Military Vehicles, March 1997,: Re: 715's....Good or bad idea?
Re: 715's....Good or bad idea?
ETIMOTHY1@aol.com
Thu, 20 Mar 1997 01:00:19 -0500 (EST)
Stu;
The M715 is a good truck, with a really unique look to it. There were only
30,500 715's built over 3 years, so they are much rarer than M37's,. and,
unfortunately, parts are more expensive and much scarcer. However, they are
not so in demand that modifying them destroys their value. The stock engine
is prone to top end failure, is tempermental and a pain to work on (in my
opinion). The springs are very stiff and the ride can be pretty rough, and
the body is prone to stress cracks, particularly in the center of the hood
and on the doors.
However, most of these problems are not difficult to remedy. A small blcok
Chevy engine will slip into a 715 and, with an adapter plate, mate right up
to the T98A transmission. There are motor mount kits available so you dont
have to do any cutting or welding to your truck. Hard top kits are available,
and power steering and brake conversions are relatively straightforeward. I
really like the 715 and I think you will too.
Erik Timothy
Federal Way, WA