BUY – SELL – TRADE - APPRAISE FFL or C&R required with all ¿rearms purchases. <RXU VDWLVIDFWLRQ DVVXUHG ZRXU XVXDO GD\ LQVSHFWLRQ ffi GD\ WLPH SD\ DFFHSWHG www.hayesotoupalik.com Hayes Otoupalik P.O. Box 8423, Missoula, MT 59807 Phone: (406) 549-4817 • Fax: (406) 543-0040 E-mail: [email protected] Fellow 1. WW1 Princess Mary’s Christmas 1914 fancy brass cigarette box which was sent to each British Soldier. Exc Condition. Very Ornate...........................$95. 2. Original German WW1 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class with ribbon. Nice shape.........................................................................................$125. 3. Orig. British 1945 WW2 DFC w/ribbon and bar. Complete with DFC w/ ribbon and both in the original titled leather box of issue. Exc Cond.................$1500. 4. Orig. British 1917-1935 Knights Commander of the Order of the British Empire with Ribbon in titled leather box: CBE Mily. All made by Garrard & Co. Ltd. Exc Cond ...............................................................................................$1500. 5. Original WW1 German Iron Cross lst Class in its original fitted leather box of issue. Nice Condition. Rare to find with box...........................................$250. 6. Orig. German 1870 Iron Cross 2nd Class with very rare original non combatant ribbon. Nice Condition ........................................................................$300. 7. Original French Mexican Campaign 1862-1863 with ribbon. Very Rare.....$550. 8. Original French 1860 China Expedition Medal with Ribbon. Very Scarce...$600. 9. Orig. Italian China Campaign Medal 1900-1901 w/ ribbon. Boxer Rebellion. Exc Condition and very rare .................................................................$800. 10. Orig. Japan Army 1900 China Boxer Rebellion Medal with ribbon...........$250. 11. Orig French Tonkin Campaign Sino-French War 1885. Army Version with Ribbon...............................................................................................$250. 12. Orig. French China Campaign Medal Boxer Rebellion 1900-1901 w/ribbon. Rare ..................................................................................................$750. 13. WW1 Imperial German Machine Gunners Chest plate in Excellent Condition and 85% original feldgrau paint. Missing the lower plates. Rare Maxim 08 MG item...................................................................................................$750. 14. I just purchased a collection of 132 WW1 US Victory Medals with various bars on them .........................................Please let me know what you are seeking. 15. Original 1913 RIA US Cavalry Patton Swordsman Badge. Exc Cond. Rare ................................................................................................$1750. 16. Orig. US Army 14 Kt. Gold US Distinguished Marksman Medal. Circa 1900 - 1920. Early issue that were usually not named.....................................$1200. WANTED TO BUY: Gold, Sterling or Bronze US Army Shooting Prizes 1881 to 1902. 17. Imperial Japanese Army Officer’s Parade Cap with bullion Trim, and Red Feather plume. Nice Condition. Complete.............................................$350. 18. US M1881 US 7th Cavalry Officer’s Dress Helmet with the bullion Triplette Cords on Helmet and complete with Bullion Chest Cords. Body is in beautiful condition. Beautiful Yellow Plume. US Regulation Helmet from 1881 to 1902 .......................................................................................................$2250. 19. WW1 US Army M1913 Warner Swasey Sniper Scope for Springfield 1903 Rifle with complete windage and elevation mount, & Original Leather Scope case. Has original Rubber eye piece. Comes with exact reproduction mounting Rail for Rifle ............................................................................................$1500. 20. WW1 16th Queen’s Lancer Helmet/Shako w/brass front plate with battle honors. Lion head bosses on sides with brass chin chain. Horse Hair plume on side. Very nice cond. throughout. The 16th lead the British Cavalry Charge of the Light Brigade. Outstanding service in WW1 ....................................$1750. 21. Original M1890 US Indian Scout Dress Helmet with long red and white Horse Plume, Front Eagle plate and side buttons all with Indian Scout Crossed arrow insignia. Complete with orginal Red White Helmet Triplette and Chest Cords with Waffles and Tassels. VF/ Exc Cond. Beautiful Cond, and one of the most gorgeous US Mounted Helmets of the American Indian Wars signifying the unification of the red & white races in taming the American West...........$2850. 22. Original Scottish Black Watch Pipers Highlander Regiment black feathered Bonnet with/Red hackle in front over the Silver Black Watch Badge. Exc Condition. Rare ..................................................................................$950. 23. An Edwardian First Lifeguards Officer’s Helmet, the white metal skull with gilt crowned oak leaf and laurel wreath helmet plate, faceted white metal rayed star with centred pierced gilt garter HONI SOIT QUI MAL Y PENSE on a blue enamelled ground with central red enamelled cross on a gilt ground, fluted white metal finial with gilt bun shaped foot on a gilt rayed star base, gilt rosette bosses, leather backed chin chain, leather liner, white horse hair plume. Exc. Condition .........................................................................................$2500. 24. As above in Identical Condition, and complete with Red Horse Hair Plume .......................................................................................................$2500. 25. I have two other First Lifeguards Officer’s Helmets. email or call for details. 26. British, Pre WWI Royal Artillery Officers Dress Helmet in Exc Cond. Marker label in crown, no mothing, all gilted metal is excellent plus with leather backed chain chin strap ..................................................................................$750. 27. WWI 1902-1918 British London Rifle Brigade Shako with front plate, bird feather plume. Maker’s imprint in crown and exc and all original throughout .........................................................................................................$750. 28. Rare WW2 set of US Mountain Troop Lot of 4 Aluminum tent stakes .......$100. 29. WW2 12 Unit Jeep First Aid Box with all stenciling on lid and complete with original contents. Scarce.....................................................................$250. 30. WW1 “USQMC 8 Oz Hardbread” sealed tin. Two of these were issued to each Doughboy. Have one, exc cond, Rare...................................................$385. 31. WW1 US M1917 Helmet with Complete Liner and Chinstrap. Very nice condition............................................................................................$225. 32. WW1 White Cloth Medical Tourniquest with Buckle. Mint condition with US Med. Dept markings ..................................................... $25.00 or 5 for $100 33. WW1 US M1911 Cavalry Spur Straps. Original, Like New Cond. Complete upper and lower straps for spurs. The Set...............................................$25. 34. M1903 US Army Cartridge Belt Suspenders. Exc+ condition .................$225. 35. M1907 US Army Cartridge Belt Suspenders. Exc+ Condition.................$225. 36. WW1 US Army Cartridge Belt Suspenders. Exc cond.............................$225. 37. US Cavalry M1909 Bridle Complete with Eagle Rosettes, M1909 Bit and set of Reins. VG condition.............................................................................$250. 38. Set of Six Exact Reproduction McClellan Saddle m1904 Russet leather Coat Straps with Buckles.............................................................................$100. 39. WW1 M1904 Russet leather Saddle Bags with Canvas Liners, and leather tie down straps to saddle. US embossing on flaps. All original and no later civilian alterations as found on many saddle bags.............................................$300. 40. WW1 US Army Skeleton Rigged Quartermaster’s Packer’s Saddle, and in very nice condition throughout. Scarce .......................................................$750. 41. WW1 US Army Quartermaster Packer’s Saddle Pommel Pockets Exc condition. Rare...................................................................................$325. 42. WW1 US Doughboy’s folding Tent Pole with Brass Slides and complete with five Oak Tent Pegs. The set..................................................................$100. 43. WW1 US Army Shelter half with the Starburst Buttons. VG original condition throughout. Rare to find ......................................................................$225. 44. WW1 Doughboy’s M1904 Wool Blanket with US embroidered in center and brown stripe on either end. VG cond.....................................................$150. 45. WW1 US Cavalry M1908 Saddle Blanket with the two brown stripes on either end and embr. US & Ordnance Bomb in center. VG ...............................$350. 46. WW1 M1912 Cavalry Picket Pin with leather Carrying Case. These were carried strap to the M1913 Patton Sword. Nice cond .............................$150. 47. WW1 M1912 Detacheable Shovel Blade for Picket Pin. Nice, Rare .........$150. 48. WW1 US Army Knife, Fork and Spoon set for Mess Kit, the set.................$60. 49. WW1 US Army Model 1910 Mess Kit with Lid, M1916 Bacon Can w/lid & Condiment Tin as issued to each Doughboy. The set .............................$100. 50. WW1 US Calvary Lead Rope with Snaphook. Mint cond.........................$100. 51. WW1 German Seebatallion Tschadio Pickelhaube silver colored plate. Two mounting post on back. Exc cond. Rare................................................$125. 52. WW1 orig. German Colonial Prussian Pickelhaube Brass Plate. Ywo mounting posts on back. Very Nice condition. Rare..............................................$100. 53. WW1 Prussian Infantry NCO Brass Trimmed Spike Helmet in Exc conn. throughout. Needs just cockades and chinstrap to complete..................$695. 54. WW1 Prussian Infantry Enlisted Spike Helmet Plate. Exc cond. ................$75. 55. WW1 Imperial German Enlisted Grey Metal got Mits Uns Belt Buckle in Excellent condition...............................................................................$100 56. WW1 1917 Dated GEW98 Mauser Butcher Bayonet w/scab VG...............$200 57. 19TH Century British Royal Navy Officer’s Dirk with Scabbard. 18” Etched blade. Brass mounted leather scabbard. Exc. condition throughout. Made by Manton & Co. London ..........................................................................$350 58. WW2 US RH PAL 36 Knife with Leather Sheath. 90% original Finish on blade. Nice Cond..........................................................................................$125. 59. WW2 US Navy Collins Mark 1 Machete. Exc Original Condition with Proper Canvas Scab ......................................................................................$145. 60. WW2 Winchester lapeled 25 round carton of Brass Double 00 Buckshot 12 ga cartridges for use with Winchester and other Trench Shotguns. Nice Cond..........................................................................................$395. 61. WW2 ST-34 and ST-35 Complete Web Harness Set for Telephone Wire Reel. Nice.....................................................................................................$49. 62. WW1 M1917 US Army Gas Mask with Cannister in Orig. Canvas Chest Bag .........................................................................................................$125. 63. 1917A1 Watercooled Browning MG Steam Hose. Mint Condition.............$45. 64. M1880 Iron Guard Springfield Hunting Knife with Varney Swivel Scabbard. VG Rare ................................................................................................$1450. 65. Civil War M1863 Remington Zouave .58 Caliber Sword Bayonet with Scabbard. Exc....................................................................................$350. 66. WW1 US 332 Italian Exp. Force Wool blouse with bullion 332 Patch, Numbered Disc, and and Cpl. Chevron, HD, and OS Stripes. Exc Condition. Gorgeous Patch, and Rare................................................................................$1350. 67. Indian War US Circular Canteen with US on Cover & complete with Leather Shoulder Strap ...................................................................................$150. 68. Indian War US Army 5-button Blue wool Blouse w/Eagle buttons. Exc Condition ...........................................................................................$425. 69. US Model 1902 US Cavalry Enlistedman’s Dress Blouse with all Yellow piping, and complete with Yellow Chest Cords. Exc Condition............................$550. If you have a personal want list of items you are seeking please email or call as we have literally thousands of unlisted items in inventory. Thank you. PLEASE SEE OUR AUCTION OF 1000 MISC. MILITARY ITEMS FROM OUR WAREHOUSE WITH http://WWW.DAVISBROTHERSAUCTION.COM ON NOVEMBER 5 SALE. WANTED: Ordnance Optics Inc Hollywood California 4X18 Scope with No 2 Japan marked scope mount. Circa 1960s. Appreciate your help. Thanks!
52 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com This American Expeditionary Force painted helmet showed true artistry. Being just down the road from Gettysburg, it was fitting that a General Lee figure with his horse Traveler was offered for sale!
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 53 An assortment of jolly good headgear – from the British Army in the Victorian Era to German and Italian WWII era covers. A German Army panzer wrap was another notable item that was offered for sale. This painting of a Convair B-36 “Peacemaker” strategic bomber certainly falls into the category of something you might find only at a show like the MAX. At 8am on Thursday the big doors opened and it was off the races. The passion for this hobby is clearly alive and well at the 2023MAX Show.
54 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com G eneral Motors and all of its divisions, including Chevrolet, played a major role in the defense of America during World War II. The story of the company’s involvement in building the “Arsenal of Freedom”— the mountain of war materials that assured victory for the Allied Powers — is more amazing when you realize how suddenly war goods production began, how well planned the effort was and how much it contributed to winning the war in just a short span of time. Chevrolet and other GM divisions never dreamed that they would, one day, be the largest maker of military goods in the world. During World War I, GM was an important manufacturer of aircraft engines for the U.S. Army. However, the corporation’s total WWI military business was only $35 million. That compares to $12 billion of military production just before and during World War II. Auto production didn’t stop during WWI, noted GM Chairman Alfred P. Sloan, Jr., in his book My Years with General Motors. “It was possible to regard our (WWI) military work as a kind of temporary sideline,” wrote the man who was chairman of the board at GM from 1937 to 1956. After WWI, military contracts dried up quickly and GM got very little military busi-
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 55 The life and times of the WillysMT-TUG ness for about 10 years. Then, in the short time between early 1941 and late 1945, things changed dramatically. Passenger car production in the United States ground to a halt. According to Sloan, from February 1942 until September 1945, GM did not build a single passenger car in the U.S. as GM plants were converted to the manufacture of military vehicles, air-craft, war supplies and armaments. More than 113,000 workers, including several key executives, left the corporation to fight in the war. Inexperienced new workers were hired and trained in a very short period of time. Despite this major changeover in the production end of things, the executives who remained in charge also had to deal with a shrinking dealer organization that had no cars to sell and that was also seeing its members going off to war. With all the issues at hand, it’s amazing that GM didn’t just fall apart at the seams, but instead of doing that, the world’s largest automobile manufacturer very successfully became the world’s largest producer of war materials. Sloan said in his book that of the $12 billion of goods produced during the war, $8 billion came from entirely new products The Willys MT was evaluated by the U.S. Army Transport Command in 1943 and was praised for its rough-terrain abilities and overall performance, yet was ultimately rejected. However, it should be remembered that the Army had also rejected the very rugged Ford GTB “Burma Jeep,” and had also initially rejected the supremely successful GMC DUKW. BY STEVE TURCHET
56 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com that GM workers had never made before. In 1941, before war broke out, GM had a record output of $2.4 billion building cars. By two months after war started, it had received military contracts worth $2 billion, and by the end of 1942 that figure was up to $8 billion. Dealing with such a big bump in production of all-new products with fewer trained executives and many new workers was nothing short of miraculous. Luckily, GM’s Policy Committee had started planning for the war in 1940. They calculated GM facilities could make 10 percent of what the government would need to fight a war. As it turned out, the government spent $150 billion on the war and GM’s actual percentage was about 8 percent. In early planning, the corporation picked three people to handle wartime operations and later, in 1942, it set up a War Administration Committee to take care of those responsibilities. The committee decided to stick with a decentralized divisional structure so that each branch, such as Chevrolet, could handle contracts, pricing and production. Divisions contracted work to each other, so that parts for a Chevrolet truck could have been made in a Pontiac plant. Some GM plants were even leased to other companies that were better suited to make certain military goods. GM hired far more people than the number that left to fight. Corporation wide, the numbers were 244,000 new hires in 1942, 332,000 in 1943 and 156,000 in 1944. Most were unskilled workers; many were women who had never worked out of their homes before and a good number had physical disabilities. New production techniques were developed. In one tank plant, a “carousel” type conveyer was set up so that each worker did only one simple welding operation, instead of a series of difficult ones. Sloan said skilled manpower was in such short supply by 1944 that some jobs were done at GM plants with the most skilled workers, rather than those with the best machinery. GM management also had to make important decisions about contracts, pricing, profits and deal with other factors like ongoing military research and development that might call for running production changes if a certain vehicle or part was improved midstream. As far as its business dealings, the company purposely limited its profits on defense work to help the cause and preferred fixed-price contracts that promoted worker efficiency. The productivity of the unskilled Even though rejected by the U.S. Army, Willys apparently still believed in the concept of three-axle 6x6 jeeps — besides already investing resources to build prototypes — and went on to develop several other versions. One of those was the MT-TUG, conceived as a cargo/prime-mover that could do the same jobs as the Dodge and International trucks, but would save about 2,000 lbs. of steel to manufacture, as well as using about 40 percent less fuel to operate. Not only that, but it incorporated about 65 percent of a standard jeep’s existing components, while many other parts were merely modified, resulting in simplified maintenance and ease of supply and repair. One of the first proposals for a threeaxle 6x6 jeep with a ¾-ton load capacity came from the U.S. Quartermaster Corps, which wanted a self-propelled platform for mounting a 37mm gun. Willys produced several prototypes, which seem to have proven successful in testing, but then came the consideration of why build another vehicle to do the same job that existing truck chassis in mass production were already doing.
ORIGINAL AND HIGH QUALITY WW2 REPRODUCTIONS 3,000 items on-line Supplying theWWII re-enactor and collector www.militarytour.com Email:[email protected] |Telephone: 1-800-785-8644 MilitaryTour @militarytour Repro Stuff German SS Soldier’s Original Photo Album With Luftwaffe Cover WW2 German Panzer M43 EM BEVO Cap Eagle WW2 Japanese Set of 2 Flags with Japanese Soldier’s Photograph U.S.WWII Paratrooper Garrison CapWith Blue Piping And Airborne Cap Badge German SS M35 Normandy Camo Combat Helmet Single Decal GermanWWII M40 Fallschirmjager Green Jump Smock GermanWW1 M16 HelmetWith Liner And Chin Strap Original USWWI M1917 Ammunition Bandoleer Mills 1917 US M2 Helmet 506TH Parachutist - 2ND Battalion Easy Company 101ST Airborne GermanWW2Third Reich Eagle Stencil Large German Nazi Party Flag Cotton (3x5) Das Reich SS Panzer 2nd Division BEVO CuffTitle Germa M38 Leather Chinstrap For Paratrooper Helmet Original Stuff 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend Ring Since 1998 JOIN OUR NEWLETTER FORWEEKLY SPECIALS Come join our newsletter and get 10% discount on first order German DeutscheJungvolk / HitlerYouth Sieg Rune Patch U.S.WW2 Unissued Hawley Paper M1 Helmet Liner Rare Original
58 Military Trader & Vehicles / October 2023 www.militarytrader.com workers had to be monitored to improve it as time went by. With more earnings, came substantially higher taxes that had to be planned for, too. Top management wasn’t stable, either. In 1940, President Franklin D. Roosevelt enlisted William S. Knudsen — who had headed Chevrolet until 1937 — to come to Washington to head the War Production Board. In January 1942, Knudsen became a Lt. General in the U.S. Army. He is the only civilian to ever join the Army at such a high starting rank. Knudsen served as a War Department consultant and problem solver. He remained in the service until June 1, 1945. Chevrolet dealers were impacted by the war as well. Sales hummed in 1941, when Americans stocked up on cars in case war broke out. Then, sales ran into a brick wall in early 1942. Before long, cars in inventory had to be sold according to government regulations. Some dealers closed and others signed up to fight or got drafted. Those who stayed open relied on service work and a trickle of used-car sales to keep their doors open. To prevent panic, GM offered to buy back cars and parts, give dealers who closed preferential treatment to help them re-start following the war and offer special allotments of postwar models (for two years after the war) to those dealers who chose to stay open. M.E. Coyle was Chevrolet’s general manager as the war clouds rained on America. By 1940, his division was already producing combat vehicles used by the British Army’s famous Long Range Desert Group (LRDG) that later inspired the 1966-1968 TV show “Rat Patrol.” The LRDG was formed in Egypt in 1940 and consisted of British, New Zealand and Rhodesian fighters who battled Germany’s Field Marshal Rommel in the North African desert. Their tan-colored cut-down Chevy VA and WA 1-1/2-ton trucks were fitted with machine guns. Scale models of them have been produced by the Revell model company. By 1940, Chevrolet was also starting to produce some early U.S. military models of light- and medium-duty trucks in a variety of body styles. Both 4x2 pickups and Carry-All Suburbans were supplied, as well as 1-1/2-ton 4x2 and 4x4 trucks in cargo, tractor, dump, van, auger, maintenance, stake, cargo and bomb service models. Just a single rare military tow truck with a Holmes twin-boom wrecker was also made. Chevy COE trucks that rode on rails were built. In 1940 and Chevy also signed its first military contract to make 75mm shells. By 1941, Chevrolet had signed a number of contracts with the military to supply Chevrolet staff cars (standard sedans with military markings), small- and medium-duty trucks, shells, parts for anti-aircraft “yak-yak” guns and Pratt & Whitney aircraft engines. America knew that it was going to be drawn into the fighting against the Axis Powers that had been taking place in other parts of the world for several years. What wasn’t obvious was the suddenness and size of the involvement that would begin as the year wound towards its end. Another view of an MT apparently configured as a personnel carrier. This superb model of a Willys MT configured as a mobile self-propelled gun platform shows the articulation of the rear suspension, which gave the vehicle outstanding rough terrain capabilities. One hint that there may have been more MTs manufactured than the commonly accepted figure of 24, is a maintenance supplement for an MT-TUG in the 1943 TM10-1513 technical manual. Willys proposed that one version of the MT could double as both cargo carrier and tactical ambulance, but that would have gone against the rules of the Geneva Conventions.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 59 • Wheel Bearings & Seals • Pre-Bent Steel Brake & Fuel Line Sets • Bellhousings & Clutch Pan Covers • Water Pumps • Exhaust Systems & Brackets • Engine Parts & Gaskets • Ring & Pinions • Winch & PTO Parts • Carburetor Kits • Choke & Throttle Cables • Starters & Generators • Lights, Bulbs & Wiring • Transmission Parts, Gaskets & Seals • Transfer Case Parts, Gaskets & Seals • Emergency Brake Parts • Individual Front & Rear Axle Parts • Steering Parts • Springs, Shocks & Shackles • Fenders & Fender Brackets • Tailgates & Tailgate Chains • Canvas Tops & Straps • Top Bows & Corners • Drive Shafts • Miscellaneous Parts We have a huge selection for1939-1971 Dodge trucks! • NOS PARTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD • HIGH QUALITY REPRODUCTION PARTS • BOOKS, MANUALS & ACCESSORIES • USED & HARD TO FIND PARTS WORLD’S LARGEST SUPPLIER OF 1939-71 2WD & 4WD MILITARY & CIVILIAN DODGE TRUCK PARTS ORDER TOLL FREE: 888-695-0578 WE SHIP WORLDWIDE - For orders outside of the U.S. & Canada, please call 641-472-4665 Email: [email protected] www.vintagepowerwagons.com 302 South 7th Street - Fairfield, IA 52556 Looking for parts for your 4X4 or 2WD Dodge Truck? REPRODUCTION AND NEW PARTS INCLUDING: • Closed-Cab Windshield Frames • Glove Boxes/Glove Box Doors • Air-Locking Differentials • Stainless Steel Fuel Tanks • Sheet Metal & Brackets ASK ABOUT OUR PRINTED CATALOG
60 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com On Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese Navy planes —353 in all —l aunched a surprise attack on the U.S. military base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. They damaged or destroyed 16 U.S. ships and 188 aircraft, killed 2,402 men and wounded 1,282 others. The next day Roosevelt called it a “Day of Infamy” and war was soon declared. Chevrolet production lasted only a few weeks after that, during which time many Chevys were made as blackout models with painted trim and other changes. By the end of January, all Chevrolet factories, except the Saginaw plant where spare vehicle parts were made, were fully converted to war production. Few Chevrolet cars were purchased by the military prior to 1928, but in 1929 the Army began using them and bought a lot of AC International models that were basically stock, except for the addition of oversized 20-inch tires. Some of these were still in service at Army camps in 1941. However, with the outbreak of war, both the Army and Navy purchased as many stockpiled 1942 Chevys as they could get. Most were entry-level Master Deluxe sedan, although a few lucky officers got to ride around in Fleetline Sportmaster models. Many military staff cars carried small blackout lights on the front fender tops and the grilles and body moldings were painted Olive Drab for Army use and gray for Navy use. These cars showed up stateside and overseas, but Chevrolet also manufactured the 1940 WA 1-1/2-ton field ambulance that was intended only for stateside use. It had the same 216.5- cid 90-hp “stovebolt” six as the cars, although it weighed5,485 lbs. The field ambulances were based on civilian panel trucks and had a modified rear bumper with a fold-down step in the center. Inside were wooden bench seats for up to eight patients and jump seats for two attendants. Various government agencies used the 462 ambulances built. Later, some of the stockpiled 1941 and 1942 Chevys were also converted into 1-1/2-ton field ambulances, also for stateside use. These had four-speed gearboxes, special smooth riding springs and extra patient compartment windows and vents. Chevrolet Series AK 1/2-ton pickups, panel trucks, Suburban Carry-Alls and canopy express trucks with a variety of modifications saw military use during World War II, as did BN Series 1-ton versions of the pickup, panel and canopy express. Many pickups were fitted with “covered wagon” style canvas canopies, as well as heavy bumpers, blackout lights and painted brightwork. It was not unusual to see the front fenders of trucks cut back for larger military style tires. During 1943, the Army held a competition for the design of an extra-light-weight 1/2-ton “mini-Jeep.” Chevrolet competed with Ford, Willys, Crosely and Kaiser and came up with a 1,040-lb. vehicle powered by a 45.44-cid 20.5-hp two-cylinder Several prototypes were evaluated by the U.S. Army Air Corps, among these were MTs with a fifth-wheel for towing trailers, and an aircraft tug. The MT was lighter in weight than the trucks it could replace, had a lower silhouette, and was designed to be stackable with a unique foldable steering wheel for ease of shipping. The boxy structure on the right contained the fuel tank, which was located between the front seats. While not the best location for a large amount of gasoline, there was apparently no other place to put it and still retain the MT’s low silhouette and useful interior space.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 61 Indian motorcycle engine. Two experimental examples were built for testing at the Army’s Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. Ultimately, the development of larger aircraft eliminated the need for this type of combat vehicle. The backbone of the Army’s WWII fighting motor pool was the Chevrolet 1-1/2-ton 4x4 truck model G7107. This vehicle was a conversion of the civilian model with military grille, fenders, bumpers, wheels and gear. Chevrolet’s bigger 235-cid stovebolt six “truck” engine supplied 83 hp at3100 rpm and drove through a four-speed gearbox. A two-speed transfer case was also fitted. These trucks came in 125-, 145- and 175-inch wheelbase versions measuring between 221 and 296 inches in length. Dual rear wheels were used on the single-axle trucks and the long-wheelbase model had double rear axles with dual tandem wheels. A 9-foot cargo box, made of wood or steel, was that standard military configuration. Five pockets on each side of the bed held stakes or bows for a fabric roof and also supported side racks. On cargo trucks, a canvas canopy was used with a canvas end curtain enclosure. A civilian cab with minor modifications was combined with the military style front end sheet metal. The bumper carried printle hooks and a heavy brush guard protected the radiator grille. Some trucks carried winches at the top center of the front bumper. The trucks had a top speed of 48 mph and a cruising range of 270 miles on 30 gallons of fuel. The Chevy 1-1/2-ton truck was adaptable to many configurations and purposes. There were 11 official version and who knows how many in-the-field custom jobs. The G7117 was the G7107 with a Garwood or Heil 10,000-lb. PTO driven winch. Next came the G7113, a cab-and-chassis with a fifth wheel for hauling military semi-trailers. The Army needed dump trucks, so the GT106 model had a hydraulic dump body. The hoists were built by Perfection, Heil or Hercules. Naturally, the dump with a big winch was the G7116. G7105 was a van body version and G7163 was a telephone truck with boring equipment to erect phone poles. If you had field phones, you needed to maintain them and the G7173 was for that job. The G7123 was the COE (cab-overengine) Chevy 1-1/2-tonner. This power train placement allowed a longer 16-ft. stake body with racks. When the COE was stretched to a 175-inch wheelbase it became the G7127. The last version was the M6 bomb service truck and was more distinctive. It had a very short 125-inch wheelbase and a Jeep-like open body and didn’t always require dual rear wheels, although they were available. A 4,000-lb. winch and handoperated hoist were used for loading and unloading the bomb trailers the M6 towed. There was no roof over the cab, except for a small canvas top. Driver and passenger bucket seats were up front and three seats were in the rear. Electric trailer brakes were standard equipment. For a military truck, the M6 was low so that it could go underneath the wings of bombers. Chevrolet built 86,771 of the G7107 cargo trucks, 26,108 of the G7117, an unknown number of G7113 tractors, 5,098 of the G7106 dumps and 9,297 of the G7116 version, 3,632 of the G7105 vans, 1,719 of the G7163 auger trucks, 4,328 of the G7173 maintenance trucks, 581 COE G7123 stakes, 391 of the long-wheelbase G7127 COE cargo trucks and 7,857 M6 bomb service trucks. Staghound T17E1 and T17E2 four-wheel armored cars were another of Chevrolet’s contributions to the war effort. These were small tank-like wheeled units made for scouting the enemy or protecting supply convoys. The T17E1 carried a 37-mm main gun and a .30-caliber machine gun in the turret, as well as a .30-caliper machine gun in its welded-steel hull. It was not approved for use by U.S. forces, but 2,844 were built for British forces between 1941 and 1943. Chevy also made 100 of a T17E2 model with twin .50-caliber anti-aircraft guns. The Brits also had success with a “bulldoggish-looking” British-built Chevy-based truck called the C15A, while GM of Canada built a similar driver-forward 4x4 utility vehicle known as the C8. These were used by British, Canadian and Australian combat troops, as well as by Mounties. They served as personnel carriers, radio transporters, ambulances and field offices. References: Information from75 Years of Chevrolet by George H. Dammann, Crestline Publishing (1986) and U.S.Military Wheeled Vehicles by Fred W. Crismon, Crestline Publishing (1983) used with the permission of George H. Dammann. Information fromthe Standard Catalog of U.S. Military Vehicles1940-1965, by Thomas Berndt, Krause Publications(1993). In regard to how many MT-TUGs – or, generically, three-axle 6X6 jeeps — were actually built, one prevailing opinion is only 15. However, this figure seems improbable, given the documented information on the number of units and variants tested. The second most prevalent opinion is that 24 were built, but, again considering the number of prototypes tested, the 24 figure seems more likely, with a high probability there were actually more.
64 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com BY PETER SUCIU A t the 4th Infantry Division Museum at Fort Carson, Colorado there is a simple display of a fairly plain World War II officer’s uniform on a mannequin with a hand-painted sign nearby that says, “The War Starts Here.” The quote isn’t exactly what was said, but together this exhibit honors a man who had some big shoes to fill. The display is of Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt Jr., the son of President Teddy Roosevelt, the assistant commander of the 4th Infantry Division, who at 56 years of age was the oldest man to take part in the D-Day landings and the only general to land with the first wave of soldiers. On June 6, 1944 the general truly would have made his more famous father proud by going ashore with his men. Roosevelt, who had already reached a higher rank than his esteemed father, actually had to make multiple petitions to be on the first wave of Normandy landings at Utah Beach. As ADC, or assistant commander, of the 4th Infantry Division, he argued that his place was with his men, and like his father he didn’t want to command from a safe distance. However, no one in the Allied high command wanted the son of a former president of the United States to be killed in action. Requests by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill to be on one of the ships that made up the invasion fleet had already been denied, but Roosevelt was granted his wish and he landed with his men. It could be argued that he was the right man for the job, as the landing craft drifted almost a mile before making landfall. General Roosevelt assessed the situation as only a commander in the field could do, and rather than try to lead his troops back to the original landing zone, he said instead, “we’ll start the war from right here!” In many ways that statement and the fighting spirit could also sum up the 4th Infantry Division, whose motto remains “Steadfast and Loyal.” The unit’s story, from the its foundation to the modern day, is told at the small but impressive museum that stands just outside the main gates at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs. The World Wars to the Modern Day The 4th Infantry Divisionwas organized at Camp Greene, N.C., in December 1917 as part of the buildup of the American Expeditionary Force, which was soon to head to France and join the fighting on the Western Front in World War I. The unit took part in the brutal fighting during the St. Mihiel Offensive followed by the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, where it served with distinction. While Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt wasn’t in the best of health as he had already suffered a heart attack, he was determined to lead his men ashore at Utah Beach. The 4th Infantry Museum has a display that depicts the general as he looked on June 6, 1944. A steadfastshrine of U.S. military history
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 65 The unit was reactivated in June 1940 and took part in the DDay landings, with members of the 8th Infantry Regiment of the 4th ID claiming to be the first surface-borne Allied units to land in France on June 6, 1944. The unit later saw action in Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany. After World War II, the 4th ID was the deployed in Germany as part of NATO operations, then in 1966 it was sent to the Central Highlands in Vietnam. It saw intense fighting with the People’s Army of Vietnam along the Cambodian border. From 1970 to 1995 the unit was stationed at Fort Carson. The 4th Infantry Division has played a substantial role in the Global War on Terror with units deployed in both Afghanistan and Iraq. Members of the unit’s 1st Brigade Combat Team participated with United States special operations forces in Operation Red Dawn in December 2003, and captured Saddam Hussein, former President of Iraq. In total 20 men who served in the 4th Infantry Division, including Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., were awarded the Medal of Honor, proving again that this unit had some seriously hard chargers in its ranks. These men have a fitting place of honor in the museum as well. The Museum Collection The 4th Infantry Division Museum chronicles the history of the hard fighting unit with key pieces that date back to the First World War, including captured German small arms, helmets and equipment. The bulk of the collection currently on display highlights the role the unit played in the D-Day landings as well as in the liberation of France, Belgium and Luxembourg. Many of the items have been donated by 4th Infantry Division veterans, and some are especially unique. These include a French bicycle from the 1940s, which was used in Vietnam by communist forces to move material down the Ho Chi Minh Trail. It was donated to the museum by a Vietnam combat veteran who managed to get it back to the United States. While photos show that hundreds of bicycles were employed by the Vietcong, this is one of only a handful that is believed to still exist. Another unusual piece is a common block of polystyrene foam — but this one was painted to resemble a concrete block and used to conceal Saddam Hussein’s “spider hole” where he hid from coalition forces after Operation Iraqi Freedom. At the The 4th Infantry Division Museum at Fort Carson, Col. The 4th Infantry Division was raised to go “over there” during World War I. This display depicts that standard trench of the Western Front. While America could supply the men, U.S. soldiers had to rely on outside sources for equipment. The helmets are of British design and this display shows a British Vickers water-cooled machine gun.
66 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com time of his capture in December 2003, Hussein was found with $750,000 in U.S. currency and two fake gold bars. The museum currently has the original box, which is displayed with replica currency, but it does have the two “gold bars” that Hussein had with him. It isn’t clear if Hussein knew the bars were fakes or if it was part of some ploy. The gold plating on the Al Kadisa rifle — the Iraqi copy of the Soviet-designed SVD “Dragunov” sniper rifle — however, is very real. The rifle was reportedly a gift to Uday Hussein, Saddam’s eldest son, and was captured at one of Saddam’s palaces, which was later occupied by the 4th ID. This museum is quite “kid friendly” and features a number of “hands on” items, including helmets and other gear that the younger (or even older) visitors can try on. For a compact museum it is filled with history of the hard fighting unit. The 4th Infantry Museum also features a notable “vehicle garden,” with several World War II and Cold War armored vehicles as well as a current M1A1Abrams tank on display. This serves to denote the lineage of tank companies within the unit throughout its distinguished history. Among the small arms in the museum’s collection are a longbarreled German 9mm Luger and a Colt Model 1917 Revolver – the latter was produced due to shortages of the Colt Model 1911 pistol. Both Colt handguns fired a .45-caliber round. A pair of captured German “stahlhelms” (steel helmets) and a rare German gas mask are on display with an early “egg style” hand grenade. All these items were donated to the museum.
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68 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Various equipment that was used by the 4th Infantry Division during World War II – this includes the gaiters that were worn over low boots as well as the later war “double buckle boots” that most soldiers favored. In addition this exhibit features a late-war Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) – with carrying handle but with the bi-pod removed to reduce weight. The weapons and gear of the enemy! This exhibit includes a Waffen SS visor cap to an officer, a German Model 35 steel helmet, K-98 Mauser rifle, MG-42 machine gun, MP-40 submachine gun and C-96 “Broom handle” pistol. By World War II the American military had its own .30- caliber machine gun as noted by this vehicle display, which features a wartime era air-cooled Browning .30-cal. 4th Infantry Division Museum 6013 Nelson Blvd, Fort Carson, CO 80913 Phone: 719-524-0915 www.carson.army.mil/museum.html Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed all federal holidays.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 69 SE MN Military Show November 11 & 12, 2023 Table rent $60 for 8’tables, must be paid in advance. Reservations and payment must be made by September 15th. Display tables are $30. Display tables shall have relevant displays during public hours. Ghost tables for Friday ONLY; $60. Normal admission applies to ghost table holders on Saturday and Sunday. Tables will be $75 each if not post marked or paid by September 22nd. Veteran organizations are welcome and will receive a table at no cost. 2 Table badges will be allowed for the tables. Helpers will be allowed for set up and take down. Please do not share extra table passes with nonvendors or people not intending to help for the entire show. Dealerset up will begin on Friday,November 10th at 1200 hours.The doors will open to vendors at 0700 on Saturday and Sunday. Social hour and meet & greet will be held from 1600-1800 hours on Friday. All vendors are encouraged to attend. The show will provide a meal ticket and beverage ticket with each reservation. Food will also be available for purchase for helpers and others. Admittance $10 per person (Children 14 and under are free with adult admission) A block of hotel rooms will be available at the AmericaInn in Northfield for out-of-town dealers. This show is dedicated to the hobby of collecting miltaria. All military items are welcome from all wars. Firearms, bayonets, accessories, inert ordnance, uniforms and accessories are all included. Non-military related items are not allowed. Military displays are welcome and encouraged. Public Hours Saturday 0800 – 1500 Sunday 0800 – 1400 90+ Tables Location: The Grand O2 Event Center 32057 64th Ave., Cannon Falls, MN 55009 For questions please email [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or call Vince 507.263.3698 or John 612.363.2930 All information and updates will be sent via email, with limited exceptions. Brought to you by the North Central Military Collectors Association LLC. Spring Show: April 13th and 14th, 2024 • Fall Show: October 26th and October 27th, 2024 Please Go To www.1944militaria.com 1944 Collectables At 1944 Militaria 1944 Militaria, 387 Rainey Rd, Woolrich Twp, NJ 08085 Phone: 856.294.9310 Email: [email protected] We Offer A Nice Selection Of Original German & US WWII Memorabilia We Buy Small & Large Collections Scan QR Code To Take You To Our Website Accepting PayPal, Visa, MasterCard & Discover Sign Up For Our Weekly Website Newsletter Trades & Payment Plans Are Available!
70 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com A French bicycle that was modified to move equipment down the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam. This was brought back circa 1970 by a veteran of the 4th Infantry Division. A gold-plated Al Kadisa rifle – the Iraqi copy of the Soviet-designed SVD “Dragunov” sniper rifle – that was reportedly given as a gift by Saddam Hussein to his eldest son Uday Hussein. An M4 Carbine that was issued and carried by Staff Sgt. Clinton L. Romesha, who earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Kamdesh in 2009 in Afghanistan. Romesha has served tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. This foam block was painted with sand and concrete to help conceal the “spider hole” where Saddam Hussein hid to escape coalition forces. He was finally found in December 2003 by a team that included members of the 4th Infantry Division.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 71 An M47 “Patton” Tank in the vehicle garden of the 4th Infantry Division Museum. An M24 light tank that was used in the latter part of World War II and in the Korean War. ABOVE LEFT: The wall of honor recognizes the 20 4th Infantry Division winners of the Medal of Honor. Eleven of those men saw action in Vietnam, while five – including Theodore Roosevelt – saw service in World War II. One was awarded the Medal of Honor for service in World War I and three for their service in Afghanistan. ABOVE RIGHT: The look of the “Doughboy” in 1917-18 including the heavy wool American uniform with British designed Model 1917 steel helmet, gasmask and American Springfield 1903 .30-caliber rifle. The German Luger pistol was captured in France by a member of the 4th Infantry Division in 1918. LEFT: This metal box was found with Saddam Hussein by coalition forces in Iraq in 2003. It contained $750,000 in U.S. currency along with two fake gold bars of gold. The cash on display, however, is a replica.
72 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com BY JOHN GUNNELL D ave Kersztyn is president of the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center in Oshkosh, Wis. He is also the proud owner of two restored 1963 Impala Super Sports (one with a 327 and one with a 409) as well as a ’67 Corvette that he says is “pretty much back to original now.” Kersztyn has an engineering degree and a background in internal combustion engines. “I was a car builder all my life until I got addicted to Army Green paint,” he says. “Now I got a little green paint on me and I can’t get it off.” Dale Anderson welcomed us to the museum. Before turning us over to Kersztyn, he pointed out that it is a small collection with an emphasis on military vehicles. The fact that it houses the John E. Kuenzl Motor Pool makes it the largest military vehicle museum in Wisconsin. Some vehicles housed there include Willys and Kaiser Jeeps, a Willys ambulance, troop carriers, a Kaiser tanker, a half-track, a IH wrecker and a replica Vietnam War-era gun truck named “Brutus” that protected supply convoys. The collection also includes an authentic Soviet World War II tank that was used in the movie “Ant Man.” Located close to the well-known Experimental Aircraft Assoc. (EAA) Museum, the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center is operated by dedicated volunteers, including mechanics who are responsible for the upkeep of the various military vehicles on display there. There are about 25 vehicles and pieces of equipment in the motorpool, ranging from a small M274A Willys 4x4 1/2-ton mechanical mule to an M54 5-ton truck. There is one example of each generation of military Jeeps, including a WWII Willys MB. The original Brutus gun truck was used in the Vietnam War. It was built in 1969 and was used from January of the same year until May 1972. It had a 7.62mm gun at the rear, as well as two forward .50-caliber machine guns. The replica of the Brutus on display at the Military Veterans Museum’s motor pool was created by around 20 volunteers. The project was started by one of the original drivers of Brutus, a man named Roger Blink. Oshkosh is home to Wisconsin’slargestMV museum This Kaiser-Jeep M-725 ambulance (without a winch) is one of the standout vehicles at the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center in Oshkosh, Wis.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 73 About 3,000 people per year visit the Museum. The majority are veterans or veterans’ families. Visitors recommend the guided tour because many facts and stories are included. In addition to military vehicles, on display in another part of the museum are uniforms and artifacts from the Arizona and Wisconsin battleships. There is also a small gift shop. “Friendly people, an interesting collection and well worth one to two hours of your time,” wrote one visitor who had stopped at the museum and obviously enjoyed it. The Military Veterans Museum and Education Center is open to the public for free, but small donations are appreciated. Any and all donations help pay for the upkeep involved in museum operations. The regular Museum hours are Friday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The military vehicles and equipment are also available for parades, military events, ceremonies and re-enactments. Local events can request the vehicles for free. There may be a transportation fee for vehicles that need to travel some distance. For information about the museum call 920- 426-8615. Kersztyn said the museum hosts many groups, from elementary and high school students to members of old car clubs. “We have people coming in for various reasons and events,” Kersztyn emphasized. “We would really love to host a Jeep club or a Jeep tour if such a group was open to something like that.” No MV fleet would be complete with a big M-54 5-ton truck. A military vehicle lover’s dream — vehicles of all types and vintages packed in close!
74 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com A Korean War era M38 Jeep. A nice example of a Kaiser M715 cargo truck. This fabulous WWII Willys MB with machine gun mount would look great in any collection. A fully restored Willys M38A1 built sometime between 1950-1957
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 75 Overlooked Antique Military Surplus $5.00 ADMISSION INCLUDES BOTH DAYS CHILDREN UNDER 12 ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT ARE ADMITTED FREE Table rental fee $40.00 for each 6’ table 8’ end cap tables are available for $50.00 each in advance Overnight security is provided; within walking distance of several restaurants & hotels BUY-SELL-TRADE • VINTAGE MILITARY COLLECTABLES November 17 and 18, 2023 Reserve Tables for the Annual Collector’s Show 250 Tables Available OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE ON SITE APPRAISALS Fri. November 17th, 4:00-7:00 pm & Sat. the 18th, 9:00-4:00 pm • Vendor set-up to begin Friday at Noon Event location: 123 Esplanade St., Leavenworth, KS To reserve tables contact: Jason Claire Overlooked Antiques and Military Surplus 913-758-1686 406 Delaware St., Leavenworth, KS 66048 www.wwiigimilitarysurplus.com MILITARY ANTIQUES Visit our Web site for a nice selection of original Militaria from around the world CHECK US OUT AT www.stewartsmilitaryantiques.com for more original U.S. and German militaria (928) 641-4313 9 S. 9th Street #98 Clarkdale, Arizona 86324 [email protected]
76 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com A big rig tanker is on hand to take care of the fleet’s fuel transport needs. There is a lot to see in the cozy confines of the Military Veterans Museum and Education Center, from tracked vehicles to DUKWs. “Brutus” is a highly decorated Vietnam veteran gun truck
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 77 Large assortment and the best prices. Dealer inquiries invited. www.CollectRussia.com Atlantic Crossroads, Inc. P.O. Box 144, Tenafly, NJ 07670 ★ Phone: (201) 567-8717 FAX: (201) 567-6855 Please visit our website: www.CollectRussia.com E-mail: [email protected] ★ Imperial Russian and Soviet Decorations and Medals ★ Documented Award Groups ★ Historical Documents ★ Uniforms and Field Gear ★ Reference Books ★ Military Badges and Insignia ★ Autographs of Political and Military Leaders ★ Posters and Newsprint ★ German WWII Medals and Militaria WWI and WWII German Militaria Reproductions and Collectibles WWW.LANDSER.COM • 877-499-1939 Militaria Decorations | Medals | Ribbons | Field Gear | Insignia | Bayonets | Mauser
Are you getting the full experience? Visit www.militarytrader.com ÕñÞïßîåÞáðëëñîáêáóïèáððáî ÏåèåðÝîõ ïäëóïîááêÝßðéáêðïÝêàÝñßðåëêßÝèáêàÝîï ÅëéìèáðáÆáÝèáîÆåîáßðëîõ ÏåèåðÝîõØáäåßèáï âáÝðñîáïÝêàéÝåêðáêÝêßáÝàòåßá ÏåèåðÝîåÝÅëèèáßðåÞèáïáïïÝõïâîëéäëÞÞõáôìáîðï ÄÝßçåïïñáïÝììÝîáèÝêàÝßßáïïëîåáï
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 79 MOVE OUT WITH COKER TIRE’S AUTHENTIC 866-922-3886 COKERTIRE.COM SPEAK TO A TIRE EXPERT SHOP OUR FULL LINE OF MILITARY TIRES NDT, ND M CC and Knobby Tread Design • Correct Sidewall Engravings on Firestone Brands ilitaryTIRES The Evansville Military Collectors Club Show is the place to be for any military collector or enthusiast! Our shows offer an incredible variety of militaria and collectibles. From Army medals to WWII helmets and more, there’s something for every collector. Visitors can expect exclusive deals on a wide range of items. Vendors will be selling everything from rare World War II memorabilia to modern battlefield equipment. There will also be informative displays featuring uniforms, weapons and other artifacts from past and present wars. With a low admission price of $5.00, it’s sure to be a day you won’t forget! Come join other like minded collectors at one of the best military collectibles shows around at the Evansville Military Collectors Club Shows! A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A EVANSVILLE MILITARY COLLECTORS CLUB CALL 812-483-3064 OR 270-860-5544 FOR MORE INFORMATION INCLUDING HOW TO MAKE TABLE RESERVATIONS FOR THE CLUB SHOWS. ASK FOR DETAILS AS TO START AND END TIMES / SUBJECT TO CHANGE 2024 Club Gun, Military Collectible Show Dates American Legion, 711 State Street, Newburgh, IN 8 Ft. Tables - $50 each January 6, 7 February 17, 18 March 23, 24 April 13, 14 May 18, 19 October 26, 27 November 23, 24 December 21, 22
80 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com BY JOHN NORRIS I n the years immediately after the Second World War, the British Army had to adapt to meet changes which affected its operational commitment, new weapons and equipment and its overall structure. The first changes came about in 1945 with the creation of the British Army of the Rhine (BAOR) as one of the three Western occupying powers controlling post-war Germany. This period would become known as the “Cold War” as a result of Russia’s creation of the so-called “Iron Curtain”. The second major change came in 1949 with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), to which Britain was a signatory along with America and several other countries. In 1950, the Korean War erupted. It would last until 1953 — a time during which more changes would be ushered in along with the introduction of new weapons and vehicles. The United Nations had been formed in 1945 and many of the member states, including Greece and Belgium, sent military units to serve in the war against the Communist forces. To meet this commitment, the British government used many National Servicemen alongside regular troops, but it was also obliged to make adjustments to some overseas postings to concentrate on its primary role in Central Europe as part of NATO. National servicemen would also be deployed to serve in other emergency areas such as Kenya, Suez and Aden. At the time, the British Army had already been engaged against Communist- backed rebel forces in Malaya since 1948, but with the outbreak of the Korean War emphasised the urgency for modern vehicles to replace those vehicles which had served through WWII, such as the Scammel Pioneer. The Pioneer had served throughout WWII, but by the late 1940s it was obvious that its 6x4 drive capability and 85-bhp 4-cylinder gas engine would not be compatible with the changing shape of post-war military developments. To put it bluntly, the Pioneer had reached the end of its service life and the military needed a replacement. Built in 1956, this Explorer can tow just about anything, in any conditions. Britain’s workhorse ‘Heavy Breakdown Tractor’
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 81 With Scammell’s record for supplying the military with reliable heavy vehicles, it was only natural that the British Army should approach the company for a vehicle to replace the Pioneer. The design team at the company’s Hertfordshire-based production plant in Tolpits Lane, Watford, drew on lessons learned and previous experience to come up with a 6x6 design that would come to be known as the “Explorer”. Developers were confident it would meet the army’s needs for a recovery vehicle capable of handling the new, heavier tank designs entering service, such as the Centurion and Conqueror. It would go on to become one of the best vehicles to enter post-war service with the British Army and be used during the later stages of the Korean War. At first sight, the Explorer, which would later be given the military designation of FV11301, exhibited more than a passing resemblance to the Pioneer, with a “squared-off” shape and large size. Indeed, it shared several common features with its earlier counterpart, such as having the wooden-panelled rear body, central-pivot front axle traverse spring, A-frame walking beam and rear gear case. It was what lay underneath the engine hood that most mattered. At 200-hp, the engine had more than twice the power of the Pioneer and was designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -10 degrees Fahrenheit to +125 degrees Fahrenheit. The driver’s cab was spacious, with good visibility and sufficient headroom for an average-sized man, say 5 foot 10 inches, to stand upright. The Explorer may have looked similar in appearance and been influenced by the Pioneer, but there the similarity ended. The Explorer was dubbed a “Heavy Breakdown Tractor” with each vehicle being fitted with a rear-mounted crane and winch. With 450 feet of 7/8-inch steel cable, it could tackle recovery roles of most vehicles. Front and rea-mounted tow hooks allowed it to recover vehicles either forward or in reverse. The first series production series contract was for 125 vehicles, the first of which entered service in 1950. Six further contracts would be awarded to Scammell, amounting to a production run of 1,500 vehicles. From this number 726 were for service with the army and the Royal Air Force, both of which would require the services of such a powerful vehicle. The RAF is known to have designated at least nine of their Explorer vehicles for use in the role of heavy towing tractors to move the larger aircraft around airfields. Others were sold to overseas users, including the New Zealand army. The Explorer was produced in two versions, the first series being the Mk I, which was the early first contract model between 1949 and 1950. These featured minor details such as smaller headboards on the driver’s cab and other minor details like an extra tank for the air system. These vehicles had sprung drawbars front and rear for the tow hitches which were mounted on leaf springs. Later, the Mk II Explorers had NATO hitches fitted front and rear which were mounted solid to the cross members. These vehicles were used by the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, REME, regiment of the British Army which was responsible for recovering vehicles in all deployment areas, including the NATO zone of West Germany as it was known at the time. The Explorer remained in service with the British Army into the late 1980s, by which time new, heavier vehicles were entering service, such as the “Warrior”, weighing in at 25 (long) tons and “Challenger I” main battle tank weighing between 62 and 70 (long) tons depending on the level of armour protection fitted. By this time the Explorer was reaching the end of its operational service capacity and these new vehicles were beyond its capability. The Explorer was gradually phased out of service, with many of them being sold off to recovery compaWith its good ground clearance, mud and rough terrain has never been an obstacle for the Explorer.
82 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com nies, haulage businesses and some to civilian owners, who now display them at shows. They were replaced by another Scammell design, the “Commander”, which reverted to 6x4 drive as on the original wartime Pioneer design. A dedicated website for Scammell vehicle enthusiasts, www. scammellregister.co.uk, has been established where owners and enthusiasts can ask questions and seek advice. Examples of the Explorer come up for sale fairly regularly on specialist auction sites and there is a good supply of spares still available. Some owners have replaced the original Meadows engine with a comparable Cummins type, which keeps them on the road. With no power steering, it can be hard work driving an Explorer and the noise in the driver’s cab is loud, but owners do not complain and they enjoy the challenge of having an example of such a redoubtable vehicle. Saving ‘Lady Polly’ The vehicle registered as YSY250, nicknamed “Lady Polly”, was acquired by its present owner in May 2017. He has researched into its background history and even spoken to a previous owner. Built in 1951, Lady Polly is a Mk I Explorer it is known to have had its winch rebuilt in 1953 and in December 1958 it underwent a complete overhaul while still in military service. These details and other points of the vehicle’s history came to light when the owner contacted the military at Deepcut in Surrey to request the vehicle’s service card history. In September that year he received documentation which revealed the vehicle’s military registration number as being 01BD84 and was based at Ashchurch Camp in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, for some of its service life. In 2019 the vehicle began emitting noises which gave cause for concern. Further investigation showed drive to the rear axle had failed, which, in turn, had sheared the oil gear drive. Before the axle could be removed to be replaced, the sprag had to be taken out, but it was welded and bolted in place. A previous owner explained he had encountered a similar problem when he had the same vehicle. Since then, the current owner has replaced a new floor in the driver’s cab on the passenger side and replaced all the woodwork on the rear body, which he fitted in a workshop. He has also cleaned up all the metalwork behind the cab using shot-blast and resprayed it. Another refurbishment project to the “Lady Polly” Explorer included fitting a new gear box. Nobody ever said owning an Explorer was simple, and owners of Scammell vehicles are in a select group all their own. Built in 1951, making it over 70 years old, this Explorer takes mud in its stride. Scammell Explorer At a Glance Length: 20 feet and 7 inches Wheelbase: 11 feet and 6 inches Width: 8 feet and 6 inches Height: 10 feet and 5 inches Wheelbase: 11 feet 6 inches Engine: Meadows 10.35 litre 200bhp petrol Fuel capacity: 70 (imperial) gallons Range: 4mpg at 30mph Gradient: 35 degrees Side gradient: 15 degrees Turning radius: Right-hand lock: 61 feet Turning radius: Left-hand lock: 60 feet Gear box: 6-speed Gate change Axles: 3 6x6 Suspension: Front centrally pivoted transverse semi-eliptical spring Winch: 15-ton line pull Crane: 3-ton lift Weight: 12 tons unladen
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 83 • Uniforms • Field Gear • Medals and Insignia • Documents • Personal Items • Rings, Etc. • SS and SA Daggers • German Helmets • SS and Army Visor Caps • Soldbuchs and Death Cards WE BUY COLLECTIONS BIG AND SMALL WE PAY A FAIR PRICE! Specializing in WW2 German Militaria BUY - SELL - TRADE WANTED German, American, Japanese, British, Etc.
84 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Adjustments have to be made to accommodate the new engines and their couplings. The driver has to climb up to reach his cab, which is set high and is spacious. The famous “gate” gear changing layout. The trucks featured a simple, no-frills control panel. The driver’s eye viewshowing the good field of vision on the road ahead.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 85 NEED MARKINGS FOR YOUR VEHICLE?! We consistently produce award winning marking sets for Military Vehicles RICK LARSEN STENCILS Tel: 413-269-0058 (8AM – 3PM EST Mon. to Wed.) -- Fax: 413-269-0059 (24/7) Thursday & Friday contact via EMAIL ONLY E-mail: [email protected] -- Snail Mail to: PO Box 361, Otis, MA 01253 fiflflffiffl ff ffiffiff fflfffffiff ffi ffl!fflffffl ffl We now have a completely redesigned website and shopping cart to make internet shopping easier! You can now order vehicle sets, stars, decals, shipping stencils and custom stencils all in one stop with the ability to figure domestic & international shipping charges. Same familiar web address: https://www.militarystencils.com ffl ffffflffl ffffi!fflfffi ffffflffl ffffi!fflfffi WE’RE BACK! IT’S BEEN A TOUGH 2 YEARS WITH THE PASSING OF MY WIFE AND ME HAVING A MASSIVE STROKE, BUT WE’RE BACK, ALL THOUGH MOVING SLOWER C&C EQUIPMENT, LLC Complete line of MD Juan Jeep bodies in stock 1941-1986 Several 2.5 and 5 ton stock and custom trucks and parts in stock Large inventory of MD Juan Jeep Parts in stock for both military and civilian models M35 2.5 ton lockout hubs now in stock. Shipped to the lower 48 states $525.00 Owner: Clinton Chitwood 4111 East State Rd. 45, Nashville, IN 47448 812-336-2894 812-336-2895 fax I accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover E-mail: [email protected] www.ccsurplus.com MILITARY VEHICLE RESTORATIONS, SALES & SERVICE MIL SPEC VEHICLE RESTORATIONS 5HVWRUDWLRQ VSHFLDOLVWV IRU DOO W\SHV DQG \HDUV RI PLOLWDU\ YHKLFOHV )URP EDVLF PDLQWHQDQFH WR JURXQG XS UHVWRUDWLRQV VRIW VNLQ WR DUPRU 0LO 6SHF FDQ PDNH \RXU 09 QHZ DJDLQ 2YHU \HDUV RI PLOLWDU\ YHKLFOH H[SHULHQFH &RQWDFW %RE 5XELQR IRU TXRWHV RQ \RXU 09 ZRUNffl ffifl ffiffi +DUGZLFN 6WUHHW %HOYLGHUH 1- fl
86 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Built in 1951, “Lady Polly” is a Mk I Explorer and at over 70 years old is still going strong. She has had lots of work done on her. “Lady Polly” has needed some TLC to keep her on the road, but she still has many years and many miles ahead of her. The crane boom, winch and “A” frame were all designed for the widest possible range of vehicle recovery roles.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 87 The Explorer Mk II with both civilian and military registration can be traced on the Scammell Owner’s Register. This Mk II is demonstrating the rise and fall of the suspension. This Mk I was built in 1949 and makes it one of the oldest and earliest types of Explorer still in operation. Even from the rear this venerable Explorer still looks good for its age.
88 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com This 1954 Explorer Mk II, complete with REME badge on the front, is giving a helping hand to another Explorer at a show. This truck is in full REME colours and showing air hose attachments and front-mounted tow hook. The suspension allowed the Explorer to reach awkward places to recover vehicles. The feature above the radiator was called a “coffee pot” by the troops. Although the truck was unarmed, provision was made to allow a light machine gun to be used for selfdefense from the opening in the cab roof.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 89 A young John Norris as a defense journalist standing by a Scammell Mk II Explorer during coverage of the NATO Exercise “Lionheart” in 1984. Now in another role, this Mk II Explorer is still working welll as a recovery vehicle after many years of service with the Army.
90 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Chicago Toy Soldier Show is a scaled-down wonderland BY PETER SUCIU F or perhaps as long as there have been collectors of militaria, and possibly even longer, there have been collectors of toy soldiers. The two hobbies certainly overlap, and these miniatures remain a way for those with an interest in military history to appreciate the past. Though today video games are far more popular with kids today than toy soldiers, the organizers of the Chicago Toy Soldier Show don’t see that as a problem. In fact, they told Military Trader & Vehicles that video games could best be seen as a gateway to collecting toy soldiers, and we know that could be the first step to militaria. “Video games are really just a virtual form of toy soldiers,” lifelong toy soldier collector and former Chicago Toy Soldier Show organizer Roger Garfield added. “We’ve just changed the way we play with the toy soldiers.” Though the show, which was held at the end of September at the Schaumburg Marriot Hotel just a stone’s throw from O’Hare International Airport, had far more adults (big kids) than actual children in attendance, Matt Murphy, the show’s organizer and owner of the Massachusetts’ based Hobby Bunker, said there are more young people collecting toy soldiers. “What is amazing is that thanks to those video games kids today know the weapons, the vehicles and even the equipment from those games. Toy soldiers give them a way to then experience it beyond the screen,” Murphy said. That point was reinforced by Ericka Osen, who in 2016 with her husband Ken purchased W. Britain, arguably the most famous toy soldier company in the world. The celebrated company, which was originally founded in 1893, is clearly in good hands as Ken Osen now oversees all of the research, master sculpting, master painting and master molding — while relying on an elite group of contractors. The market for vintage toy soldiers from Europe remains especially strong – but as a history nitpicker, I do need to ask why Romans are riding in Hannibal’s elephants!
November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 91 TOP GUN MILITARY & AUCTION We offer genuine U.S.G.I. and foreign surplus in new and used condition. Military collectibles from all wars and all countries. We have a large quantity of military surplus, survival and tactical gear, and outdoor supplies – ranging from knives and gas masks, to cold weather clothing and backpacks. Always looking for quality consignments of military and firearms. We buy, sell and trade. Happy to serve you at two locations: 6421 Carlisle Rd Dover PA 17315 717-467-8530 www.topgunauctionhouse.com www.topgunauctionshouse. hibid.com 11 East main St. Palmyra PA 17078 717-832-1000 www.topgunmilitary.com 1. WWII JAPANESE MILITARY SAKE CUPS-HAVE A LARGE SELECTION .......................................................................................... $20 EACH 2. WWII JAPANESE MILITARY SAKE BOTTLES-HAVE SEVERAL... $50 EACH 3. WWI GERMAN MODEL 1917 EGG GRENADE W/ PLUG & FUZE (INERT) ..................................................................................................$400 4. WWII US NAVY MARK 2 GUN COORDINATOR “TALKER” HELMET-FIRESTONE MFG.-W/ CHINSTRAP ......................................................$400 5. POLISH MILITARY WZ 93 “KEVLAR” HELMET ................................$200 6. WWI GERMAN MAXIM MACHINE GUN BELT PIECE........................$100 7. ITALIAN VZ-50 ANTIPERSONNEL LAND MINES (INERT) .......$200 EACH 8. WWII JAPANESE ARMY MEDIC’S BAG ..........................................$200 9. WWII JAPANESE ARMY WINTER TUNIC.........................................$150 10. WWII JAPANESE ARMY OFFICER TUNIC W/ CAPTAIN INSIGNIA....$200 11. WWII JAPANESE ARMY TROPICAL TUNIC W/ CORPORAL POCKET RANK .........................................................................................$150 12. WWII GERMAN “WERK UND MENSCH” HERMANN GOERING BOOK.........................................................................................$150 13. INDIAN WARS HAGNER NO. 1 CARTRIDGE BOX .........................$150 14. CIVIL WAR-EARLY INDIAN WARS CARBINE CARTRIDGE BOX .......$150 15. INDIAN WARS US M1872 KEPI HAT-NAMED TO 6TH CAVALRY TROOPER...................................................................................$300 16. WWII CANADIAN TANKER HELMET ............................................$300 17. EGYPTIAN HAKIM BAYONET ......................................................$150 18. WWII BELGIAN ARMY M1929 GAS MASK W/ BAG ........................$150 19. WWII JAPANESE ARMY OFFICER CANTEEN ...............................$150 20. WWI GERMAN MODEL 1917 EGG GRENADE W/ PLUG & FUZE (INERT) ......................................................................................$400 21. CURRENT ISSUE RUSSIAN ARMY SNIPER’S SMOCK-CAPTURED IN UKRAINE ....................................................................................$300 22. WWII GERMAN 98K MAUSER BAYONET-MATCHING NUMBERS-RARE “bym” CODE ...............................................................................$400 23. WWII JAPANESE ARMY ENLISTED FIELD CAPS-HAVE A FEW .........................................................................................$250 EACH 24. WWII JAPANESE ARMY OFFICER FIELD CAP ...............................$300 25. WWII JAPANESE ARMY MAP CASE .............................................$125 JOSHUA ALBERRY 31531 BONI RD., COPENHAGEN, NY 13626 [email protected] • 315-523-5711 PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE SHIPPING. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL FOR PHOTOS AND MORE DETAILS. I ACCEPT CHECKS, MONEY ORDERS, PAYPAL, CASH APP, AND VENMO! NOW ALSO ACCEPTING CREDIT CARDS OVER THE PHONE! IALSOBUYAWIDEVARIETYOFMILITARIA-LETMEKNOWWHATYOUHAVEFORSALE!
92 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Once they were playthings – now they’re high-value collectibles Though many of these soldiers are meant more for the shelf than the floor, Ericka Osen explains noted once again video games are helping inspire another generation of collector. “We are finding that there are more kids collecting than we saw just 10 years ago,” she added. “The kids today are what we would describe as a much more educated customer!” While some kids – and plenty of adults – may still prefer the game controller, strolling the aisles of the Chicago Toy Soldier Show was like taking a trip back in time, when “battles” were fought on the floor of the living room rather than on a screen. It was easy to see how this show has become akin to the Show Of Shows or MVPA Convention – albeit on a bit of a smaller scale. The passion from the collectors is there, and from the moment the show opened, the hunt was on for deals and a chance to find that elusive item. And for those who may not be able to afford a Flak 88mm gun or tank, there are always the scale options! Cool doesn’t begin to describe some of the vintage toy soldiers in Chicago – like this German machine gun car that was produced after the First World War. These miniature helmets are around 1/10 scale and were sold as collectibles after the First World War.
www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 93 Former toy soldier designer Doug Dearth has turned his talents to paintings, which he said have become popular with collectors who like his style – described as “whimsically gruesome!” There were truly some fascinating toy soldiers and “accessories” at the show this year, including this Boer War armored train. Even in the era of video games, companies like King and Country are producing toy soldiers and vehicles that can make a middle-aged guy feel like a little kid again.
94 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com Readers of a “certain age” may remember unwrapping one of these playsets on Christmas morning! Where do the wounded toy soldiers go? Apparently to a field hospital! Another field hospital; this set was apparently produced during the First World War in France.
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Reader Wheels Gil Snyder, of Green Bay, Wis., has put 14,000 miles on his 1945 Willys MB (with WWII cold weather top) since 2003. “[It] was originally restored by Brent Mullins in College Station, Texas in 2003,” he says. “I’ve done quite a bit with it since. It’s been driven to the National Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio in 2005, on the MVPA 2009 Transcontinental Convoy and on the 2015 MVPA Bankhead convoy. I installed an overdrive for future road trips. It adds versatility for convoy and highway driving. The Jeep has a BC1306 radio system installed with a PE-237 power supply. The Jeep was entered in the 2023 MVPA Convention in Des Moines, Iowa. It was awarded a Motor Pool Gold Award with a 95.8% score.” 96 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com
Phil Mattingly says his M1161 “Growler” was purchased a few years ago when the Marines ended the program and enlisted Ritchie bros. to auction them off. “Other then servicing the vehicle and reinstalling the rear steer unit (of which all where removed), we did very little to this one. I should mention we built the rear ring mount structure from photos and added the M2HB,” he says. “It’s quite a hit in parades. Though not vintage, I expect they will become quite sought after as there are only a few hundred.” www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 97 Reader Randall Robe is hoping our readers can help him get a handle on this felt-on-wool patch. If you have any guesses, e-mail [email protected].
98 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com TECH TIPS by Steve Turchet Painting A Diamond Q: I just made a good deal on a WWII Willys Jeep. It is very original. The guy I bought it from said it is an early model because it has “WILLYS” stamped on the rear of the body and it is very rare because it also has Willys stamped on the front of the windshield under the glass. Does this make my Jeep more valuable? —Dustin Richardson A: Seems like you have what is often called a script jeep. These were indeed early production models of both the Willys MB and the Ford GPW, and had Willys or Ford embossed on the left rear end of the body. Like the early Chevrolet G-506 trucks, which had Chevrolet embossed on their side hood panels, this free advertising was discontinued by government order. In regard to your jeep, there’s an old saying: Don’t try to paint a diamond. In legal terms this often translates as: Don’t try to make good case better than it already is. I can’t say whether your jeep’s former owner was deliberately misleading you or was simply misinformed; and while I have learned never to say never when it comes to military vehicles, to the best of my knowledge no WWII Willys jeeps, script or otherwise, ever had Willys embossed on their windshield frames. I suspect that your jeep’s original windshield assembly was replaced with one from a CJ2A, some of which were embossed with Willys below the glass. While your jeep is special because it’s a script jeep, the value of script jeeps over plain models usually depends upon how much a potential buyer is willing to pay for one. Still, finding a script jeep in good condition for a reasonable price is nothing to be sad about, even if the windshield is probably not correct. Thawing A Frozen Engine One of the best and simplest ways I’ve found to break loose a seized or “frozen” engine is to fill the cylinders with ordinary brake fluid…not silicone. Let it stand a few days, and the engine will almost always free up. I’ve found that brake fluid usually works better and faster than Liquid Wrench, diesel fuel, kerosene or any other methods I’ve heard of or tried, including on engines with cast-iron pistons. Never hammer on the tops of the pistons to try to loosen them. Instead, remove the flywheel cover and use a pry bar on the flywheel teeth. Try to turn the flywheel in both directions. You’ll probably find that it will begin to move slightly. Then keep rocking it back and forth, and it will go a bit farther each time until the engine is finally free. Turn it over several times by hand to be sure there’s binding before using the starter. Drain and change the oil before trying to start the engine to get the brake fluid out. Oil Your Auto Oiling a vehicle seems to be a mostly forgotten practice these days, but you might be surprised how much longer things like clevis pins, door and hood latches, clutch and brake linkages, hinges, yokes, window crank mechanisms, glove box buttons, and choke, throttle and fording valve cables will last, and how smoothly they operate, if you get into the habit of putting a few drops of light oil on them every month or so. An occasional drop on the stems of push/ pull switches will make them work smoother, too. Don’t forget ignition keys, window latches, seat adjusters, wing-nuts, thumbscrews, carburetor linkages and door locks. Plug A Pinhole Apinhole leak in a metal gas tank caused by a rock or a rust-out can often be temporarily stopped in the field by rubbing it with a bar of soap. Larger holes can be plugged with whittled wooden plugs, and the gas in the tank will make the plugs swell up tighter. But, again, these are only temporary repairs. 6-Volt to 12-Volt No Problem Q: I am considering a 6-volt to 12-volt conversion on my M-606 jeep. Should I be aware of any pitfalls? — C. Talbot A: Converting most 6-volt vehicles to a 12-volt system isn’t usually very complicated or expensive. 6-volt wiring and battery cables are heavier than on most 12-volt vehicles, so you don’t have to worry about that; and 12-volt generators, voltage regulators and ignition coils are available for many vintage applications. You don’t have change your distributor or spark plugs. Most 6-volt starters will last longer in a system converted to 12-volts, but avoid long periods of cranking. Mechanical gauges obviously aren’t affected, and many 6-volt fuel gauges will operate on 12-volts, although step-down resistors are available. You can also install a resistor for a heater’s 6-volt blower motor. This usually leaves only the headlamps and light bulbs to be switched from 6 to 12-volt types. What Water? While you should always use distilled water whenever possible to top off a wet cell battery, the use of ordinary tap water won’t significantly shorten the battery’s life, and any water is better than letting the cells get low. Fitting A Fan Belt Aproperly fitted fan belt should be flush with the top of the pulleys, or at least no more than 1/16 of an inch above them. If a belt sits too low in the pulleys, it rides on the bottom and there’s no wedging to keep it from slipping. The result can be engine overheating, reduced generator or alternator output and rapid belt wear. On the other hand, if the belt sits too high in the pulleys, it can become unstable and twist or even jump off.
An Original Q: I have a 1942 Ford GPW. I have kept its original Army appearance, but since it is my daily driver, I finally decided to install locking hubs on the front axle. The directions say to take off the nuts on the ends of the axle and saw off the threaded part. I don’t want to do this because I want to keep the jeep as original as I can. Are there enough advantages to locking hubs to make up for taking this drastic step? — D. Perry A: For a daily driver — I assume you mean mainly on pavement — there are a lot of advantages to having locking hubs, such as no useless wear on the front axle and drive train, slightly better fuel mileage, and less chance of a front-end shimmy. But you could always buy an extra set of axle shaft outboard ends so you could restore your jeep to its original configuration anytime. Old School Q: My grandfather, who served in the Army in Europe during WWII, has always had a habit of revving the engine a little before shutting it off. He has done this on every vehicle he has ever owned. He saysthat doing this fills up the carburetorso the engine willstart better. Isthere any truth in this?I am the proud owner of a “brand new”1944 Willys MB. —Josh Madison A: When telephones first came out, many people blew into them to “clear the line” before speaking. This habit may have evolved from speaking-tubes on ships, which provided communication between the engine room and the wheelhouse before electric intercoms. Blowing into a speaking-tube sounded a whistle at the other end. Likewise, the habit of revving a vehicle’s engine a bit before shutting it off evolved from the days when most vehicle carburetors didn’t have accelerator pumps. Revving the engine a little would usually fill up the float bowl, because the fuel pump would pump faster, which often make the engine start more quickly. Similarly, after accelerator pumps were added to most vehicle carburetors, pumping the gas pedal once or twice just before cranking the starter often made the engine start faster because it squirted gas down the carburetor throat... though this could also flood the engine, especially if it was hot. Habits once formed are often hard to break; and though either revving the engine just before shutdown or pumping the gas pedal just before starting won’t do anything on vehicles equipped with diesel engines or fuel-injection, it may indeed help your “new” jeep (or most other vintage military vehicles) start a little faster. CARC = Croak? Q: My question concerns Chemical Agent Resistant Coatings (CARC), which I understand have been used on some U.S. military vehicles for several decades. I am considering the purchase of an M151A2 MUTT for restoration, which will necessitate removal of many layers of old paint. Is there a way to find out if CARC paint was used on this vehicle? If so, what is the safest way to deal with it? —Mark Pendelton A: You are correct that CARC paint has been used on some U.S. military vehicles since the early 1970s. Exposure to vapors, mist, dust or fumes from CARC may cause various health problems, such as irritation to the respiratory tract, edema, dermatitis, dizziness, skin rash, itching, swelling of extremities, and/or eye irritation. In extreme cases exposure can damage the nervous system, kidneys or liver. CARC paint may be fatal if swallowed. The primary ingredients causing these hazards are trivalent chrome, lead, and cobalt-zinc hexamethylene diisocyanate. The correct type of respirator, clothing, eye protection, and gloves should be used if sanding vehicles that were painted with CARC. The same warnings apply when torchcutting or welding body parts of CARC painted vehicles. One method of determining if a vehicle has CARC paint is to soak a clean cotton cloth with acetone, rub a painted area for about 10 seconds, let set for about a minute, then repeat the process once again. If the paint comes off, it is probably not CARC. Protect Your Radiator Apiece of window screen or hardware cloth attached in front of your radiator will protect it from bugs and small stones, and is doubly good to have when driving on unpaved roads where passing and oncoming vehicles throw gravel and rocks, especially since many vintage military vehicles, such as jeeps, M37s and deuces. don’t have screens to protect their radiators from flying objects. Hardware cloth can also be used to protect your windshield and headlights in such situations. Staying Straight Placing gaskets tail light, parking light, or side marker light housings and keeping them straight can be frustrating. A gasket has a tendency to wander as you tighten the lens. To eliminate the gasket’s wandering, rub some paper glue stick on one surface. This allows you to align the gasket on the housing. If you don’t like placing the glue directly to the gasket, it can be brushed on the housing with a small, course brush. www.militarytrader.com November 2023 / Military Trader & Vehicles 99 Send your favorite Tech Tip or question to Steve Turchet, c/o Military Trader & Vehicles Magazine, Active Interest Media - 3240 Olympia Ave, Stevens Point, WI 54481, or e-mail c/o [email protected] ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL MILITARY & ANTIQUE GUN COLLECTORS SHOW ********************* Carolina Trader Promotions P.O. Box 769 Monroe, N.C. 28111-0769 704-282-1339 email: [email protected] November 8 & 9, 2023 130 Tables DAILY ADMISSION $7.00 AGES 7-12 $1.00 2 day pass (Fri & Sat) $10.00 MARIETTA, GA IAMAW Local 709 Union Hall, 1032 S. Marietta Parkway Take I-75 exit 263W, The Union Hall is about 2 miles on the left. CIVIL WAR, WWI, WWII, etc. ANTIQUE ARMS U.S. AND FOREIGN MILITARY ARMS AND MEMORABILIA EXHIBITED, BOUGHT, SOLD AND TRADED!! WEDNESDAY 12 NOON – 5PM THURSDAY 9am – 4pm
100 Military Trader & Vehicles / November 2023 www.militarytrader.com CALENDAR Confirm all information with show promoter before traveling. The time, dates, and/or location may have changed! MILITARY COLLECTOR SHOWS Oct 21 NJ, Union. Meadowlands Antique MilitariaShow. 1050JeanetteAve. www.meadowlandmilitaria.com Oct 21 NY, Patterson. The DuffleBag MilitariaShow.PattersonRecCenter - 65Front Street.9am-3pm.845-878-7106, www.thedufflebag.com Oct 21 KS, Overland Park.KansasCity MilitaryCollector’sClubBUY-SELLTRADE show.2023AmericanLegionPost #370- 7500 W. 75thSt.9:00- 3:00$5.00admission, [email protected] Oct 21TX,Schertz. AlamoCity MilitariaExpo.KnightsofColumbus Hall - 509SchertzPkwy.210-843-6012,512-731-7093, www.acmemilexpo.com Oct 22 OH, North Canton. The MAPS Air Museum 17thbi-annual show.2260 InternationalParkway.9am-4pm. www.mapsairmuseum.org Nov1IN, Newburgh. Evansville MilitaryCollectorsClub1st Wednesday Swap&Sale. AmericanLegion- 711 StateStreet.812-483-3064or270- 827-8394 Nov 5-6 KS, Wichita. Wichita MilitaryGuns&Collectables Show.Cessna ActivityCenter -2744 S.George WashingtonBlvd. Sat.9am-5pm, Sun. 9am-3pm. Dealer infoShawn316-210-3255 Nov10-11 GA, Marietta. AtlantaAntiqueGun&AntiqueGunand International Military Show. IAMAW Local 709 Union- 1032S. Marietta Parkway. Fri. 12-5pm, Sat.9am-4pm. 704-282-1339, www.thecarolinatrader.com Nov 10-11 PA, Gettysburg. Militaria & Historic Arms Show. Fri. 2-6pm, Sat. 9am-3pm. J. Ryan Smith 717-677-2383, [email protected] Nov11 AZ, Phoenix.Phoenix MilitariaandAntiqueGunShow.Phoenix ShrineAuditorium -552 N. 40thSt. Saturday9am-3pm,Cactus Productions, Tony602-380-1424, [email protected] Nov11-12, OK,Tulsa. Wanenmacher’s TulsaArms Show. ExpoSquare(Tulsa Fairgrounds),4145E.21st St.918-492-0401; [email protected]; www.tulsaarmsshow.com Nov12 IL, New Lenox. Midwest Militaria Military History&Collectibles Show. V.F.W.Post9545-323 Old HickoryRoad.9am-1pm.Paul815-641- 6411,Bob708-598-4156 Nov16-18 SC,Ladston.Charleston MilitariaExpo. ExchangePark -9850 Hwy. 78,843-305-6191 (AuctionFriday Night) www.charlestonmilitariaexpo.com Nov19 IL, Rockford. Military/TrainShow.Cliffbreakers - 700 WestRiverside Blvd. 100+tablesdealer setup6am. JeffBries815-218-0228 Nov 24-25 TN, Nashville /Franklin. TMCA Military Show.Tennessee MilitaryCollectors Association. Marriott Hotel 700Cool SpringsBlvd, Franklin, TN. Fridaynoon-5pm, Saturday8-3.325+tables,615-661-9379, www.tmcaonline.org. MILITARY VEHICLE SHOWS Oct15-20 MO. A6-day Wagon-WheelRally/Convoybaseddaily from Montauk StatePark. Apply [email protected] Oct 20-21- KY,Shepherdsville.2ndAnnualKilroy Victory Military Vehicles Show &Swap Meet.BullittCounty Fairgrounds -964ClermontRoad.9am6pm. Mario Maipid502-648-4727, [email protected] Nov10-12 FL,Zephyrhills. Zephyrhills Museum of Military History Veterans Day Weekend. Zephyrhills Museum of Military History,5200AirportRoad. info: www.zmmh.org Nov19 IL, Rockford.GreaterRockford Military/TrainShow. LovesPark Banquet Hall - 1601 West LaneRd.dealer setup6-8am show 7am early bird8-2pm. JeffBries815-218-0228or815-543-6631 For complete calendar, visit www.Militarytrader.com STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENTAND CIRCULATION (requiredbyActofAugust 12, 1970:Section3685, Title39, UnitedStatesCode). 1. Military Trader.2. (ISSN: 1540-0581).3.Filing date:45200.4. Issuefrequency: Monthly.5. Numberof issuespublishedannually: 12.6. The annual subscriptionpriceis$34.98. 7.Complete mailingaddressofknownofficeofpublication: ActiveInterest Media Holdco, Inc.,2143GrandAve Des Moines, IA50321.Contactperson:Paige Nordmeyer. 8.Complete mailingaddressofheadquartersorgeneralbusinessofficeofpublisher: ActiveInterest Media Holdco, Inc.,2143GrandAve Des Moines, IA50321.9.Fullnamesandcomplete mailingaddressesofpublisher,editor,and managingeditor.Publisher,CorinneZielke,2143Grand Ave Des Moines, IA50321;Editor,BrianEarnest,2143GrandAve Des Moines, IA50321; Managing Editor, N/A. 10. Owner:ActiveInterest Media Holdco, Inc.;Andrew W.Clurman,CEO,2143GrandAve Des Moines, IA50321. 11.Knownbondholders, mortgagesandother securityholdersowningor holding1percentof moreof totalamountofbonds, mortgagesorother securities: None. 12. Tax status: Has NotChanged DuringPreceding12 Months. 13.Publisher title: Military Trader. 14. Issue datefor circulationdatabelow:September2023. 15. Theextentandnatureof circulation:A. Total numberof copiesprinted(Netpress run).Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding 12 months:6185.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:8288. B.Paidcirculation. 1. Mailedoutside-countypaidsubscriptions.Averagenumberof copieseach issueduringpreceding12 months:5978.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate: 7679.2. Mailedin-countypaidsubscriptions.Averagenumberof copieseachissue duringpreceding12 months:0.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofiling date:0.3.Sales throughdealersandcarriers, street vendorsandcounter sales.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:0.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublished nearest tofilingdate:0.4.Paiddistributionthroughother classes mailedthroughthe USPS.Average numberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:24.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissue publishednearest tofilingdate:43.C. Totalpaiddistribution.Averagenumberof copieseachissue duringpreceding12 months:6002.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest to filingdate: 7722. D.Freeornominal ratedistribution(by mailandoutside mail). 1.Freeornominal outside-county.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:20.Actualnumber of copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:39.2.Freeornominal ratein-county copies.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:0.Actualnumberof copies of singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:0.3.Freeornominal ratecopies mailedatother Classes throughthe USPS.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:270. Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:500.4.Freeornominal rate distributionoutsidethe mail.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:0. Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:0.E. Total freeornominal ratedistribution.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:290.Actual numberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:539.F. Total freedistribution(sum of 15cand15e).Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:6292.Actual numberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:8261.G.Copiesnot Distributed. Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:0.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate:0. H. Total (sum of 15fand15g).Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:6292.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublished nearest tofilingdate:8261. I.Percentpaid.Averagepercentof copiespaidforpreceding12 months: 95.4%.Actualpercentof copiespaidforpreceding12 months:93.5%. 16.ElectronicCopyCirculation:A.PaidElectronicCopies.Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months: 71. Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate: 71.B. TotalPaidPrintCopies (Line15c)+PaidElectronicCopies (Line16a).Averagenumberof copieseachissueduringpreceding 12 months:6073.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest tofilingdate: 7793.C. TotalPrint Distribution(Line15f)+PaidElectronicCopies (Line16a).Averagenumberof copieseach issueduringpreceding12 months:6363.Actualnumberof copiesof singleissuepublishednearest to filingdate:8332. D.PercentPaid(BothPrint&ElectronicCopies) (16bdividedby 16c x 100).Average numberof copieseachissueduringpreceding12 months:95.5%.Actualnumberof copiesof single issuepublishednearest tofilingdate:93.5%. I certify that50% ofalldistributedcopies (electronic andprint)arepaidabovenominalprice:Yes.Report circulationonPSForm 3526-X worksheet. 17. Publicationof statementofownership willbeprintedinthe November2023issueof thepublication. 18.Signatureandtitleofeditor,publisher,business manager,orowner:Paige Nordmeyer,Circulation Director. I certify thatall informationfurnishedonthis form is trueandcomplete. Iunderstand thatanyone whofurnishes falseor misleadinginformationonthis form or whoomits materialor informationrequestedontheform maybesubject tocriminal sanctionandcivilactions.