Well first you need to be sure you have the tools and the ability to use them. No offense but I know plenty of engineers that can work wonders on paper but couldn't a bird house with out someone holding their hand.
Yes there are no kits for the M24 or any parts available for it either. It's a great little tank but there is nothing out there for it.
not even sure you would be able to find tracks for it. Tracks and suspension are the hardest parts to acquire in larger scales.Also there are more clubs around with the 1:16 th scale than there is for the big boys. They are mainly in Europe. 1:16th is the most common scale in the US. Not that the big scales aren't cool, they are. Very cool but most of us guys around here just cant afford them. So good luck with your project and remember to nail down some tracks and sprockets first or there is no point in going any further. The hull and turret is easy compared to the other parts.