I don't claim to be the first, but I've done it at least
twice.
And Red... thanks for all the pics. I've been reading through what you've done to the wrecker. Especially the tires.
Thanks. The 395's work great on the wrecker and are only about 2" smaller diameter than the 14"s on yours. Cruises down the highway at 55mph, 2000rpm with the .78 overdrive and handles the weight of the truck well both on and offroad.
Weather is starting to hint at warming up so almost time to get back to working on projects again. I had been planning to focus mostly on the little toyota pickup this year but with how parts/equipment deals have been made for the wrecker during the winter it gets priority again. The list of parts are:
Air brakes
Locker
Dog bones
Heater
Box from M109
Miller Big 40 Diesel welder
Maybe a MEP 002a
12 and 24v alternators
Not all that stuff is going on the wrecker. After using the wrecker for the last year as my mobile tool box (among other things) I've realized that unless I add significantly more storage than has already been added, there's just not enough room for all my tools to be accessible and the wrecker equipment as well. So, the m103a2 trailer is going to become the mobile welder/shop/toolbox.
The box from the M109 needs work as expected and am planning to build it for expedition use later, as in maybe start the rebuild of it next year.
First on the list is the air brake conversion. Have an offroad trip planned for the end of march that I would like the wrecker to make. After the brakes are taken care of will install the replacement cable for the rear winch, then unbolt the rear suspension and roll both rear axles out. Install the locker in the middle axle, replace the worn out dog bones, and roll the setup back under the truck. Debating on moving the axles further towards the rear of the chassis which would help out with lift towing and affect a future idea with the wrecker. Should have that stuff done by the end of May, April if I focus on it.
Heater install and the dual alternators will wait until either the fall or until the stock alternator decides to quit, whichever happens first.
Once the suspension and axle work is done on the wrecker then it's time to focus on the m103a2. Service it first then install the welder, maybe a generator, vice, couple other things and figure out a tool box for it. Shouldn't take long to get this assembled.
Whats left of the m51a2 dump truck chassis is becoming a trailer after that. Cut it down to size for either a 12 or 14ft bed and set it up where different platforms can be swapped as wanted/needed. Similar to Soni's build on his FEMMT. Cargo bed, 5th wheel plate, m109 box are the current platforms. After the trailer chassis is setup I'll be on the lookout for a cargo bed.
opcorn:
caught up with a trucker buddy of mine the other day and looked over his inventory of dead Freightliners, We came to the conclusion that once the snow breaks I can go shopping for air brake parts,--- pedal, vavles and switches, an air seat or two and some 24.5 steel wheels.....
