1944 Magirus-Deutz RSO/03 Full-Track | The National Military History Center | RM Sotheby's

Lot 135

The National Military History Center

1944 Magirus-Deutz RSO/03 Full-Track

{{lr.item.text}}

$39,000 USD | Sold

United States | Auburn, Indiana

{{internetCurrentBid}}

{{internetTimeLeft}}

Results
Details Additional Information
language
Identification No.
NA
Addendum: All military vehicles and artifacts offered in this sale are sold "As Is" and "For collector purposes only". These military vehicles and artifacts should never be loaded and/or fired with any ammunition. We make no warranty and/or representations as to the suitability or fitness of these items for use. By purchasing military vehicles and artifacts you hereby and irrevocably waive any and all claims against Auctions America by RM, Inc. and agree to indemnify and hold harmless Auctions America by RM, Inc. from any injuries or death associated with these military vehicles and artifacts. Please note, there may be an associated licensing fee based on the location of licensing, and bidder must satisfy himself as to all licensing and import requirements in his home state or country.

Please Note: Information regarding these museum display vehicles was provided by the National Military History Center and has not been independently verified by Auctions America by RM ("AA"). As such, AA does not verify, warrant or guarantee any of this information. Prior inspection and research by the buyer is highly encouraged and recommended.

ATTENTION: Buyers are responsible for securing transportation and moving/loading of lots. Lot may be left on display indefinitely in the museum free of charge with a signed loan agreement form. Lots are sold as is, where is.

Please note this is being sold on "Bill of Sale" only.

Manufacturers: Magirus-Deutz, Cologne, Germany

Production Year: 1944

Engine: No Engine or Transmission - specifications call for: Deutz F4L514, 5.3-liter, 65-hp, air-cooled, four-cylinder, diesel

Length: 14-feet, 6-inches

Width: 6-feet, 8-inches

Height: 8-feet, 4-inches

Weight: Approximately 3.8-tons

Armor: None

Armament: NONE on this example – (some were converted to 2.0-cm self-propelled flak mounts)

Maximum Road Speed: 11-mph

Maximum Towing Capacity: 3-tons

Markings: German Army, 331st Infantry Division, 1943-1944 sand with green and brown camouflage paint scheme

The RSO/03 or Rapenschlepper-Ost (tracked tractor-east), replaced the original model (RSO/01) in production starting in 1944. The RSO/03 had a significantly simplified cab with wooden panels and metal frames that greatly reduced production time and costs. The majority of RSO tractors produced were of the RSO/03 type. The RSO/03 could carry a load of approximately 1-1/2-tons. Steering was accomplished through a pair of upright steering levers connected to hydraulic brakes on the sprockets and idlers - much in the same way as a typical World War II tank. The steering / braking system made proved to be a challenge for even the most experienced driver. The low top speed of 11-mph helped minimize wear and tear to the engine and transmission. RSO tractors proved very useful, especially on the Eastern Front, where most of the tractors were deployed. The RSO/03 was used extensively by towed artillery units. The objects mounted on the cargo box racks were called “grousers.” Grousers could be attached to the tracks to increase flotation on mud and snow. Magirus-Deutz of Cologne, Germany manufactured a total of 15,557 of the RSO/03 tractors from 1944 to 1945.

You may also like: