Military Truck Names

Military truck collecting has gotten complicated with all the surplus sources, pricing swings, and restoration debates flying around. As someone who has bought, restored, and driven military trucks for years, I learned everything there is to know about getting into the Deuce and a Half hobby. Today, I will share it all with you.

Why the Deuce?

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The M35 Deuce and a Half is the most popular military truck for collectors, and for good reason. They’re affordable, parts are available, and they’re simple enough that a home mechanic can maintain one. Over 200,000 were built, so the surplus supply hasn’t dried up yet.

The multifuel engine can run on diesel, JP-4, gasoline, or heating oil. That’s not a party trick — it’s genuine engineering for battlefield flexibility. It also means you never have to worry about finding the right fuel at a gas station.

Getting Started

Surplus M35A2s sell for $3,000 to $15,000 depending on condition. GovPlanet, IronPlanet, and military vehicle forums are your best sources. Always inspect before buying. Check the injector pump, frame rust, brake system, and tire age. A cheap truck with expensive problems isn’t actually cheap.

Storage is easier than you’d think. The Deuce fits in most standard driveways and doesn’t need special infrastructure. Registration varies by state — some require CDLs, others don’t. Check your local DMV before buying.

The Community

That’s what makes Deuce collecting endearing to us military vehicle enthusiasts — the community is incredibly welcoming. Online forums, Facebook groups, and local shows connect owners who share parts sources, technical knowledge, and war stories about their trucks. It’s a hobby where strangers help strangers, and that makes all the difference when you’re stuck troubleshooting a temperamental multifuel engine at midnight.