Found an M37 ambulance....??

[ccf460]

A friend found (possibly for me), an M37 ambulance. Can this be converted into the pickup version? I am thinking about a restoration/modification for my 9 year old sons first car. I am in the process of bobbing my deuce with an air ride suspension, have a M1009 cucv as a part time vehicle, and a M105 trailer in the yard. I am just drawn to the awesome looks of these M37's in "truck" form. I can envision a little more modern drivetrain,brakes and steering upgrades, and my son driving the most unique vehicle in the parking lot (kinda like me!).Thanks for any light you can shed on this truck.

 

[hndrsonj]

It's a M43. and don't try to convert it.

 

[mactiredearg]

There are plenty of M37s out there to be found and setup like you are suggesting. The M43s with intact bodies are getting harder to find and it'd be nice to save a few.
Besides, if you cut off the body you are still going to have to Fab the back of the cab and a bed. Easier to grab an M37 in the first place.

That or do what you have planned to the M43 as it is and he'd definitely have a unique vehicle...

 

[hndrsonj]

Also, the ambulance's wheel base is 14" longer than the M37.

 

[Storm 51]

The M-37 / M-42 trucks are waaaay easier to find than an M-43 Ambulance. It would VERY UNFORTUNATE to cut up an M-43 to make a bastardized M-37.

Bad juju / karma.

Please don't do it.

Storm 51

 

[SCSG-G4]

I know someone who wants an ambulance version, he might trade for it with some M37's. PM if interested.

 

[vtdeucedriver]

If the roof line is completely shot ( you wil see what I mean). Feel free to hack away but remember that your cab rear will be open to whatever you do to the back. Better off to make it into a 4x4 van.

 

[harleyhouse]

If it is good shape don't change it.
Keep it original on the outside and custom on the inside.
He will be popular with the ladies.