Description
This 3/4 ton truck had been pretty much abandoned after spending years on a Central Valley California ranch as an unlicensed farm vehicle. It was parked in a tractor shed for over 40 years, during which almost all the removable parts were carted off. I was told that I'm the second civilian owner. Because the truck was missing so many parts, I began a complete body-off-frame rebuild in 2019. The first thing I did was sandblast the body, frame and wheels, prime with 3 coats of red oxide zinc phosphate, and then laid on 3 coats of No. 23070 semi-gloss OD. After that, just about everything that needed repair was repaired, and nearly everything that needed replacement was replaced. Almost everything on this truck is new. Here's pretty much what I did: rebuilt the engine (the original head was cracked), replaced the bearings, seals and gaskets in the transmission and transfer case, replaced wheel bearings and seals, installed a new master cylinder and new wheel cylinders, brake lines and shoes, shocks, u-joints, NDT tires and tubes. The truck also has a new stainless steel fuel tank. The differentials appear to be in like-new shape. There are no oil leaks, just an occasional oil spot. The engine starts right up every time, and runs like it should. The engine and engine compartment was missing all of its accessories and the wiring was completely shot, so I converted the truck to 12 volts with a new wiring harness front to rear, all new alternator, battery, starter, distributor, coil, gauges, turn signals, exterior and interior lighting, and a new electric fuel pump. The radiator, water and oil pumps were also replaced, as was the thermostat, hoses and belts. I also installed a correct M37 carburetor and air cleaner.All the glass in the cab is new, including the windshield frames. The steering wheel is new, and the horn and horn button work as they should. All of the data plates were replaced. The canvas seat upholstery is new and correct. I also installed a new canvas cab top framework. The tailgate was missing, but I was lucky to source one, on which I installed a new set of pioneer tools and tool rack. The photos show that all the M37 manuals are included, as is OD touch-up paint in a couple of aerosol cans.As a result, the truck is once again nearly complete, with a few things that still need to be done, such as obtaining a canvas cab top, troop seats and bed canvas. These and other things that could be done shouldl be easy for anyone who likes to tinker, while still being able to drive the truck.I had planned on using this M37 in parades and as a parts chaser, but health issues are forcing a change in plans. The whole time I've owned it, it has been parked inside my garage. This is not a perfect M37, but there is no reason why it should not be a nice addition to any collection of unusual vehicles. With only 30 miles on it and with routine maintenance, I believe this truck should last a long time.
