Deuce and a Half

The “Deuce and a Half” is more than a nickname—it’s become synonymous with American military trucking itself. For over six decades, these 2.5-ton trucks served as the primary medium cargo vehicle for U.S. forces, hauling everything from ammunition to troops across every theater of war from World War II through the Persian Gulf. Today, thousands remain in civilian hands, treasured by collectors and put to practical use by owners who appreciate their legendary durability.

The Origin of a Legend

The Deuce and a Half story begins in 1939 when the U.S. Army issued requirements for a new generation of standardized tactical vehicles. The resulting design, the GMC CCKW, entered production in 1941 and immediately proved itself in the most demanding test imaginable: World War II.

During the war, manufacturers produced over 800,000 CCKW trucks. They landed at Normandy, crossed the Rhine, supplied the Red Ball Express, and supported operations across North Africa, Italy, and the Pacific. The design was so successful that the basic concept persisted for the next 60 years, evolving through several generations while maintaining the essential 2.5-ton, 6×6 formula.

The name “Deuce and a Half” comes from the truck’s 2.5-ton (5,000 pound) rated payload capacity. Like other military truck classifications, this rating reflects cross-country cargo capacity rather than maximum theoretical load. On improved roads, these trucks routinely carried loads well above their ratings—a testament to their robust construction.

Evolution Through the Generations

Understanding the Deuce and a Half requires tracing its evolution through distinct generations, each improving upon the last while maintaining core characteristics.

GMC CCKW (1941-1945)

The original World War II truck established the template. Its GMC straight-six gasoline engine produced 91 horsepower, adequate for the era’s requirements. The 6×6 drivetrain with live axles could negotiate terrain that stopped two-wheel-drive vehicles. The open cab kept production simple while the cargo bed’s flexibility accommodated endless configurations.

M135/M211 Series (1950s)

The Korean War generation updated the CCKW formula with improved engines and transmissions. These trucks served through the 1950s and 1960s, including early Vietnam deployments. Many received rebuilt during their service lives, extending utility well beyond original projections.

M35 Series (1950-1999)

The M35 became the definitive Deuce and a Half. Originally powered by a Continental OA-331 gasoline engine, it later received the legendary LDT-465 multifuel diesel that could run on virtually any combustible liquid—diesel, JP-4 jet fuel, gasoline, or even heating oil in emergencies.

The M35 spawned numerous variants and upgrades:

• M35A1: Automatic transmission upgrade
• M35A2: Multifuel diesel engine, the most common variant
• M35A3: Updated diesel engine, improved cab

Production continued through 1999, with trucks remaining in service with National Guard and Reserve units well into the 2000s. Total M35 production exceeded 200,000 vehicles.

M44 Series (1950s-1980s)

The Air Force operated its own Deuce and a Half variant, the M44 series, which featured different bodywork optimized for ground support roles. These trucks supported aircraft operations at bases worldwide.

Technical Specifications (M35A2)

The M35A2 represents the most common Deuce and a Half variant and the type most frequently encountered in civilian ownership:

• Configuration: 6×6 (all-wheel drive)
• Engine: Continental LDT-465-1C multifuel diesel, 134 horsepower
• Transmission: Spicer 5-speed manual or Allison MT-643 automatic
• Transfer Case: Two-speed with high and low range
• Payload: 5,000 pounds (2.5 tons) cross-country, 10,000 pounds on improved roads
• Gross Vehicle Weight: 23,000 pounds
• Maximum Speed: 55 mph
• Range: 300+ miles
• Fuel Capacity: 50 gallons
• Fording Depth: 30 inches without preparation

The multifuel engine deserves special attention. Continental designed this powerplant to operate on any available fuel in battlefield conditions where logistics might deliver the wrong fuel type. The engine uses a unique fuel injection system that automatically adjusts for different fuel characteristics. This flexibility came at the cost of power and efficiency—the engine produces modest horsepower for its displacement—but the operational advantage outweighed the performance penalty.

Body Configurations

The Deuce and a Half chassis supported numerous body configurations, each designated by a separate M-number:

M35 Standard Cargo

The baseline cargo truck featured a 12-foot steel bed with removable stake sides and a canvas cover. Folding troop seats along the sides could accommodate up to 24 soldiers, though such loads were cramped. Tie-down rings throughout the bed secured varied cargo.

M36 Long Wheelbase Cargo

An extended version increased cargo bed length to 14 feet, accommodating larger loads or more troops. The longer wheelbase slightly reduced maneuverability but improved highway stability.

M49 Fuel Tanker

A 1,200-gallon fuel tank replaced the cargo bed, creating a tactical refueling vehicle. These trucks kept convoys moving and supplied forward units with the fuel needed to continue operations.

M50 Water Tanker

Similar to the fuel tanker but configured for potable water distribution. Essential in arid environments and wherever local water supplies were unsafe or unavailable.

M108 Shop Van

An enclosed van body converted the truck into a mobile maintenance facility. Mechanics could perform repairs in the field without returning vehicles to rear area maintenance facilities.

M109 Shop Van

Similar to the M108 but configured for specific maintenance specialties or communications functions.

M60 Wrecker

A crane and winch assembly turned the Deuce into a light recovery vehicle. While unable to lift heavy trucks, it could recover Jeeps, trailers, and smaller vehicles that became stuck or disabled.

Combat History

The Deuce and a Half served in every American military operation from World War II through the early 2000s. Its service record reads like a history of modern American military involvement.

World War II

CCKW trucks carried supplies from Normandy beaches across France, Belgium, and into Germany. The famous Red Ball Express—a non-stop truck convoy system that supplied advancing Allied forces—relied primarily on Deuce and a Half trucks. Without these trucks, the rapid Allied advance across Europe would have stalled.

Korea

The harsh Korean winters and mountainous terrain tested truck durability. Deuces hauled supplies to front-line units, evacuated wounded soldiers, and provided mobility in conditions that challenged even the most capable vehicles.

Vietnam

In Vietnam, Deuces served convoy duty along roads subject to ambush and mine attack. The trucks’ height actually provided some protection against early improvised mines. Drivers learned to run at high speed through dangerous areas, relying on the truck’s durability to survive hazards.

Desert Storm and Beyond

By Operation Desert Storm, the Deuce and a Half was showing its age. Newer MTV series trucks offered better performance and protection. However, Deuces remained in inventory, particularly with National Guard and Reserve units, serving through Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom before final retirement.

The Deuce in Civilian Life

Thousands of Deuce and a Half trucks have found second careers in civilian hands. Their combination of capability, simplicity, and availability makes them popular choices for several applications:

Farm and Ranch Use

The 6×6 drivetrain excels in muddy fields and unpaved ranch roads. The cargo bed accommodates hay bales, feed, fencing materials, and equipment that would overwhelm pickup trucks. Many farmers consider a Deuce essential for operations on large properties.

Off-Road Recreation

The Deuce’s off-road capability makes it popular for accessing remote hunting camps, off-road parks, and wilderness areas. The high clearance and aggressive tires handle terrain that stops ordinary 4x4s.

Overlanding

Adventure travelers have discovered the Deuce as an expedition vehicle platform. The cargo bed accommodates custom living quarters, while the drivetrain can reach remote destinations inaccessible to conventional RVs.

Collection and Restoration

Military vehicle collectors prize original-condition Deuces, particularly rare variants and those with documented service histories. Restored examples appear at shows, parades, and living history events.

Emergency Preparedness

The Deuce’s ability to operate on multiple fuel types appeals to preppers and emergency responders. In disaster scenarios, fuel flexibility becomes a genuine advantage when specific fuel types may be unavailable.

Buying a Surplus Deuce and a Half

The surplus market offers steady supply of Deuce trucks at prices accessible to average buyers. Here’s what to consider:

Pricing

Running, operational M35A2s typically sell for $3,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, configuration, and mileage. Project trucks can be found for under $2,000, while pristine restored examples may exceed $25,000. Rare variants like wreckers command premiums.

What to Look For

The multifuel engine’s unique fuel system requires expertise to evaluate properly. Common issues include:

• Injector pump problems (expensive to rebuild)
• Combustion chamber cracking
• Hard starting in cold weather
• Excessive smoke at startup

Beyond the engine, examine:

• Frame condition and rust
• Axle seal leaks
• Transfer case operation
• Brake system air leaks
• Cab floor and structural rust
• Bed condition and hardware

Automatic vs. Manual Transmission

M35A2s came with either 5-speed manual or Allison automatic transmissions. The automatic simplifies operation, particularly in stop-and-go driving. The manual offers better fuel economy and simpler maintenance. Both are reliable; choose based on intended use.

Living with a Deuce

Owning a Deuce and a Half requires accepting certain realities:

Speed: The governed top speed of 55 mph makes highway travel an exercise in patience. Plan extra time for any journey.

Fuel Economy: Expect 8-12 miles per gallon depending on load and conditions. The 50-gallon tank provides adequate range but expensive fill-ups.

Noise: The multifuel engine is loud, and the cab has minimal sound insulation. Hearing protection is advisable for extended driving.

Size: While smaller than heavy tactical trucks, the Deuce still requires careful navigation in parking lots and on narrow roads. The turning radius demands planning.

Parts: Common wear items remain available through surplus channels and aftermarket suppliers. Major components like injector pumps require specialist rebuilding.

Engine Alternatives

Some owners replace the temperamental multifuel engine with more conventional diesels. Popular swaps include:

• Cummins 5.9: The 6BT diesel from Dodge pickups fits with adaptation and provides reliable modern power.
• Detroit Diesel 4-53: A period-correct option that maintains military character while improving reliability.
• Ford/International diesels: Various truck engines can be adapted with custom mounting.

Engine swaps eliminate multifuel capability but dramatically improve reliability and performance. Many owners consider the trade-off worthwhile for regular-use trucks.

Conclusion

The Deuce and a Half earned its legendary status through decades of reliable service across every imaginable condition. From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, these trucks carried supplies, troops, and equipment wherever American forces operated.

Today, the Deuce remains viable for civilian owners who appreciate its unique capabilities. The combination of reasonable acquisition cost, real utility, and military heritage creates an ownership experience unlike any civilian vehicle. Whether you need serious off-road capability, want to participate in living history events, or simply appreciate owning a piece of American military heritage, the Deuce and a Half deserves consideration.

The truck that won World War II, supported operations in Korea and Vietnam, and served through Desert Storm can now serve you. Thousands of owners have discovered that these trucks, properly maintained, have decades of service life remaining. The Deuce and a Half isn’t just history—it’s a practical vehicle that can still earn its keep.