| THE EXPORT PROTOTYPE M-151 |
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The reliability of the United States M151 series light tactical truck led to numerous variations and production models. In the original concept vehicle developed by the Ford Motor Company, it was suggested the engine be equipped with the ignition system sealed in a compartment incorporated within the cylinder head. Proving less reliable than anticipated, this aspect of design was dropped in the type-accepted model. Along with the general body style of curved rear wheel wells, other less apparent design changes were made where the vehicle was ultimately adopted as the M151.
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This original design of four-wheel independent suspension incorporated substantial performance improvements over the existing 1/4 ton vehicle military fleet of M-38’s and M-38A1’s. The M38 and its successor model the M38A1 (later to become the civilian model CJ), were band-aid solutions from their inception.
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Among the suggestions, and later incorporated in a test vehicle were alloy rims for the 16 inch NDTT tires and an aluminum body. The resulting type accepted vehicle consisted of a sheet steel body that proved less than desirable in relation to corrosion resistance. However, this design did keep the design within total unit weight tolerances for air transportability.
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Later designers choose to retrofit solid steel bodies addressing three principle issues. Firstly, the body could be fabricated utilizing less sophisticated tooling. While labor intensive, the design fit neatly into the aspect of third world production where jobs were needed and labor expense less a consideration. Second, the design allowed a superior body in resistance to often-harsh environments as found in many third world countries. Third, the design was such that many countries could afford a larger fleet of a proven vehicle design, and a reduced maintenance ready capability. The M-151 was clearly designed to be maintained under field operating conditions. Balanced against the high initial cost and technician training required, the M-151 based vehicle was simply more cost effective for many fleet solutions.
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This particular version of the M-151 variant prototype incorporates the heavy steel construction and the updated composite lighting system. It is capable of supporting the same, and in many respects a larger variety of indirect and direct fire support weapons platforms.
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It is only one of few remaining examples and continues to suggest a solution for shrinking budgets and increased government requirements of many countries.
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