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Weldit, thanks for posting the pictures. That is unmistakably a LDS427 engine and an early 1960's M35A2 (low headlights) that was never used by the military in the 1980's and later. Pictures are no substitute for very careful examination in person, but I would say the head gasket blew because...
This article relates to the original driveshaft problem (and numerous other design flaws uncovered). Lots of folks always wondered how S&S managed to score the FMTV contract, as they had never built a highway truck from scratch in the history of the company.
So it sounds like there is some kind of latent age-related defect in the powertrain that can manifest at any time resulting in lockup and the driver being thrown through the windshield at 58 MPH? I won't be buying one of these after all.
EDIT: I no longer think the above statement is true.
With the Hendrickson walking beam rear, you might as well bolt the axles to the frame. Maybe some spring flex at 60,000 lbs. If you want a better ride, remove the entire bogie and replace it with air-ride from a newer truck.
How did the trucks make it going DOWN the steep hill at Jacques place? I have heard stories of many trucks burning up engines and clutches going UP the hill making deliveries there.
See the "D" stamped onto the main data plate? That means that Stewart and Stevenson has performed rework to prevent the driveshaft from flying off. This was an early defect that caused the entire fleet to be limited to 30 MPH for years. All trucks should have been fixed.
I wouldn't be surprised if some manufacturer in some favored congressional district is turning them out. I think over the years DOD has bought 10 M105 trailers for every truck there is to pull one.
Study the GL auction pictures for information on the main data plates of trucks coming up for sale. That will give you an idea to bracket in a build year.
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