Posted by Ron on August 24, 1998 at 08:03:20:
I recently purchased a WC-53 Carryall which I intend to use as local transportation around where I live in Missoula, Montana, including for driving on the logging and back-country roads to transport my gear for my hunting, dog training, fishing, whitewater canoeing, alpine/rock climbing, mountain biking, backpacking and other outdoor activities and for an occasional cross-country drive in other parts of Montana and western states. First, I am interested in assembling a repair kit containing spare parts that are most likely to fail (e.g., extra generator, starter, fan belts, fuel pump, water pump, etc.) and I would really appreciate what all that you more experienced WC-53 owners might recommend for such a kit. Second, I am interested in learning what improvements or modifications (e.g., swapping out the 5.83 gears for 4.89 gears to increase top-end, installing 1100x16 tires, repowering with a more powerful engine, retrofitting with improved braking system, etc.) that might be recommended so as to ensure safety, reliability and performance. Although my profession is accounting/finance/law, I grew up in the automobile repair trade and worked my way through college as a mechanic specializing in Chrysler/Plymouth/Dodge automobiles; therefore, I have a solid baseline of skills and experience to draw upon to maintain and improve my new (old) WC-53. I am anxious to learn as much as possible from anybody who is willing to share your experience and knowledge. If you wish to dialogue directly with me, my email address is kaikiefer@aol.com. Best regards, Ron.