On September 16, 2009, Legionnaire Bill Polakos passed away.

We mourn his loss. 

DODGE M 37 HISTORY

Both the Army and Chrysler enjoyed the success of the WWII-era G-502-3/4 ton WC-52 series truck. It was only natural for the Army to turn to Dodge for an updated design in the late 1940s...Hence the M-37 was born.

Incorporating the lessons of WWII, Dodge included the key M-series design elements (24 volt sealed, water proof ignition and electrical system; improved weather protection; deep water fording ability). A synchronized transmission replaced the WWII-era crash box. A two speed-speed transfer case was used, allowing manual engagement of the front axle, as well as an additional reduction range. The US version used the 230 c.i. six cylinder engine, while the Canadian version used the 251 c.i. engine. Steel doors with roll-up windows were incorporated.

Production began in April of 1950 and ceased in January of 1955. Production was re-started in April of 1958 with minor changes and designated the M-37B1. Production ran until the end of 1968 with a total of a 110,840 units manufactured, of that 4,250 were manufactured in Canada (Produced from 1951-55). The Canadian version is identical to the US version except it has a larger engine and transmission and was built for Artic use. These are extremely rare today. (This unit is the Canadian built model).

The M-37 family served with distinction through the Korean and Vietnam wars and was the last series produced medium weight tactical truck purchased by the US military until the advent of the HMMWV. As the last of the M-37s were withdrawn from active military service in the late 1970s, an era closed.

VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS

Manufactured by: Dodge Trucks
Place of Manufacture : Windsor, Canada
Year of Manufacture: March 31, 1952
Engine: 6 cyl. 251 c.i. Flathead
Horsepower: 94
Transmission: Man.-4 forward, 2 Rev
Transfer case: 2-speed
Axle Ratio (Front & Rear): 5.83 to 1
Winch Capacity: 7,500 lbs.
Electrical System: 24 Volts
Empty Weight: 7,800 lbs
Steering: Manual
Brakes: Manual
Turning Diameter: 50 ft
Max Speed @ 3200 rpm: 54 mph
Max Grade Ascending: 68% at 2mph low range.
Fuel Type: Gas-min.72 Octane Fuel Capacity: 24 gal.
Fuel Economy: 5-8 mpg