M37 Restoration (53-41242)

[Wayne Hingley]

That’s when I realized that I would have to cut the tires off. So I copied the method described by Jacques Reed in Bob’s thread. After learning the technique on the first tire, I was able to salvage the flaps on the other 3. I have one more to do tomorrow.

[Wayne Hingley]

While handling the wheels and tires, I noticed that one of them was particularly heavy. It felt like it was a loaded tire, but no sloshing noise. As I was cutting that tire, I found it to be almost twice as thick as all the others. It was 8 ply rating Good Year tire, just like all the others. Cross-section comparison below.

[David Herbert]

I would have thought that a small amount of damage on a flap wouldn't cause much of a problem as long as it would sit flat without big bits missing. As for the heavy tire, that is very odd. It's not a run-flat but all that extra rubber got there somehow.

I have had success in the past using the stabilizer leg of a truck with a crane on it to crack the bead loose. In your photo of the pickup and tractor you do look to be achieving something. I know it is hard work cutting tires off - I burnt out a nearly new 9" angle grinder doing it once.

David

[Wayne Hingley]

Originally Posted by David Herbert

...As for the heavy tire, that is very odd. It's not a run-flat but all that extra rubber got there somehow.

From the 5 tires, 2 were of the thick/heavy variety. Upon closer inspection I note the thick ones are designated as "BLX 8 ply". Anyone know what BLX indicates?

UPDATE: I found the following paragraph online from TM 9-1870-1

[Wayne Hingley]

I was able to get out and sandblast the frame, wheels and other miscellaneous frame brackets today. Once the frame paint goes on, I can start the rebuild process. Things are now moving in the right direction.