lots of deuce questions!

[dirtydawg7586]

I'm looking to buy an m35a2, soon and I had quite a few questions about them. First off, are parts readily available for them? I just want to know if and when my future deuce needs some attention I'll be able to give it. Also, are there ways to increase fuel economy and top speed? I may be moving cross country and improvements there would be appreciated. Is there any specific things to look for when it comes time to buy? I've loved the m35a2 ever since I knew what they were, I just don't know alot of tech about them. I'm an automotive mechanic, so I know my way around wrenches. The deuce is a whole new ballgame, I assume. Any help would be great, thanks!

 

[harleyrkc]

I'm still waiting for my first EUC to go through so I can pick up my first. But I've been studying everything I can while I wait, and from what I've seen I don't think very many parts will be a problem. I think finding the cash to do everything I want is going to be a bigger problem.

 

[DieselBob]

Welcome to the best site on the web. Take time and read the tm's available in the "resources" section that pertain to the deuce. They are very basic in their design and if you know which end of a wrench to hold you can fix just about anything on them. Parts are available and most of the time at a reasonable cost. Also one thing to consider is the local zoning code where you are located. These are three axle trucks and some codes define that as a commercial vehicle no matter that you are not using it in a commercial venture. Just FYI.

 

[RAYZER]

welcome from florida! you can defer fuel cost by running some alternative fuels, buy a parts truck and have spare parts when you need them.

 

[two.fiveM35]

Read all the threads on this and they will answer every question you have and even the ones you have not thought of yet.

 

[Mark2X2]

I'm looking to buy an m35a2, soon and I had quite a few questions about them. First off, are parts readily available for them? I just want to know if and when my future deuce needs some attention I'll be able to give it. Also, are there ways to increase fuel economy and top speed? I may be moving cross country and improvements there would be appreciated. Is there any specific things to look for when it comes time to buy? I've loved the m35a2 ever since I knew what they were, I just don't know alot of tech about them. I'm an automotive mechanic, so I know my way around wrenches. The deuce is a whole new ballgame, I assume. Any help would be great, thanks!

DirtyDawg,
A couple things on fuel economy:
1. Don't load higher than the top of the cab. (wind drag)
2. Single the truck out with 11.00-20's (less drag, will up the speed 4 mph, so you can back out of the foot feed some.)
3. Locking hubs. (less drag in drive line)
4. Use synthetic bearing grease & oil in drive line.
5. Use a new clean air filter and fuel filters.
6. Make sure brakes are adjusted properly.
Doing all that might help your mpg's some, but won't hurt anything thing. You are going to get what you get.

 

[dirtydawg7586]

Thanks everyone for the advice, you've all got me headed in the right direction. Thanks!

 

[USAFSS-ColdWarrior]

The West Texas Detachment of the SS welcomes you aboard Find a bunk, stow your gear, and prepare to get underway You've already been guided toward the VAST resources available here. Search the Threads for any of the keywords from your list of questions and then read, Read, READ

I did just that when I first "got the fever" and was well prepared for what I was getting into when we acquired "The ARK" (a 1968 Deuce) a few months ago. Check out the link in my signature below for "the rest of the story".....

Again.....
W E L C O M E

 

[Heavysteven]

First, good luck with your purchase.

Parts are easy to get. Some cheap some not.

Top speed is limited by the drive line. Folks on this board have been able to make there trucks go fast by bobbing and changing tires. I just think the brake system is not designed to go over 55mph.

Fuel economy....um it's 14k lbs 6x6 truck. Mine loves diesel thinking 7-8 mpg country roads with hills.