M37 arctic kit

[Theosaf66]

Hi, I've got recently an NOS arctic kit from MDM for my M37B1. In order to be installed needs the passanger side step to be shortened and the panel behind the right front fender to cut off?? How it's possible destroy parts of the vehicle to install original parts? and more over should the heater box to located so low behind the front Tire ?
With this on u can't really go on a walking path to park without damage it,
Can any one tell me if possible otherwise??
Thanks Theo

[52 M-42]

Hi Theo,

It sounds like you have the engine and battery heater part of the Arctic Winterization Kit. This kit was designed to keep the engine and batteries warm in Arctic conditions (-20 degrees to -70 degrees F). These kits were designed for use in Alaska, Korea, Siberia, etc. They are not designed to heat the passenger cabin or the cargo bed.

The military routinely would "modify" parts for the installation of specific kits. If the kits were removed later, new parts would be ordered or on hand to replace the modified parts.

If you are looking for a cab heater, I believe the the best one for you would be the fender mounted engine coolant heater (if you want to keep your truck "stock" military). There are various other heaters that will work and can be adapted to the truck, but you will lose passenger legroom and you will still need to find the windshield defroster duct (which is part of the stock heater kits).

Being in Greece, I really don't think you will ever need to use that Arctic engine heater kit.

52 M-42

[Theosaf66]

very true, no need in Greece, but !!!!! good to have it makes u happy
Thanks

[Murf]

Yes, the "proper" way to install that kit is to cut the inner fender splash guard among other things. These were add-on kits where function was more important form. That kit also wants you to drill holes in the left fender to mount the fuel tank that feeds the heater. It's up to you how much you want to irreversibly modify your truck. From a nostalgic point, sure they look neat but that's about it. I do have one question. Did the kit come with the M-37 hood blanket OR is it a leftover WC blanket. The earlier kits had a WC blanket until they made one specifically for the 37. The difference is pretty obvious. The quilted 37 cover is much more fitted than a WC and looks a lot better. They are pretty rare.

[Theosaf66]

Most probably I will not install it as I don't really like to cut off parts from the vehicle, It's good to have it though,
As of the blanket it's true that came with the blanket but first I have bot tried on it yet to know how well fits and secondly I have not seen the other one to know the different between, anyhow next week I'll start to post and share some photos of the M37 and other staff may be interesting for others.
Thanks for your reply as really helpful.
Thanks Theo

[Theosaf66]

You may see it in the midwest military webside on M37 parts page 12

[Rick C]

The passenger running board doesn't need to be shortened. It has 2 sets of mounting holes. Unbolt it, slide it back and bolt it back up again.
Rick

[Theosaf66]

Thanks Rick I'll try that
Theo