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While the idea of a framework would get the job done, another consideration is that I, speaking for my own self, am trying to accurately represent the technology used to build the gunbox. As such, I'm trying to replicate the look as closely as possible inside and out while saving as much weight...

The sides on the short box trucks seem to calculate out at just under 48" (varies from 42" to 46" depending on the truck) so for planning purposes, I'm using 48" and will cut down as needed. I looked into Trex yesterday, I used it for my deck years ago and now they have sheets up to 4'x10'. The...

Problem with the frame idea is the thickness. It should be 1/4" or 3/8" anything thicker and the M37 would break. (Sounds like they broke often enough with 3/8"). Composite might be the answer, rigid and lightweight but the cost would be a killer!!

The biggest thing that bothers me about the thin metal covered plywood is how difficult it might be to keep the metal smooth and even. It would have to be glued carefully and the glue would need to be spread thin and even. The glue would also need to bond metal to wood and be somewhat heat and...

Having been associated with the WW2 Warbird community for many years, my thoughts are a carry over from there. It is not kosher to do a plane that someone else has done. I feel that if someone has gone thru the research, time and expense to do a particular replica that it is a sign of respect...

I haven't ever seen a photo of a Vietnam M37 GT with a hard top. There have been threads here discussing who is making what. When it comes to short box trucks, there were only a few to begin with and the easy ones have already been done/reserved.

I've looked into Lexan/polycarbonate as well. Prices are actually a little better than the fiberglas, but I'm not sure how it would hold paint. Wouldn't want to do a "transparent" gun box, some things are better left out of sight! :popcorn:

Maddawg might have something he calcualted, but it would be specific to his project. Looking at the available photos, it appears to me that the M37 box armor varied....a lot. First you have the issue of long box vs short box. Then the height seems different on almost every one. Add to that...

I've looked into it a little bit, it's pricey in the big sheets and I have some questions regarding the finish on the surfaces. Samples I've seen aren't as smooth as a steel surface and with prices approaching aluminum, it doesn't seem to make a lot of sense. It might be easier to work with...

Aluminum is probably the best choice for reasons you stated but it is very expensive.

Thanks. I'm looking into alternatives to steel to try to save some weight and wear and tear on my body.

Bill, I assume you mean 0.25" in your first sentence? 0.025 is getting into the tin foil area.

Just wondering what thickness of steel plate was used for armor boxes on M37s in Vietnam? Thanks.