place was put a larger fuel tank. The "J" model you're referring to is is considered a late "J" just as Tigers are considered early, mid, and late, the Panzer IV J is considered in terms of early and late. You can go to Achtung Panzer ! and if you read up on the "J" you'll find the three return rollers and twin exhausts came later in the production run. If you want to compare model kits check out Tamiya's Panzer IV J then compare that kit to Dragons Panzer IV J Late. Your definition is right on the mark for a late J though.

Good day Hagen

I must admit I had Normandy blinders on when I was IDing that Panzer IV. I thank you for pointing out the progressive nature of the J's coming into being. Armour identification can be quite the kettle of fish at the best of times and I was remiss in muddying the waters.

I should have been clear that besides the ID features, it was more that the picture in question was a 2nd Division Panzer IV, taken in Normandy, most likely pre D Day and therefore most likely Ausf H. The Hero Shot nature of the photo also makes it more likely a pre D Day shot IMHO.

I can see why the H/J designation is slung on some many Panzer IV pictures; it was some months before Late Ausf J's were rolling off the production lines. The other factor one must be aware of is the interchangeabity of parts and the creations that occur when the mechanics were getting Panzers battle worthy.

Another good source of info for Panzers etc is included below.


Bob out

AFV DB Panzer 4 J

[kostas13]

Hi guys ,searching in my files and found this pictures BULGARIAN Pz-IV.....in limited number in the net.But i d'not remember the type of this......the more from them is late Ausf.G - early.H.......enjoy

[Pirate-Drakk]

Nice pics Kostas13!

[McCoy]

Originally Posted by cyberia

Panzer IV Ausf. B

The suspension shown here on this early model Pz. IV proved so durable it remained unaltered on subsequent Pz. IV models throughout the war.

Nice photo mate but it appears to be an Ausf. A, just look at the cupola mate.

[Horch]

Originally Posted by kostas13

Hi guys ,searching in my files and found this pictures BULGARIAN Pz-IV.....in limited number in the net.But i d'not remember the type of this......the more from them is late Ausf.G - early.H.......enjoy

Yes. Some interesting pics there. Thanks!