TBF/TBM Avenger - What's the Diff?

Techncially, the TBFs were built by Grumman and the TBMs were built by General Motors. Both companies made the 1/1C versions, while only GM made the -3 version. The TBF kit is going to be a -1C version, while the TBM will be a -3. The main physical difference will be the different cowl flaps and oil cooler scoop in the lower cowl on the -3 version. Also, if the box pictures are accurate, the -3 will have the zero-length rocket rails under the wing, while the -1C kit will not. The box art also shows different color schemes, tri-color for the TBF-1C and overall GSB for the TBM-3, but that is a function of the markings chosen, not a difference between the versions.

Dave

There's some difference in the location of the forward firing gun, too, IIRC. My reference book is on loan (someone, somewhere) so I can't check the facts, but I'm sure I'm right.

RobG

IIRC, the Grumman aricraft had Dull Dark Green cockpit areas (but the turret of radio operator's station were regular interior green) while the Eastern aircraft were overall interior green inside.

FWIW: TBF-1, 1 X synchronized .30 in the starboard cowling. TBF/TBM-1C, 1 X .50 in each wing.

Bill Shuey

The -1 had a single .50 cal in the nose. The -1C and -3 (which are the two versions Trumpeter are doing) both had a .50 cal in each wing.

Dave

Sorry, should be a single .30 in the nose for the -1. My bad.

The TBF was manf by Grumman were the TBM was made under license by GM. Bill W

The earlier versions had a radio operator placed in the rear part of the cockpit, while the later didn't have. Different equipment should be visible under the glass.