Hard tops in Alaska


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Posted by J. Calhoun on July 27, 1999 at 13:34:58:

In Reply to: Are all M-37s soft-tops? posted by K.G. on July 27, 1999 at 11:30:56:

There were alot of m-37's made with removable hard tops. It's about all we see here in alaska. The price tag on that rig may have seemed high, but depending on cond., it may have been a bargain. The approach Brian talks about is fun and works great, but it's not cheep either, even if you can do all the work. There's alway something, rebuilding the v-8, rebuilding the trans., finding a bellhousing/linkage/clutch/press. plate/flywheel, getting the radiator redone (a stock m-37 radiator will be marginal with a v-8).

I got my '52 for $1500. It ran, but had poor brakes and low compression. Two years later, I'm rebuilding the motor ($1500), rebuilding the front end (completely) ($300), replacing the front diff. and the transfer case (pretty much free, due to luck and scrounging, but about $400 in your area), I already rebuilt all wheel cylinders and master cylinders and replaced brake shoos ($300?),and I don't need to replace any body panels. If you can't find a parts truck, those can get high. that doesn't include upholstry, gas tank problems, electrical, or the other expensive problems you can get into. Not trying to scare you, just a reality check. I understand the concept of buying what you can afford and building it as you get the funds, but understand it will probably cost more in the end! Its a great learing experience, and these trucks are fun to work on. My wife says "it seems to involve alot of hammering...", maybe thats it...

Driving every day depends on where. If you live in the country and want to drive it to the store and to school, ok. But life on a modern freeway is just not a good idea in a truck with a practical speed limit of 45 and ultimate limit of 55 (don't try 55 for very long with a stock motor, it won't survive). They're loud and drafty and cold and slow, yet I know a guy who drives one around in Fairbanks Alaska in winter (try -40 F). The brakes, even when good, are marginal for a 7500# truck. Don't want to discourage you, just don't want you to be dissapointed after the fact.

For more info, try the m-37 link at the bottom. Good luck, I hope you find "your" truck.

John



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