Couple updates:
The seller of the truck took the M109a4 in for a complete Preventative Maintenance (PM) service for me. The shop lubed everything, checked all the joints in the drivetrain, oil change, oil filter, fuel filter, and put dextrose in the transmission. They discovered one hose from the radiator that was soft, so they replaced it. Otherwise, the truck appears to be in great shape. I also shipped 2 engine block heaters to the service shop, however- they said only one would fit in the freeze plug bung because wires or hoses were in the way of the other side. Since I couldn't see what they were talking about, I just had them install the one (1000W) heater. They also flushed and replaced the coolant at this time too. I really wanted 2 engine block heaters installed (remember- could be -40°F), but I'll see how one does for now. I can always install the other one later, once i get it home.
I've been doing a lot of reading here on various Steel Soldiers threads, and after reading about some issues with box van heaters, and diesel/fuel fired heaters, I decided to purchase a propane heater, for 1/3 the price:
Mr. Heater It's lighter, smaller, and although I'll need to lug a propane canister around, it will also come in handy for running a range or other type of cooking device (i think i own 1/2 of coleman's catalog already). We'll see how it does, and I'll share my 'customer review' with you guys.
Now that I have this heater, my road-mate/co-pilot was excited to hear that we could sleep IN the truck on our trek west. So, we're shipping our sleeping bags and a couple cots to the truck this week. We'll hit a truck stop or two on the way to take showers...
The seller of the truck has been working hard trying to get the tires on the truck to 'balance'. Even after 20oz of anti-freeze in the tires, there is still a front tire that has a wobble around 40-42mph. He directed me to the thread on here that talks about the same issue with other member's trucks. I guess the wobble goes away at speeds above 42mph, but he's going to try adding another 20oz of anti-freeze to the tire. I'm suspicious, that the tire(s) may have some internal rot, and/or some flat spots from sitting deflated on a base for months/years. Anyone have suggestions? I'm starting to research tires... and up-sizing to 395s. I've read dozens and dozens of posts about this topic, but still feel uncertain on what my best option is; the threads seem to go in circles. Here, in the cold, dark and remote parts of Montana, old surplus tires aren't one of the things you want to gamble with. New tires that are decent in snow and ice and taller in size (so I can get a few more mph out of cruising speed) would be ideal. The CTIS system is 'cool' but not really a practical function for my intended use. Once i get the truck home, i will probably disconnect/remove it.