Had a few extra minutes away from the work. Weather was great so curiosity and impatience got the best of me. Wandered out to the back barn to see if the green beasties would fire after their "long winter's nap". The M54 fired with only a little cranking (multifuel). Honestly didn't surprise me as she has always been a great runner. But it is always nice to NOT have any big problems from the git-go. While she was warming up, it was over to the 5-ton HMTT that we got around Christmas. Hasn't been run since we drove it off the lowboy and into the barn in December. Haven't done anything to it yet (waiting for warmer weather - I know....WIMP!) such as filters or injectors. Didn't even put a trickle charger on it (I really never do - just lazy). Flipped the Master Battery Disconnect, turned the key (yes folks this military prototype has a keyed ignition) and not even a full crank and she was off and running!!!!
WHOOO WHOOO!!! Who would have thunk it. Made my day. Talked to my metal fabricator/welding buddy the other day and he is ready whenever I am ready to build a new front bumper (amongst other things bound to come up). Anyways, just wanted to share a little good news. Take care.
All the kids that come over to play with the trucks (kids of all ages!) think the tires are pretty cool - me too!
My Deuce still has the 9:00 - 20 NDCC's (I think it kind-of needs them - has the 17' long van body - I think she might be heavier empty than the 5-ton!) don't know if it would take well to the big singles with the low wheel wells on the van body. Sure would be nice to have some nice tread though. Some years ago took it to a trail ride w/ some other MV buddies. No intention of taking it on the trails (no room for that big of a box!) just to use as a base of ops. The camp location was all sand and boy did she show her weight there!!! Got a little dicey in the sugar sand!!
Feeling like a bear just out of hibernation? Me too.
Here is the original thread on this beauty (it's powered by a Detroit Diesel, btw): The 5-Ton HMTT is home!
__________________
Bjorn
MEP-018A (needs new generator head)
Avatar: XM757 in OK prepared for 1,000 mile trip home. Part of 6,000 mile journey in 2006.
1968 M49A2C modified with 1960 M756A2 truck bed and 1975 HIAB 765A knuckleboom, exhaust brake, VIC-1 and more.
1969 Ford XM757 8x8, 5-ton Pershing 1A truck tractor...the "improved MV".
"Some things can't be made better, just differently......a lot of things actually"
WHO WHO!! - We Have Ignition!!
Who would have thunk it. Made my day. Talked to my metal fabricator/welding buddy the other day and he is ready whenever I am ready to build a new front bumper (amongst other things bound to come up). Anyways, just wanted to share a little good news. Take care.
