Hercules Diesel M715 Graves Mountain first outing

[D Pizzoferrato]

For those that venture into Facebook, the following link will take you to a few pics and videos of my latest project. https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php? ... 8922301105

I purchased the truck in Virginia in November 2021 with a hideous fire dept hard top cab and so-so sheet metal.

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The running chassis with Hercules conversion is presumably 1 of the 20 done in 1988 under DLA contract #DAAE07-88-C-0013. From discussions with prior owners, knowledgeable people and research of limited documentation, our conclusion is that this contract was executed by SECO and Hercules Engine as a proof of concept and as a means to develop a basic diesel conversion for foreign military sales.

The cab was added as a replacement by the guy I bought it from. I was not happy with the cab, so began lookin for better sheetmetal. I found a truck in northern MN that had been garaged 30 years ago for a clutch replacement that was never completed.

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The bed wasn't bad on the Virginia truck, but had several issues, that would still be defects even after a lot of work. I'm not sure if a trip to the NE of Dallas TX area for a really nice sandblasted $500 bed was a rational move with the Brandon price of fuel, but it is what it is.

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The final version of the truck is the VA running chassis, the MN Cab, doors, hood and front clip, the TX bed and the MN tailgate.

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I have added power steering, upgraded to a dual master cylinder and upgraded to composite lights. I kind of like the mixed patina. What say you?

[m3a1]

I like the mix. Tells the tale of a truck with real 'life experience'.

[rickf]

Now I really miss not making it down there this year! I need ideas for my M37. plus I would have gotten to harass Dave in person. One of the main things I miss at Aberdeen!!

[D Pizzoferrato]

2 years in a row of missed harassment oportunities. Maybe "Remote Harassment" is the new trend.

[rickf]

Well, I was all ready this year but the missus came down with Covid so I did not want to take a chance on bringing that down with me. Turns out I never got it but better safe than sorry. I only would have been able to stay one day and drive down in the car so not much of a fun time other than visiting, and harassing you.

[m3a1]

Maybe "Remote Harassment" is the new trend.

It's a brave new world, fellas.

[D Pizzoferrato]

Rick could even outsource the remote harrassment. Think of the free time he'd have to sort his shed if he hired someone else to do his harassment. I bet one of those Pakistani IT Tech Support people, or the car warranty people could free up some time. Or this guy; I heard he's out of work

[rickf]

Ah yes, PC as normal. Never change Dave, never change!