New Project: The Deuce
I have a new project. I introduce to you my future mobile “command center”. I plan to rework the shop area of the truck to contain a modern computer network, perfect for use on a job site and LAN parties alike.
This beast of a truck is a military M185A3, similar to a M109A3. This type of truck was used to repair electronic equipment (such as RADAR systems) in the field. It weighs 17,300 lbs empty (17,800 on the last scale I took it over). Powered by a 130 HP multifuel Diesel engine, this truck will go just about anywhere using almost any flammable liquid. It has a top speed of 55 MPH and a cruising speed of 49 MPH. The fuel economy is, at 9MPG, surprisingly good for a vehicle of this size. It has a 50 gallon fuel tank, which gives it a range of between 400 and 500 miles. It also costs over $130 to fill up.
More after the jump.
Getting my hands on this truck was a bit of a pain. It took over a month for the needed paperwork to go through, and there is still more to go. I am currently waiting on a SF-97 form so that I can get a title (instead of just an invoice saying that I bought a paid for it). After I get the truck titled I will be able to get it inspected and the be able to drive it on the road legally. I had to use a trip permit in order to get it home from the military base it was located at (at least the permit only cost $5).
I have ordered a muffler to put on the truck since it is far too loud as it is. My ears were ringing until the day after I brought it home. I will also be installing lighted license plate holders in order to comply with VA law. There is a lot of work to be done on this truck, but so far it’s been a blast. 
I’ll be making a new tab at the top of this site so that you can keep tabs on my progress as time goes on.