Halftrack project

[M215]

Halftrack project UPDATE

Hello SS,
This week marks a turning point in the 2.5 year old halftrack project, actually starting to put it back together!

The newly sand blasted and primed frame re-entered the barn to be positioned on blocking over the rebuilt front axle, jack-shaft and bogie support bracket.

At this point things should come together quickly, all the big stuff is finished, motor, trans / transfer rebuilt, rear suspension parts, new bogies and new tracks ready to go. The goal is to have a rolling running chassis by summer.

WooHoo!
Karl

 

[Recovry4x4]

If it comes out half as nice as the 215, it should be world class! Looks good Karl.

 

[NDT]

Looking really good! Can I ask why you cut all those rivets to remove the bogie and rear axle?

 

[APM215]

Looks good but now we need to see more so get to work!!!
But don't rush anything I wan't it to look good. LOL

 

[M215]

Looking really good! Can I ask why you cut all those rivets to remove the bogie and rear axle?

The bogie support bracket and rear drive (jack-shaft) are originally bolted to the frame. I did have to replace 3 of the 5 frame cross members that were riveted in. They were reinstalled with bolts.

I ended up acquiring a replacement frame and bogie support bracket, the drive train parts are from the original halftrack.

On the original frame, the rear idle return sprocket axle / spindles were very worn as well as the hubs. Replacement axle / spindles are one of halftrack parts that are very hard to find or even replace. While trying to find replacements an entire frame became available with excellent spindles. The new frame is from a very early halftrack, originally assembled without springs on the rear idlers. At some point it was converted to the single spring type, I have converted it to the late style double spring type. The serial number is unreadable.

The bogie support bracket has 16 wear points, the originals were worn out. The replacement (very heavy) had all excellent wear points.

 

[CARNAC]

Super. I wish I had the skills, abilities, and equipment to do this kind of work. Can't wait to see it come summer.

 

[USAFSS-ColdWarrior]

We watch in awe Would someone pass the popcorn for those of us sitting on the sidelines admiring and artist at work?

Looking forward to seeing your progress... and the end result.

Thanks for posting up.

 

[cessnatwin]

post more pics!

 

[bourbon69]

That is quite a project you've got going on. Can't wait to see the finished project

 

[FMJ]

Would someone pass the popcorn

You got it. . .

Can't wait to see it come together!

 

[halftrack]

Good job! which model is it??

 

[M215]

Good job! which model is it??

Hello Jason,
When completed it will be a M2A1

Thanks for asking

 

[M215]

Updated progress

Slowly progress is being made on the M2 project. Frame and suspension parts have been painted. Attached 4 deuce tires to the hubs to roll it outside for painting. Assemble has begun on the suspension parts, used an ATV lift to raise the crab w / volute springs.

 

[M215]

More progress

Bogies are finished and installed, more suspension parts painted and put together.
Today I managed to mount one track, took two hours by myself using an engine hoist.

Next is to finish the winch bumper, this needs to be installed to mount the forward motor mounts. re-install the motor, tranny / transfer. Than start on the brakes, fire wall and wiring. After that starts the real fun ARMOR!
Karl

 

[snakehunter1964]

That, my friend, is a work of art! Thanks for all the great pics. Keep em coming!

 

[68t]

Looking great. you sure are doing a lot of hard work. but its worth it all. I might tear down my m3 and blast and paint. but i,m still working on the ww2 5 ton tractor to haul my m3. thanks for pictures

 

[txdodge43man]

Great job keep the pictures coming

 

[peecook]

Karl, awesome work, museum quality as usual.

 

[dfanders]

Looks great ! What did you do about armour?

Cheers,

 

[M215]

tires

Karl, awesome work, museum quality as usual.

Hey Jason,
How do those 900x20 tires look under the frame, they came off your M200 trailer. That trailer has been very handy to have around.

Karl