RitualAsh
New member
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- Morgantown, WV
New to Steel Soldiers, and have had a long interest in the deuce...specifically the A2. I've spent the past few days searching through the different threads on various upgrades, and am seeking advice and hoping to consolidate answers to my questions.
I am looking at getting a deuce A2 to make into a project. The idea is to make a balanced tow/haul rig that is decent for fun off-roading (I'm not looking for a hardcore offroader, that's what my ATV is for). Also note that, like many of you, I love the deuce...period. Here's what I'm considering that I need advice for:
1. Brakes - I'd be looking at a full upgrade in the braking system, looking for increase in performance/safety. Definitely would convert to a dual circuit, not sure if there is a more modern system available for these trucks. Should I stay with drum brakes or do a conversion to disc brakes? I know the pros and cons of these in cars, but this is of course a different beast. I want to maintain the tandem dually setup.
2. Running gears - This is not for the purpose of increasing the cruising speed to 70 or such. 55-60 on the highway is perfectly fine (I've read this to be the upper limit of the truck). What I would be looking to do is lower the engine RPMs while cruising to get better economy. I've already decided I would search high and low for 22.5 inch commercial truck wheels to fit, I've read they exist. I've seen three main suggestions for this - axle gearing, transmission gearing, secondary overdrive for the rear axles. Without considering price, and noting I'd like to keep the stock transmission and transfer case, what are your inputs?
These are the two main things I seek input/advice for. The rest of the project idea I have are pretty straight forward: addition of a 12 volt system, heater, electric wipers...creature comforts. Sorry for the long post and thanks in advance!
I am looking at getting a deuce A2 to make into a project. The idea is to make a balanced tow/haul rig that is decent for fun off-roading (I'm not looking for a hardcore offroader, that's what my ATV is for). Also note that, like many of you, I love the deuce...period. Here's what I'm considering that I need advice for:
1. Brakes - I'd be looking at a full upgrade in the braking system, looking for increase in performance/safety. Definitely would convert to a dual circuit, not sure if there is a more modern system available for these trucks. Should I stay with drum brakes or do a conversion to disc brakes? I know the pros and cons of these in cars, but this is of course a different beast. I want to maintain the tandem dually setup.
2. Running gears - This is not for the purpose of increasing the cruising speed to 70 or such. 55-60 on the highway is perfectly fine (I've read this to be the upper limit of the truck). What I would be looking to do is lower the engine RPMs while cruising to get better economy. I've already decided I would search high and low for 22.5 inch commercial truck wheels to fit, I've read they exist. I've seen three main suggestions for this - axle gearing, transmission gearing, secondary overdrive for the rear axles. Without considering price, and noting I'd like to keep the stock transmission and transfer case, what are your inputs?
These are the two main things I seek input/advice for. The rest of the project idea I have are pretty straight forward: addition of a 12 volt system, heater, electric wipers...creature comforts. Sorry for the long post and thanks in advance!
