M422A1 Mighty Mite diesel build

[mspeters]

4+ years of saturdays to turn a M422A1 no-engine parts rig into a viable desert explorer.
It has a aluminum body, independent suspension. Drivetrain is. VW 1.9 AAZ turbo diesel with modern AX15 5 speed, 5:33 gears with dana 27 powerloks, 3:1 transfer case, power steering with Toyota truck box, inboard disc brakes. These originally had a air cooled V-4 and were made by AMC for the Marines.

 

[k9lestat]

that is a good job

 

[njtacoma]

That is super cool.

I always like them, the first side by side.

Looks like really amazing work on your part

 

[NorthernMexican]

Beautiful workmanship! Seems like a good NA alternative to a Haflinger.

 

[Mundo4x4Casa]

Just great build-up! I like the way you think; outside the box. Even with the VW diesel that rig should be very lightweight. All her larger cousins were cut for scrap as they spent a lot of time on their sides or tops.
regards, as always, jefe

 

[nickw]

Wow - impressive. What a perfect little rig to get out and explore the desert with. Do you have a build thread or more pics? What can you tell me about the f/r diffs?

I can see why the Marines didn't stick with it....can't put a Marine in a cute little thing like that!

 

[jagular7]

Very nice.

 

[Gator]

Wow! That is awesome! Just saw one of these in worn out condition at the Turkey Rod Run. Glad I did not see this thread 1st. Mama would not be happy with me lol
Lator....

 

[casioqv]

Awesome vehicle! VW diesels are the ultimate engine for a reliable and fuel efficient expedition vehicle.

 

[mspeters]

Here are a couple pictues during the build up. The stock dana 27s were custom made for the mighty mite with aluminum housings, powerloks and inboard brakes. Much eyeball engineering to repack a larger driveline, radiator, power brakes & steering. More adjustments are need before a 1st camp trip: more air holes for the radiator and new springs as it's sitting 2" too low.

 

[Shapeshifter]

Wow! Excellent build work!

 

[WagoneerSX4]

That is awesome! Can you license that for the road? I bet that thing is a blast with all that torque!!

 

[quickfarms]

Did you have it at the Lodi event in April?

 

[mspeters]

Did you have it at the Lodi event in April?

Quickfarms,
Yes, it was there for Friday and took a honorary picture with the authentic M422A1 Mites at the show. Glad I had a top with the rain showers. Next year my restored one will be there. The resto-mod build delayed the body restoration by 4 years.

 

[DzlToy]

That is the coolest VW powered rig I have ever seen.

How did you mate the TDI to the AX15?