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jefe_4x4's avatar
jefe_4x4
Explorer
Mar 16, 2015

1996 M-1078 S&S LMTV platform for Camper?

I don't remember anyone on here contemplating or actually bringing to fruition the idea of using a military surplus truck as a platform for a large (11.5') camper, maybe even an extra long Alaskan pop up. I posted the idea on the Expedition Portal since they would be more likely to have someone who has done this.
What is an M-1078?
http://www.military-today.com/trucks/m1078_lmtv.htm
gives all the info. The one I'm eyeing is a 1996, with 40K miles.
Bed size: 8 feet wide, 14 feet, 5 inches long with folding sides.
full time 4x4, with locking center diff for off-road. NO low range. CTIS (central tire inflation system).
Caterpillar 6.6L turbo diesel, Allison 7 speed automatic, Rockwell axles.
seats 3 in the cab.
16669 pounds, empty. 400 mile range.
load limit 5000 pounds (mil spec is notoriously underrated) so, is a 2-1/2 ton truck. A two axle deuce and a half?
built for extra power to weight advantage.
also made in a 6x6 format (M-1083) and 5 ton rating.
I read where after 1999 they upgraded the drivetrain/trans/engine which makes me think I should wait for a later version to appear in gov't surplus.
jefe

7 Replies

  • jefe_4x4's avatar
    jefe_4x4
    Explorer
    Mar 25, 2015
    My ardor for the M-1078 has faded. I already have a built-up, off-road XTC, that serves us well, so why would I want to change horses at this late date? I tried to sell the idea to my Son, Matt (C104 on here), but his heart is not in it either. So, this is the end of the story for an M-1078 for us. One side issue is I put my Jeep CJ-8 up for sale to be able to afford the M-1078. No buyers yet. A lot of, want to trade XXXX for the CJ.
    jefe
  • joerg68's avatar
    joerg68
    Nomad III
    Mar 17, 2015
    These trucks are getting popular in the serious (also as in "serious money") offroading world her ein Germany.

    Edit: like this? http://excap.de/

    Picture #74 in last year's gallery of the Abenteur & Allrad Fair (Europe's largest offroad fair, maybe a bit similar ot Overland Expo.) has a picture of two refurbished ones:

    http://www.abenteuer-allrad.de/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_view_1/public/gallery/aa2014-86_0.jpg

    in case the direct link doesn't work, you'll need to click your way way there. It may be worth the virtual trip, though ;-)

    http://www.abenteuer-allrad.de/de/gallery/messe-impressionen-2014

    I saw these in person last year. Very impressive workmanship.
  • Bedlam's avatar
    Bedlam
    Moderator
    Mar 16, 2015
    Before getting my 5500, I looked into these. The reasons I did not go with one may not be an issue for you, but I saw the following as negatives:

    1. Overall height too tall to put cabover over cab resulting in too long of a unit.
    2. Not comfortable for extended highway driving and cab would require gutting to make it comfortable.
    3. Getting service is questionable even if parts are common with commercial rigs.
    4. Licensing and insurance would be costly unless it was converted to a RV title with fixed camping space.
  • The_Mad_Norsky's avatar
    The_Mad_Norsky
    Explorer
    Mar 16, 2015
    M-1078 Military surplus trucks

    Took the liberty of making the link one that can be clicked.

    This would be quite a build for one who, as Jefe said, could bring it to the finished stage.

    Also a very functional expedition like vehicle.

    You getting the optional armor plated cab????? :B
  • Yeti_plus's avatar
    Yeti_plus
    Explorer
    Mar 16, 2015
    Looked at the pictures in the link. Neat. Can't answer any of your questions, but the combined height may be over legal height.Have to get a popup.
    Just one question.... Won't the machine gun turret interfere with the cab over??? :B:W
    Brian
  • bka0721's avatar
    bka0721
    Explorer II
    Mar 16, 2015
    Hey Jefe. One of my good life long friends (we were locker partners in High school) is a dealer for these surplus vehicles picking them all over the country. Even enlisting me to drive a few for him. One of the advantages of keeping my CDL. He would be the person I would recommend to talk with him, as he might even have one. He lives a short drive from Ft Riley. One of the forums that you should check would be one like the http://www.steelsoldiers.com/ or something like that. Let me know and I will forward your info to him.

    b

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