Gov-Planet to Surplus: Where to Find Military Vehicle Parts

Finding parts for military vehicles once meant knowing the right surplus dealers and attending the right auctions. Today, online marketplaces, specialty suppliers, and active communities have made sourcing easier than ever—if you know where to look.

Government Surplus Auctions

GovPlanet (formerly Government Liquidation) operates as the primary outlet for Department of Defense surplus. This online auction platform offers everything from complete vehicles to small parts lots. Registration is straightforward, and inspections are often possible before bidding.

Pricing varies dramatically based on competition and lot composition. Some auctions attract minimal interest; others see fierce bidding for desirable items. Experienced buyers monitor listings over time to understand market values.

Other government auction sites include GSA Auctions for federal property and various state surplus programs. Military installations occasionally hold local sales with less competition than national online auctions.

Specialty Surplus Dealers

Dealers like Memphis Equipment, Vintage Military Trucks, and others specialize in military vehicle parts. These businesses sort surplus into useful categories, test components, and provide some assurance of functionality. Prices exceed raw auction prices but include the convenience of organized inventory and customer support.

Some dealers focus on specific vehicle families—M35 parts, HMMWV components, or particular eras. Finding the right specialist for your vehicle simplifies parts hunting considerably.

Civilian Cross-References

Many military vehicle components have civilian equivalents. Engines may share parts with commercial truck applications. Filters, belts, and bearings often cross-reference to standard automotive parts numbers. Finding these cross-references saves money and improves parts availability.

Online forums are invaluable for cross-reference information. Members share discoveries about compatible parts, often with specific part numbers and suppliers. This collective knowledge represents years of trial and error.

Online Communities and Marketplaces

Steel Soldiers, G503, and other forums host active classifieds sections. Members sell parts, share contacts, and help identify mystery components. Facebook groups provide similar functions with different audiences.

eBay carries substantial military vehicle parts inventory, though quality varies. Reputable sellers have established track records; unknown sellers require caution. Photos and descriptions may not reveal hidden problems.

Making Your Own

Some parts simply aren’t available. Fabrication capability—or knowing someone with it—becomes essential for certain repairs. Many military vehicle components are simple enough for competent fabricators to reproduce. Technical manuals, available free online, provide specifications.