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We might be getting in the weeds a bit with this one. I haven't been able to find a definitive comprehensive list of differences between the base original M37 and the B1 variant, so I thought I'd "crowdsource" the information.
I have found that Dodge shifted to B1 production in April, 1958. My truck (delivery date October 19, 1958--please see attached data plate photo) is apparently an early B1. Note the hand stamped "B1" after M 37.
Some evidence exists that (logically) Dodge elected (and perhaps in coordination with the Army) to run out existing parts inventory while keeping the production line going. In addition to the hand-stamped B1 addition on my data plate, I say this because one source indicates the B1s used Douglas connectors while mine are still the Packard metal shells.
Also, the tool box doors on my truck are crudely modified with a torch cut to add the staple for locking. Perhaps this was done to comply with military specs until the factory retooled.
Here's what I (think) know:
M37B1:
Relocation of spare to the driver door.
Addition of front and back leaf spring spacers to account for weight of relocated spare [levels the frame].
Addition of staple and hole in tool box doors to enable padlocking.
Synchronized transmission.
Fixed pintle hook.
Here's what I'm unsure of:
Packard vs Douglas electrical connectors
Are there other differences? Thanks for your help.
I have found that Dodge shifted to B1 production in April, 1958. My truck (delivery date October 19, 1958--please see attached data plate photo) is apparently an early B1. Note the hand stamped "B1" after M 37.
Some evidence exists that (logically) Dodge elected (and perhaps in coordination with the Army) to run out existing parts inventory while keeping the production line going. In addition to the hand-stamped B1 addition on my data plate, I say this because one source indicates the B1s used Douglas connectors while mine are still the Packard metal shells.
Also, the tool box doors on my truck are crudely modified with a torch cut to add the staple for locking. Perhaps this was done to comply with military specs until the factory retooled.
Here's what I (think) know:
M37B1:
Relocation of spare to the driver door.
Addition of front and back leaf spring spacers to account for weight of relocated spare [levels the frame].
Addition of staple and hole in tool box doors to enable padlocking.
Synchronized transmission.
Fixed pintle hook.
Here's what I'm unsure of:
Packard vs Douglas electrical connectors
Are there other differences? Thanks for your help.
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