No, it’s not a rerun of Sanford & Son . . .

. . . though a guy named Fred is involved with it. It’s the latest addition to the Source Interlink Project Museum----a 1966 Dodge M-37 army truck. This sparkling example, acquired by its owner for a bargain price, would have been one of the latter units ever made, as Dodge ceased production of the M-series in 1968, some 110,000 vehicles having been built over its 17-year production run. The mighty M-series, which was birthed by the onset of the Korean War, was originally based off the ¾-ton WW II WC troop-transport/ambulance platform, and the rigs share many common components. Let’s take a closer look at this rotting pile vintage collectible, and see what its lucky owner acquired for barely more than the price of a subscription to 8-Lug Diesel Truck.

There’s plenty of room for upgrades under the hood, and a plethora of engine options as well. Originally, a 230ci flathead I-6 and NP 420 four-speed would’ve resided here, charged by 24-volt electrics, and fed by a Carter single-barrel downdraft and 24-gallon fuel tank in back. We suggested a 5.7L Hemi and 545RE swap for ease of installation; the rig’s owner says he’s planning to drop in a Chevy big-block instead.

The M-37’s interior likewise provides a blank canvas for its new owner. Opportunities for upgrades include all shifters and links, throttle linkage, gauges, instruments, seats---the list is endless. The clutch pedal sticks, too, which doesn’t much matter since there’s no clutch anymore.

Out back, the full-floater Dodge hypoid rear axle looks to be intact since it leaks like a sieve. The NP 200 transfer case is still there, too (and skidplated, no less), and as soon as the owner hooks up a driveshaft or two, it’ll once again be able to turn the 5.83:1 cogs housed inside that great pumpkin.

A boy and his dog truck: Our proud owner poses alongside his latest acquisition. At least the eight-ply nondirectional 9.00-16 tires appear to hold air, though the 7,500-pound Braden PTO winch up front likely went away when the tranny did too.