An Olive-Drab.com visitor writes:
How can I tell if a Dodge M37 is a Canadian Model or a U.S. model? I have heard that the Canadian models had a metal cab roof and came with a heater and a larger engine. But hard tops can be added and so can heaters. There is no outward difference in the engines. One has 230 cid and the other 245 cid. but they look the same.
Can anyone shed any light on this? Is there a sure way to tell by VIN or some other sure fire way ?
Thank you.
ANSWER:
The M37CDN were separately manufactured using components from Dodge in
Detroit, but assembled in Canada. Most of the components were the
same except for the 250,6 cu in engine, transmission, and PTO which
were produced in Canada.
In addition to the M37CDN Cargo truck (with and without winch), three
other models were produced:
- M56 cab and chassis
- M43CDN ambulance
- M152CDN panel truck
The M42CDN was made from an M37CDN with a kit, same as the US version.
As far as I know, there were no external differences between the US and CDN models, except for the panel truck which had a different window style. The dataplate would identity the truck as M37CDN and there was a different serial number sequence. The serial number can be found on the dash dataplate, if still intact, or on the side of the
left frame rail, near the top, just forward of the front axle. The CDN vehicles ran from 91,400,001 to 91, 404,524 for a total of 4524 vehicles. The month and year of production can be determined from the s/n.
There is a small book titled “TM 9-1840C M37 – The Production Story” from the IPC Research Department (John Zentmyer), published in 1987. It has all of the above information and much more. It is out of print but you may be able to pick one up from Adirondack Parts or other sources:
http://www.adirondackdodgeparts.com/prod2.htm
I also recommend you get involved with one of the M37 oriented forums, available via links on this page:
http://www.olive-drab.com/od_mvg_listserver.php3
Good luck with your project. I hope this helps.
Chuck
Chuck Chriss
Editor
Olive-Drab.com LLC