Just got a M37!

[Sparky]

Its a 53 or 54, don't know for sure which yet. The data plate ic covered in paint. I'm about to do a total restore on this guy so I thought I would get to know everyone here now.
This truck was running about a year ago. I'll post some pics soon. Its had the carb, master cyl., and a few other parts removed, but nothing major. No rust except some minor surface rust. It does look like I'm going to have to replace all the wiring in it, but it has been converted to 12v. I'm sure I'll be here looking for help when I get into that phase. I'm going to take the cab off the frame so it will be easy to work with.
Now to anyone that has restored old vehicles I want your opinion. Is it a better plan to go ahead and strip the truck down to the frame and start there, or would you get the engine running before you start anything? Not that it matters a lot, I just wanted to get some feed back on how other people have done their projects. I'm not sure whch way I want to go with this.
Also, does anyone know of where I can download the TM's for the truck without having to buy them? I've got them in print, but I would like a set in .pdf or something I can view on my P/C.

 

[mangus580]

I would at least make it run before ripping it apart. That way after you have all your sheetmetal nice, you arent climbing and leaning all over it trying to make it run.

Oh, and did I mention?

 

[Armada]

Congrats on the new addition!! And yes, we like pics!

 

[Sparky]

I will post some in the next day or so. I've had some problems with my camera.

 

[CGarbee]

One nice thing about getting it running and working around it while keeping it bassically intact is that it looks like a truck and can be enjoyed while working on it so your enthusiasm can be maintained... If you have the space and the funds and feel that you can keep up the momentum, there is no easier way than to tear it all apart and rebuild it correctly and systematically so that you know it inside out and have that wonderful knowledge that all is as it should be when you take that first drive...

I have some stuff on my website, but if you want a complete set of manuals in PDF form, your best bet is to purchase the cd rom from www.military-media.com for $20 plus a modest shipping fee...
Link to the 3/4 ton manual cd (with 18 publications on it) is:
http://www.military-media.com/Merch...MMI&Product_Code=3/4TONCD&Category_Code=MVMOC

My website is located at:
www.garbee.net/~cabell

Also, give the guys at the M37 specific forum site at www.g741.org a shout...

Congratulations, and good luck with her,

 

[da_sgt]

Welcome aboard Sparky! First you need to fill in your location in your profile or signature (rules). Next, if you plan on doing a total frame up, worry about the engine later. If your planning on taking the whole thing apart, it's much easier to pull the drive line after your sheet metal is off This also depends on if your planning on rebuilding, or replacing your motor. If your not, then make sure it runs before you spiff up the body. Next don't sweat the pictures unless it's something that you need identifyed, I think we all know what a M37 looks like

 

[emmado22]

I'd get it running first.. That way when you find people that can help you, you can atleast drive it to them, the parts store, ect

 

[Longhunter7]

Welcome!

Sparky,

Welcome to Steel Soldiers and thanks for adding your location!

There are some great members out here with a wealth of knowledge, that are willing to help upon request!