M988 upgrade to M1045A2? Is it worth it?

[JetbikeAnt]

Hello All,

I have the opportunity to purchase an M1045A2 for what I think is a reasonable price these days. Its a 2003 6.5 with 4 speed. For me I always wanted a Slant Back. The problem is I love my 1987 M998 and have done most of the work and all the maintenance myself. It is a badass Truck. I also have a lot of new spare parts for it.

Now the kicker. I most likely will have to sell her at some point to fund the purchase / restoration. Mt question is by going to the M1045A2 will there be that much of a difference when it comes to the drivability of the vehicle and shear enjoyment. I know many of you must have taken this same journey. Also are any of the parts interchangeable? I have three new half-shafts as an example. I look forward to hearing what you think. Thanks in advance!

 

[M1165A1]

If you have a truck you love, and you can't come up with a clear reason to upgrade, then you have your answer.

 

[Action]

the transmission in the slantback will be a BIG improvement.

 

[Coug]

many/most of the spare parts should be interchangeable, but not things like half shafts or other things they upgraded for the A2 series. The A2 series uses 12k shafts, the A0 and A1 use 7 or 10k shafts.

the 6.5 engine should have a little more power, the differentials will be geared a little lower, and having a 4th speed in the transmission make a bit of difference, especially if you tow a trailer with it or any other extra weight.

Filters and fluids should all be the same, except the 6.5 needs oil filters with the anti-drainback valve in them, where the 6.2 didn't call for it (but was still a good idea to use)

The 1045A2 is 16 years newer, and many of the glaring issues with the early trucks (many taken care of my MWOs) are taken care of, as well as other upgrades. Some of the A2 parts end up more expensive (like the half shafts), but overall I think it's a wash.

The ability to go 60+ miles an hour without worrying about killing the engine is also nice.

 

[rcamacho]

If you are planning on highway driving the 4 speed transmission is more humane. Slightly less risk of getting rear ended if you can keep pace with the speed limit.


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[TOBASH]

Love my M1025A1 with 4 speed, if that is any help... BUT you will have leaks galore in the rain and snow.

 

[Milcommoguy]

If you are planning on highway driving the 4 speed transmission is more humane. Slightly less risk of getting rear ended if you can keep pace with the speed limit.

Funny you say that... I always drive looking in the rear view mirror. Learned that 40 years ago with the M38A1, then M37, couple of CUCV's and now pokie HMMWV. Use the windshield going down hill, LOL

Not in hurry in the HumV, CAMO

 

[springer1981]

The question is do you NEED any of the updates? Do you NEED 12K shafts? Have you broken any of the ones you have now?

I have a M998 and I NEED a 4 speed. Although I have no intention of driving it on a highway I do want to be able to drive on primary roads that have 55 mph speed limits without people wanting to kill me. I will be upgrading my 3 speed to a 4 speed hopefully this year.

I might do some off roading but no rock climbing, no hell's pass, no devils canyon or any other extreme 4 wheeling. I don't need 12K shafts etc.

It comes down to what you NEED or what you WANT. Your choice.

 

[JetbikeAnt]

Hello All. I want to thank everyone for their input. It looks like I am making the trip down to see the vehicle tomorrow. After speaking with the owner its the only way I will be able to see what the true condition is. I'll let everyone know if the M1045A2 gets a new home or not. I know everyone likes pics, so here is the Buggy I'm looking at. Thanks again!

 

[TOBASH]

I don’t see an actual turret

 

[Retiredwarhorses]

An m998 doesn’t compare to an A2 truck...much more power the 4 speed is night and day.

 

[JetbikeAnt]

Hello Tobash. Yes, the Military removed the Turret. I was already thinking about reinstalling it if that is possible. If I do it will most likely leak, but I'm kinda used to that now. lol.

 

[JetbikeAnt]

An m998 doesn’t compare to an A2 truck...much more power the 4 speed is night and day.

That is what I'm hoping!

 

[M1165A1]

And there’s your reason to upgrade - the 6.5L turbo and 4 speed. I haven’t experienced a 6.2 but I have driven the 6.5 and find it quite powerful (this was in the Colorado Rockies, at altitude).

 

[Action]

And there’s your reason to upgrade - the 6.5L turbo and 4 speed. I haven’t experienced a 6.2 but I have driven the 6.5 and find it quite powerful (this was in the Colorado Rockies, at altitude).

Doesn't the m1045 have an n/a motor?

 

[Andyrv6av8r]

Doesn't the m1045 have an n/a motor?

Yes

 

[Andyrv6av8r]

I drove a 998 once and nearly bought another one later. I'm glad I waited and got my 1045a2.

 

[TOBASH]

I drove a 998 once and nearly bought another one later. I'm glad I waited and got my 1045a2.

View attachment 829724

My M1025A1 is better... The hood is down so I can see when I drive.

Nice Rig Andy!

 

[BLK HMMWV]

Hello Tobash. Yes, the Military removed the Turret. I was already thinking about reinstalling it if that is possible. If I do it will most likely leak, but I'm kinda used to that now. lol.

Just take note that depending on how much of the turret support structure is missing you may need to factor in upwards of an additional 5K to open up the big hole that has been covered over in your roof. You already have the hatch and sponsons that helps.
Be prepared for both the roof and your wallet to leak in the future.

 

[TOBASH]

Just take note that depending on how much of the turret support structure is missing you may need to factor in upwards of an additional 5K to open up the big hole that has been covered over in your roof. You already have the hatch and sponsons that helps.
Be prepared for both the roof and your wallet to leak in the future.

Be prepared to spend $9k plus. Support cage. Bearings. Rings. Turret assembly. And a bit of time.