Mods, I'm new here so please move this if there is a more suitable location for this thread.
I've come to the conclusion that I'd like to use an FMTV to build an expedition camper. I've read through quite a few of the threads here and on expedition portal that have helped me solidify my choice in this chassis but now I need a little more help from you experts.
I would like to build on a 6x6 chassis as I need a decently sized box to fit my family of 4. I am targeting a total length of 32-35' overall as I think it will be reasonably manageable to drive and with restrictions on RV access in national parks, this seems to be a sweet spot for both size and internal living area in the habitat. I expect this will allow for a ~24' to 30' box depending on the final length and if I relocate the spare tire and air intake.
So now I'm trying to determine which model truck I need. Due to the desired length, I am looking for a long wheel base FMTV. I used the info here:
After summarising this, It looks like there are 4 different wheelbases for the 6x6. 161" , 177", 209" and 217". The 217" is available on the M1086 and M1087. I have not found a single listing of the M1086 on GP. The M1087 expando vans usually go for a lot more than the cargo trucks and I think I'd be money ahead and get to fully customize the box if I build it myself, and they are still quite rare with a few popping up each year.
So that takes me to the 209" which is the M1089 wrecker. Seems like this is the best choice as they are pretty available on GP and the next step down would be the M1085 cargo which drops 32" off the wheelbase which would necessitate me adding that length behind the wheels to maintain the box size on a shorter chassis. My concern is all the extra stuff on the wrecker vs. a cargo which will have to be removed and sold or scrapped to get to a bare chassis. Might be making a bigger deal about this than it actually is, so I would welcome feedback.
I did a search for a TM for that chassis, but didn't find one. Can someone help point me to one? I think that may go a long way in educating me on what would need to be done.
TLDR:
1. Anyone have a manual for the M1089 Wrecker?
2. Anyone want all the stuff off the back of a wrecker if I buy one?
I've come to the conclusion that I'd like to use an FMTV to build an expedition camper. I've read through quite a few of the threads here and on expedition portal that have helped me solidify my choice in this chassis but now I need a little more help from you experts.
I would like to build on a 6x6 chassis as I need a decently sized box to fit my family of 4. I am targeting a total length of 32-35' overall as I think it will be reasonably manageable to drive and with restrictions on RV access in national parks, this seems to be a sweet spot for both size and internal living area in the habitat. I expect this will allow for a ~24' to 30' box depending on the final length and if I relocate the spare tire and air intake.
So now I'm trying to determine which model truck I need. Due to the desired length, I am looking for a long wheel base FMTV. I used the info here:
After summarising this, It looks like there are 4 different wheelbases for the 6x6. 161" , 177", 209" and 217". The 217" is available on the M1086 and M1087. I have not found a single listing of the M1086 on GP. The M1087 expando vans usually go for a lot more than the cargo trucks and I think I'd be money ahead and get to fully customize the box if I build it myself, and they are still quite rare with a few popping up each year.
So that takes me to the 209" which is the M1089 wrecker. Seems like this is the best choice as they are pretty available on GP and the next step down would be the M1085 cargo which drops 32" off the wheelbase which would necessitate me adding that length behind the wheels to maintain the box size on a shorter chassis. My concern is all the extra stuff on the wrecker vs. a cargo which will have to be removed and sold or scrapped to get to a bare chassis. Might be making a bigger deal about this than it actually is, so I would welcome feedback.
I did a search for a TM for that chassis, but didn't find one. Can someone help point me to one? I think that may go a long way in educating me on what would need to be done.
TLDR:
1. Anyone have a manual for the M1089 Wrecker?
2. Anyone want all the stuff off the back of a wrecker if I buy one?