Posted by Bob Fetters on June 07, 1998 at 14:30:50:
In Reply to: Re: M56C??? posted by Dave Ball on June 06, 1998 at 23:24:24:
My TM 9-2320-212-20P Technical Manual Feb. 1960 lists three versions of the M56 truck chassis. The M56, M56C and M56B1. There is a single illustration of the left side view labeled M56 that shows a M37 Cab with hardtop and the spare tire bolted flat to the frame just behind the cab. The fuel tank filler neck appears to be suported by nothing and is just sticking up in the air. There is a different Federal Stock Number for each version. There are infact 4 FSNs. 2320-294-4942 M56, 2320-835-8618 M56 W/Winch, 2320-219-7329 M56C W/Winch, and 2320-542-4634 M56B1 W/Winch.
This is the long wheelbase version of the M37 as used for the M43 Ambulance, V41 Signal Corps version of the M201 & M201B1 and other later variants. Since the vehicle is identified as an M56C (cab & chassis) I would surmise it had a body attached for some special purpose beyond the usual issue of vehicles as these had their own model numbers. M37, M42, M43, V-41/M201 etc. I checked this Tech. Manual for listings for the M56 and found none other than the FSNs. I had hoped to find the rear springs or rear drive shafts listed to verify the 14 inch longer wheelbase and heavier capacity as found on the M43 and V41. It does appear from the FSN that the M56C came with a winch. BOB