FMTV Rear Tire Travel

[Kevin Means]

Hi all. Has anyone ever determined how far the rear tires of an M1083 will travel upward when negotiating terrain? We're designing the habitat for our M1083 and it would be helpful to know how far they can articulate upward from the level position. (Clearance for the box) I've taken some static measurements, and it looks like they can travel roughly 7 to 8 inches before hitting the rubber bump stops, but I'm wondering if that's realistic. Thanks

Kevin

 

[serpico760]

They won't go above the upper frame rail, at least that's my experience maxing the flex out of mine, purposely twisting it on a couple of boulders in the desert. although I will admit there was only about 800 lb of gear in the back

 

[Kevin Means]

Thank you serpico760. That's kind of what I thought I'd hear after measuring everything. I've allowed for 10" of upward travel before the rear tires would rub against anything, and I've watched a lot of 6X6 videos. While it's hard to say for sure, I never saw any of their tires extend beyond the upper set of frame rails. Really appreciate the help.

Kevin

 

[ckouba]

I went with ~12" of clearance from top of the tread to the skin of the box when initially built (i.e., box was empty). I think I soaked up an inch or so of that with loading it up. Wouldn't venture less than your 10" if you're empty.

 

[Kevin Means]

Thanks Chris. I think I can move the metal fender up a bit to get a bit more clearance, but I appreciate the input.

Kevin

 

[aw113sgte]

I'm running the shipping container directly on top of the frame rails (with 3/8 of an inch plastic rub rail). Truck is just over 30,000 lb, have never been able to get the tires to rub on the habitat, and I've tried flexing it out. This is with the five leaf spring pack, so keep that in mind.

 

[Kevin Means]

OK. Thanks - very helpful. Our M1083 has the 3 leaf spring setup, so I realize that our mileage will differ. I was able to make some easy changes to the CAD design to get 11" worth of up-travel. Based on everything I've read so far, I think we'll be fine with that.

Thanks everyone.

Kevin