Formal Introduction and a M35

[Navo]

Let me take a minute to formally say hello. My name is Andrew and I live in Chesapeake, VA. I have been quietly reading the threads and posts here for about a month. So in other words, I guess you could call it stalking...

I am amazed at the stories, advice, warmness, and willingness that you all have shown to fellow members. I have read NUMEROUS post and threads, and I now have a daily addiction to coming to the forums as much as I can throughout the day! I like getting wrapped up in the posts where someone is recovering a truck or his planing for a long cross country back with their new truck. Then you all tell about it in such great detail on your journey to back home!

I have a friend and a co-worker that used to own a M35A2 (of course this was before we met). He would tell me all the stories and whatnot about his truck etc. I didn't really think much about it at the time. Then one day we were bored so we started "you tubing". Ever since I have been hooked!! I literally think I have watched every video on you tube concerning the M35 and M923.

So, I had my mind set on a M923, but after reading posts and hearing other peoples comments about how I would have to get a CDL etc. I decided on a Deuce. Plus the Deuce is about half the price of a 5-Ton. Also, this would be my first MV, and I have read from a lot of you that a deuce would be better off "learning on".

Now with that said, let me get this out there as well. I can comfortably change my own oil, change tires, check fluids etc. on my own car. HOWEVER.... when you throw a 14,000lb truck and a diesel into the mix. I might as well be working on the Shuttle....I'm no way capable of doing what some of you have with your trucks.

So for the past week, I have done pretty much nothing except work, and then come home and look for trucks for sale and take notes. Then of course the next day at work Im constantly thinking of the trucks I looked at previously the night before. Its pretty much a vicious cycle

So I *think* I have come up with what I would like to purchase. Now keep in mind about what I spoke about earlier (just encase you fell asleep on my rambling posts, I have zero mechanical skills.... ok maybe a pinch of skills at best). I would like the truck to be "turn key". I need one that has been looked at and serviced. Nothing scares me more than buying the truck and 100 miles later the transmission blows up, or the one of engine seals breaks or any other lists of major malfunctions that could happen.

Now, I know that these trucks are used and it could happen even after a servicing. I just feel better knowing that it was looked at by someone that knows what they are doing. While I'm on the want/need topic. I also would like new paint. I think a freshly painted truck looks... well in freaking awesome!

I know I will have to pay to be able to get those above items, but lets face it... the economy is terrible at best... What do you think I would be looking at for something like the above?

I forgot to mention that I'm looking at the M35A2 OR the M35A3. I'm fully aware of the crappy CTIS (throw that out the window) and the top speeds of a blistering 52MPH with the A3. However, I do like an automatic. To be quite honest... Its will more than likely be an A3. *waits while people leave there chairs and leave the thread* I know some of you are kinda harsh on the poor A3. But, I like it. It does kinda grow on ya!

You might be asking "what will you be doing with the truck?" Well, it will mainly be a joy rider. Those weekend drives, quick trip to Walmart, Home Depot, dinner, etc.. No commercial work activities. Most likely driving it once or twice a week. My future truck will never see off road, dirt, rain, or mud. Well maybe, a slight dust if I have to drive on the grass.. BUT NO MUD!

So to sum this posting up, Do you all have any recommendations for me? any insight? How would I get a quote from from Insurance agent? Do I tell them I just bought a Military Vehicle? LOL Are there any places that sell these trucks after they have been gone through? Does anyone locally live here near VA Beach that I could come by and see your Truck?

Thanks again for your time. I hope to be an active member and will keep you all updated on my purchase. (have to find the right one first). Until then I will be steadily reading into more threads and posts.

Andrew

 

[swbradley1]

Welcome aboard.

If you get an A3 you won't have any problems working on it. If the engine or transmission have serious problems with your mechanical experience you'll have to pay someone to do all the work.

But, if you get an A2 with some guidance from this site and the occasional hand you can do the work yourself. That's the joy of owning one.

The difference is the depth of your pockets.

And if you think they won't break down at 100 miles after someone has looked at it think again.
http://www.steelsoldiers.com/deuce/90711-rod-ventilated-block-deuce.html

 

[Navo]

Welcome aboard.

If you get an A3 you won't have any problems working on it. If the engine or transmission have serious problems with your mechanical experience you'll have to pay someone to do all the work.

But, if you get an A2 with some guidance from this site and the occasional hand you can do the work yourself.

The difference is the depth of your pockets.

My thought process is, Im going to be babying it, not treating her rough. So hopefully I will never have that problem.... and If I do, it will be a ways a way down the road. Will have to save up money again I make a purchase.

 

[palskidoo]

Let me be the first to say welcome Navo!

As a fellow new comer to the MV addiction I can sympathize with the youtube searches and trucks on the mind 24/7. Personally, I'm looking for the A2 for the amazing sounds of the whistler turbo and the manual transmission to bang through gears. I'm still just in the learning stage of this hobby so I can't offer advice nearly as well as others on this site so I'm just saying "hello" and glad to see another new MV guy like me.

I hope you find your A3 and drive it as often as you hope, I wish there were more MV's in my area they are quite the site to see.

-Palskidoo

 

[Navo]

Let me be the first to say welcome Navo!

As a fellow new comer to the MV addiction I can sympathize with the youtube searches and trucks on the mind 24/7. Personally, I'm looking for the A2 for the amazing sounds of the whistler turbo and the manual transmission to bang through gears. I'm still just in the learning stage of this hobby so I can't offer advice nearly as well as others on this site so I'm just saying "hello" and glad to see another new MV guy like me.

I hope you find your A3 and drive it as often as you hope, I wish there were more MV's in my area they are quite the site to see.

-Palskidoo

Hey man! Nice to meet you as well! I do love that whistler!

 

[ryan77]

There's nothing better than driving at night and listening to the sound of that whistler turbo!! Plus running waste oil the cloud of black smoke you leave!!!

 

[Navo]

There's nothing better than driving at night and listening to the sound of that whistler turbo!! Plus running waste oil the cloud of black smoke you leave!!!

Haha!

I'm not sure if I can post youtube links if its not my own on these forums, but you can search for "1972 Am General M35A2 smoke video"

LOVE IT!

 

[palskidoo]

There's nothing better than driving at night and listening to the sound of that whistler turbo!! Plus running waste oil the cloud of black smoke you leave!!!

I can't wait to leave my carbon footprint, rolling coal down the road!!

 

[ryan77]

Here's a video highway driving in Kentucky!!!

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtPj4ixMl0Q[/media]

 

[Navo]

Here's a video highway driving in Kentucky!!!

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtPj4ixMl0Q[/media]

Nice! I guess you can post youtube video's. Let me see if I can do this correctly....

[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YwCqiuW__Ak&feature=relmfu[/media]

 

[197thhhc]

Welcome to the site. You will love whatever you get.

 

[Rambling Wreck]

Welcome Navo!

You should be able to get a diesel mechanic to thoroughly look over a M35 for around $300. In the past I have had two A2's looked at by diesel mechanics and it cost me $300 at one place only $250 at the other.

Now I own an A3 and have been very happy with it. I like the piece of mind that it was built (rebuilt) in the 90's.

Considering that you don't plan on hauling anything and the other things you listed that you would and wouldn't do with it, you may want to consider a bobbed A3. If you find one with big tires you may be able to run 55-60mph (in case you get it on the freeway) and it will be easier to park and cruise around town in. Just my

Sorry that the green bug bit you for there is no cure. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

[cattlerepairman]

Since you have done a lot of reading, you will be familiar with the differences between an A2 and an A3.
Purchase price for the A3 is usually significantly higher. On the other hand, you get a truck that was (re)built at a time when many A2's were surplussed. That means you can get a younger truck that has seen less use or abuse and should therefore last longer with basic maintenance.
Some parts interchange between the trucks, but the majority does not. A3 specific parts are generally pricey, bordering on ridiculous (try replacing wheel bearings/seals).

Both the CAT engine and Allison automatic are less shade-tree mechanic friendly than the corresponding A2 units. Then, again, if you get a truck that is mechanically sound, you would hope to not have to touch them for a while.

A3s with defective CTIS may have been sitting on deflated tires for a long time before being auctioned. This causes problems (blowouts) later on. Read up on it and factor need for tires into your overall potential cost or at least check the tire condition very carefully (may need to be pulled off the rims).

 

[Navo]

Welcome Navo!

You should be able to get a diesel mechanic to thoroughly look over a M35 for around $300. In the past I have had two A2's looked at by diesel mechanics and it cost me $300 at one place only $250 at the other.

Now I own an A3 and have been very happy with it. I like the piece of mind that it was built (rebuilt) in the 90's.

Considering that you don't plan on hauling anything and the other things you listed that you would and wouldn't do with it, you may want to consider a bobbed A3. If you find one with big tires you may be able to run 55-60mph (in case you get it on the freeway) and it will be easier to park and cruise around town in. Just my

Sorry that the green bug bit you for there is no cure. Good luck and keep us posted!

I was considering the bobbed version. But.... I think I have decided on the norm. I want this truck to scream military!

I live in the country and on back roads, so 45-50 will be just fine! At least for now....

 

[Navo]

Since you have done a lot of reading, you will be familiar with the differences between an A2 and an A3.
Purchase price for the A3 is usually significantly higher. On the other hand, you get a truck that was (re)built at a time when many A2's were surplussed. That means you can get a younger truck that has seen less use or abuse and should therefore last longer with basic maintenance.
Some parts interchange between the trucks, but the majority does not. A3 specific parts are generally pricey, bordering on ridiculous (try replacing wheel bearings/seals).

Both the CAT engine and Allison automatic are less shade-tree mechanic friendly than the corresponding A2 units. Then, again, if you get a truck that is mechanically sound, you would hope to not have to touch them for a while.

A3s with defective CTIS may have been sitting on deflated tires for a long time before being auctioned. This causes problems (blowouts) later on. Read up on it and factor need for tires into your overall potential cost or at least check the tire condition very carefully (may need to be pulled off the rims).

Isn't that funny, The A3 was made from I think two A2's and yet, most parts aren't interchangeable

So where did all the parts of the two A2's go into the A3?

Yea I heard those wheel bearings are like 800 bucks for one But! I did speak to a company that was able to replace the A3 bearings with A2 bearings and flipping the hubs, of course after removing all the CTIS crap.

thoughts?

 

[swbradley1]

My thought process is, Im going to be babying it, not treating her rough. So hopefully I will never have that problem.... and If I do, it will be a ways a way down the road. Will have to save up money again I make a purchase.

Really? I was running 45-47 mph the whole trip. What I'm saying is that no matter how much you baby the truck and it won't matter which version you get it could have a major failure going across the country or going around the block.

I know an A3 that was sitting a CAT dealer for 2 months. Wonder how much that cost and I know it was being driven easy.

 

[Navo]

Really? I was running 45-47 mph the whole trip. What I'm saying is that no matter how much you baby the truck and it won't matter which version you get it could have a major failure going across the country or going around the block.

I know an A3 that was sitting a CAT dealer for 2 months. Wonder how much that cost and I know it was being driven easy.

Yea I know, It could happen at any time. Luck of the draw I guess you could say...

 

[doghead]

Regardless of how much work the truck has had before you purchase it, it will require constant maintenance and checks to keep it in safe operation. Mostly basic mechanical work, but you will need to have some tools, knowledge and judgment what is needed to keep it safe and reliable. We can help you with most of that, here.

 

[Navo]

Regardless of how much work the truck has had before you purchase it, it will require constant maintenance and checks to keep it in safe operation. Mostly basic mechanical work, but you will need to have some tools, knowledge and judgment what is needed to keep it safe and reliable. We can help you with most of that, here.

My dad is pretty good with maintenance. So if something did happen, I think between you all, my dad, and myself we could probably figure it out. And if all that fails....well I will be cutting off a arm and a leg and giving it to CAT.... UGH...

 

[gungearz]

Welcome to steel soldiers... Whatever you get, just make sure you learn how to fix it yourself cause paying someone $105 an hour will eat a hole in your pocket.