Seriously looking at lmtv need input please

[mkcoen]

I think the one I had was a 3116 Cat, sounds like the C7's are a better option. Are the Mods just easier on the C7, better MPG?

If you're worried about fuel mileage then these probably aren't for you. If it's a toy or a ranch work truck or something like that then mileage really isn't an issue. If you plan on driving to the point that you're concerned about 8mpg vs 10mpg then you really need a different vehicle.

 

[scottmandu]

The C7 came in the A1 versions (2003 and up i think) and are very hard to find complete and in good shape. Last complete one that sold in the USA went for $21k if I'm not mistaken. They are alot nicer rigs but come at a price.

 

[grndZr0]

Yea i think we had a few of the newer ones, and a few of the older ones.

Im not so concerned about the mileage, just wonder what to expect. I have read a few of the build threads, iso i have an idea, i just didnt see and real comparisons of the 3116 and the C7.

Also, we would love to do a big overland trip at some point. I have seen some of the built up Unimog U500's and such for 200K and up. I though you could do the same thing with one of these for wayyyyyy cheaper.

Ryan

 

[tburk49760]

How is the gas milage looking after the regear?

Ryan

fuel mileage is up to 8. My goal is 10ish.

 

[tburk49760]

Ok, thanks. What kind of miles are you guys putting on them?

What kind of money in servicing can one expect to dump into a "Running" one off of Gov Planet?

I think the one I had was a 3116 Cat, sounds like the C7's are a better option. Are the Mods just easier on the C7, better

Mine is almost a daily driver. About 100 miles a week... I like my 3116 fine. I want more mpg only to increase the range without adding a fuel tank.

 

[tburk49760]

Oil changes aren't too bad. Routine maintenance is reasonable too. Major repairs, who knows.

 

[tburk49760]

I noticed again today that my volt gauge reads a bit low. Right in the yellow. Retread a bunch of posts and I must be hallucinating. I thought I remembered an adjustment process but can't locate it... Also mention of flashy lights on the regulator? Thoughts?

 

[Suprman]

Check the 24v lead at the alt regulator. They have a habit of going bad.

 

[Lmtv772]

Also check the fusible links on that regulator

 

[Lmtv772]

I noticed again today that my volt gauge reads a bit low. Right in the yellow. Retread a bunch of posts and I must be hallucinating. I thought I remembered an adjustment process but can't locate it... Also mention of flashy lights on the regulator? Thoughts?

Many times it is a sign of a short in the system somewhere. I have seen it before that I had a yellow area voltage, and when I turned on the light it went back up. Had a short in the turn signal light.

 

[Suprman]

I have a new idea for the regulator lead issue. Abandon the 24v wire and jumper a lead from the fuel solenoid positive. The other regulator lead can be disconnected and taped off. Leaving just the 24 volt lead to the regulator. I have not tried this yet so if anyone does please let me know how it works.

 

[tburk49760]

Well, my turn signal lever/switch is wonky. I'll be needing to replace it soon either way. I'll look at the other suggested items. Thanks all for the input.

 

[tburk49760]

a few pictures of my truck..
The mega custom light bar.
Trick receiver hitch and some ass hat did a hit and run on my passenger side fender... that will be fun to locate... Anyone have any leads??

 

[mkcoen]

a few pictures of my truck..
The mega custom light bar.
Trick receiver hitch and some ass hat did a hit and run on my passenger side fender... that will be fun to locate... Anyone have any leads??

Nice additions. I used to be a claims adjuster in Spokane. Lots of a$$hats in the area. Mostly transplants from Seattle and CA.

Check with Suprman on the fender. He's parting a couple of trucks so might have one.

 

[tburk49760]

Three of my trucks will be transporting veterans in the torchlight armed services parade in Spokane today! I'm excited and anxious. The LMTV will be fine it's the other two old, rare ones that I worry about. Let's hope... Pics soon.

 

[grndZr0]

I had another question. How many miles are you guys generally getting out of a set of tires? And I'm assuming most people are using the surplus government tires.

And do you know the availability of these tires woldwide? For instance if you were going to run down through South America with one.

Ryan

 

[Suprman]

Road use is hard on the tires. I think the goodyears are a little better than michelins on road. If you are out of alignment even slightly you will eat thru tires faster though.

 

[tburk49760]

I have the Goodyear mvt on mine and they were pretty near new. I've put about 6,000 miles on them ant they are about 50% tread depth. They are pretty quiet but seem to be pretty a soft compound. I have 8 of the Michelin xzl and I'm hoping they are a much harder compound. Not sure when I'll install them... Not sure on world wide availability. I plan on starting the expedition camper build eventually and will likely allow for two spares and a really good plug kit...

 

[mkcoen]

Well, my turn signal lever/switch is wonky. I'll be needing to replace it soon either way. I'll look at the other suggested items. Thanks all for the input.

Did you ever replace the turn signal stalk? If so what did you pay for it?

 

[tburk49760]

I paid a fair price from lmtv722. It should arrive this week. Install looks like a bitch.