1957 M62 Wrecker New Owner, Engine Swap and Mech Q

[11Echo]

Thanks for the welcome and thanks for the input Red, Gimpy, and Ferro.

I read somewhere that my massive engine makes something like 220 hp, which I think is better than any other engine from that era. My thinking would be to investigate the cost and benefit of going with a newer diesel unit with better power and better fuel economy. Not sure if that is realistic or not.

I think my max realistic radius for offering backhoe services would be something like 40 miles or so.

What would a good 6CTA swap cost? Is that the best option? I think it only makes sense for me if I can pull it off for a grand or so, unless I get more serious about the whole idea.

Backhoe is a 1981 Case 580D.

Thanks Again,

John

The 602 is a good engine. Staying close to home it is fast enough,(stay off the big roads). My gasser with the 5 speed direct drive transmission has pulled long grades in 5th gear that my deuces have required a downshift to 4th.

A link to a 5 ton drag race for you enjoyment! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bfWBqLRUxY

 

[gimpyrobb]

That was my wrecker!

 

[JohnSemperFi]

Fluids so far are over $300 lol

Oil change with 2 NAPA 1503 filters and 5 gallons of 15w-40: $100
1 gallon of DOT 5 brake fluid: $110
9 gallons of 85w-140 gear oil: $115

 

[gimpyrobb]

John, thats nothing so far.
Wait till you burst a hose on the boom. The fittings are non-standard so I had them cut off the stock threads and braze on a pipe thread, so now a hose replacement will be about $40 compared to having the adapter made, $100(each hose).

 

[11Echo]

That was my wrecker!

I still recall the morning Jeff fired it up to unload the tire demounter! He was surprised at how heavy it is.

 

[gimpyrobb]

That thing works better than i could have ever imagined.