Posted by Matt B on Monday, June 18, 2001 at 11:32PM :
Howdy all...new here as you might guess...
My question(s) are regarding the better part of a '42 WC55 or WC56 command car that I have. I'll first point out that the truck is absolutely beyond a proper restoration, as the frame has been lengthened in a brutal fashion, and the only body parts that remain are from the firewall forward. But the original running gear seems (or seemed) solid.
My questions are drivetrain related. Firstly, a couple months ago, the 4WD quit in about a foot or so of thick snow. I didn't hear anything significant that sounded like large peices of steel breaking, the front driveshaft still spins, the U-joints are intact. Are there any weak spots up in the axle that would be a good place to start looking? I'm sort of thinking I lost a hub...but thought I'd be wise to get some insights before I tear into it.
Second question...The thing only has 4WD on, or 4WD off. One speed transfer case. Sure would be nice to get a 2 speed. Is that possible? Any ideas as to where to look?
Third question...I'd like to have a true 4 wheel drive, with both axles locked. Are such parts available for this truck? I was reading my most recent "Road and Track" this morning, and there was an article about a late 50s Corvette on which they welded the spider gears in the rear end to give it a locked differential. Would such be possible on this truck? If so, I expect it would be wise to put un-locking hubs up front. I've heard they are available. Any idea where?
Fourth question...Tires. I'd like a good snow tire tread. The military treads look OK, but obviously they are a multi-purpose tread, and I'd like to find something a little more designed for mud & snow. Is there a modern tire size that would replace the 9.0 x 16 that would be tough, and fit the rims? (with tubes, of course)
Keep in mind that this truck is going to be used on my mountain property and will probably never see a paved road again in its life (which should be long, if I can get it sorted out). I just need something that will get up my driveway in the winter, mybe push some snow from time to time, or drag some logs. Its a budget project starting with a $200 truck...so I don't want to invest too much unless I know its going to work for a long time.
Thanks!
-Matt
Northern Colorado
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