So the plate indicates that 500lbs is added for the stock winch variants, but my question is are the Leif's different in the front if you have the winch? anyone compare?
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So the plate indicates that 500lbs is added for the stock winch variants, but my question is are the Leif's different in the front if you have the winch? anyone compare?
The suspension does not change between the winch and non winch trucks. This holds true on all the M series trucks as far as I am aware.
Basically, a winch takes away from the hauling capacity of a vehicle. The M35A2 Duece and a half trucks are really bad on this. The trucks were designed for a gas engine and weighed under 13,000 pounds. Add more than 500 pounds for a winch and it isn’t that much of a weight percentage hit. Add the multifuel engine with a winch and the truck is almost at 15,000 pounds. Those multifuel are HEAVY. Now, those trucks are right at the front suspension limit or beyond before any cargo gets added to the truck. Yet, the military never even mentioned anything about limiting loads on those obviously over stressed suspension systems.
I forget his user name but a member from Ohio named Bob figured out last century that a M715 loaded to maximum gross weight will depress the rear springs less than an inch. The stock winch for the M715 is no where near 500 pounds. Even with the PTO, drive shaft, shifter, frame extensions and frame supports added I don’t see the 500 pounds. I have picked up all of those parts by myself in 2 boxes and put them in and out of trucks. I am not able of lifting 250 pounds.
If you are really worried about it. I suggest you find a “hefty” friend. Measure the front bumper or frame height. Then the 2 of you stand on the bumper and see how far it goes down, if it goes down any at all. I think you will be ok.
Thanks, Good info!
My first truck (#30945) that was all original, I sourced and installed a complete winch set up. I saw no difference in ride height. I thought it rode better. It should not be an issue I think.
When I put the 12 valve Cummins in, there was very little drop in the front. That?s around 1000# plus the trans