Converted Military Truck Makes For A Unique Overland Vehicle

Estimated read time 3 min read

The overlanding hobby is flooded with Tacomas, Gladiators, Rams, and other trucks you might see anywhere in your city. Sure, they have special mods to make multi-day journeys more enjoyable and feasible, but none of them are quite like this 1986 AM General M923A1 five ton truck. This one is on the market and ready for someone who really wants adventure in their life.

Overlanding vehicle manufacturer has closed its doors forever.

Right off the bat, this military truck is massive and has six axles, so rolling over pretty much any terrain isn’t going to be an issue. Just don’t try taking this on tight switchbacks or narrow trails with drop-offs and you’ll be fine.

Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace
Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace

Power comes via a six-cylinder Cummins NHC-250 diesel engine, routed through an Alison automatic transmission. For those who know, this is a big attraction.

But what really makes this particular military truck unique is what the owner did using the 14-foot cargo bed. Instead of keeping it bare or installing a unique overland rack system, which could have been really cool, he plopped a 14-foot Coleman popup trailer in there.

As you can see, the camper fits snug, almost like it was meant to be. We’re surprised more people haven’t done builds like this.

Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace
Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace

With the camper you get room for seven to sleep, stove, sink, seating, table, refrigerator, and even a bathroom. Sure, it’s not luxury living but those amenities are nice when you’re in the middle of nowhere.

Plus, being up in that bed, with the camper height included, you’re up and away from any wildlife at night. Most rooftop tents don’t get you to quite that elevation. The guy installed folding stairs with handrails so getting up to the camper is easier.

The 1993 Honda XR 650L and electric bike rack in the rear are included. That’s perfect for exploring the area once you’ve parked this beast of a home base.

Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace
Image via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace

Other amenities like front and rear cameras, a winch, and auxiliary lighting are included. Just know this thing really can’t push past 60 mph. The owner says it’s most comfortable at 55, but fuel economy is about 6-9 mpg. At least there’s an 80 gallon tank.

While this truck isn’t for everyone, the right person might find it unbelievably attractive. Check out its listing on Facebook Marketplace.

Images via Darvish Rour/Facebook Marketplace

Steven Symes

Steven Symes is an accomplished automotive journalist with a passion for all things related to cars. His extensive knowledge and love for the automotive world shine through in his writing, which covers a diverse range of topics.

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