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The M54 series of 6x6 trucks was developed in the immediate post WWII period
to replace vehicles in the 4, 5, 6, and 7 1/2 T class. First production
models were completed by Diamond T and International Harvester in 1950.
Later models were built by Kaiser Jeep (now AM General) and Mack. The first
models were fitted with a 6 cylinder gas engine, which was replaced with a 6
cylinder diesel engine in 1962, followed by the multifuel engine in 1963.
The multifuel engine was a supercharged version of the LD465 that is used in
the 2 1/2 T truck. It was not successful as it became overheated. The AM
General Corporation replaced this with a commercial engine and the series
became known as the M809 series.
The M809 series of 6x6 5 t cargo trucks is similar to the older M54 series,
fitted with a diesel engine in place of the multifuel engine by AM General
under a product engineering development and test program. Production started
in 1970, and by 1980, 38,000 of the vehicles was completed.
Both series featured power assisted steering, and a five speed forward and
one speed reverse manual transmission, with a two speed transfer case.
The 809 series was rated for a little more cargo weight due to the improved
horsepower of the engine.
When the M809 series was type classified, it was intended that a product
improvement program would be carried out in the areas of transmission,
transfer case, and brakes. Extensive testing of the M809 series was
conducted in 1970, and it was shown that product improvements in these areas
would be most beneficial. The program was shelved when the Army withdrew
from Vietnam, but was reinstituted in 1975.
In October of 1979, the M939 series was type classified for use. Production
started in 1982.
Doc
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