new m37 owner

[hawkeye0323]

http://g741.org/photogallery/main.php?g2_itemId=14733

Here's a few pictures of my new project. Needs a ton of work. Engine is locked up, rolls ok, transmission shifts ok, didn't try the other levers.

Any advice on what I should do or what direction I should go with getting it running? I'm ok with doing an engine swap. Don't know if its a OEM tow truck or one that was made.

Thanks in advance for any info.

[52 M-42]

It looks like a nice truck to start with for a restoration. I think you may have a 218 cu in engine instead of a 230, though.

Putting in a correct, military dodge 230 cu in engine would appear to be the way to go, in my mind.

Good Luck with your project, whatever you decide to do.

And welcome to the site!

[hawkeye0323]

I haven't even gotten that far into this yet. Just got it home yesterday.

How hard is it to find a good engine?

[52 M-42]

Finding an engine is not that hard; finding one close to you may not be easy. Just be absolutely sure it is a T245; and get one as complete as you can.

These trucks are a "journey", a hobby, a pastime. They are a lot of fun, they are unique. I think working on them is just as much fun as driving them.

Also, sometimes the best way to accomplish the restoration of these trucks, is just to disassemble it down to the frame and rebuild it from the frame up. In the end it will be less work and a great deal less frustrating.

Just my opinion and suggestion. It is only worth what you paid for it.

[hawkeye0323]

I'm located in the Pittsburgh area. Font want to do a full restoration of the truck. Just wanna make it run and. Keep the look it has. Don't want the show car look.

[w30bob]

Hawkeye,

Welcome aboard. You don't have to worry......even fully restored they never have that "show car look". That's part of the attraction, I guess.
Enjoy it and do whatever the heck you want to it. We'll support you all the way.

regards,
bob

[Cal_Gary]

Welcome aboard-glad to have you with us!
Gary

[hawkeye0323]

The engine is locked up and nothing I have done has helped. I think in going to do a v8 swap. My uncle has a junk yard and has a few things I can have. 70 Ford highboy with a 351, 78 blazer with a 350 and a late 70s Chevy truck with a 305. Maybe this weekend I will go see what's exactly in them. If I do an engine swap I want to do the whole drive line.

Does anyone have any tips on wat to look for and what to avoid.

Thanks

[w30bob]

Grab the 351 (hope it's a Cleveland or at least a 4 BBL Windsor), clean it up and sell it. Take the money and buy a T245 straight six as complete as you can find. Take your buddies out for beers with the money left over, but only if they agree to help you put the motor in your truck. Best to do that sober (I suppose). You'll be way ahead in the long run.



regards,
bob

[oros35]

What part of Pittsburgh? PA? I'm out near the airport, Clinton/Hookstown area.

[hawkeye0323]

V30bob thanks for the idea. I'll look into that option.

I'm from south of Butler.