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In 1951, a contract was granted to Ford Motor Company to develop a Military Utility Tactical Truck(MUTT)to replace the ageing MB/GPW, M38 and M38A1. Three key issues were taken into consideration for the design lf the new vehicle: fabrication of the body can be done using less sophisticated tooling, body will have high resistance to the harsh environmental effects, and finally, the cost lf the vehicle and the maintenance to be affordable to offer a large fleet to other countries.
Various prototypes were developed but the vehicle that was accepted by Army's Ordnance Truck Automotive Command (OTAC) had an all-steel, integral chassis/body unit, all-wheel independent suspension, 24-volf waterproofed electrical system, two/four wheel drive, and a four-speed, single transfer transmission.
The first production contract was awarded to Ford in 1960 and the vehicles were issued to the Military with designation of M151, 1/4ton, 4Ąż4 utility tuck. In 1963/64m, a revised version of the truck was developed, featuring a heavier-duty rear suspension. This was designated the M151A1. This addressed an issue with suspension problems on the original M151 due to the additional weapons and loads. Production commenced in 1964 through 1969, with vehicles built b both Ford and Willys(later Kaiser, AMC, AM General)
Due to the swing-axle type independent rear suspension, combined with lack of body tilt on cornering, the M151 and M151A1 had the tendency to over steer and roll over when cornering too aggressively. The vehicle gained a reputation of being unsafe, with warnings given to troops to watch their speed, especially on turns. In 1970, the redesign of the rear suspension was incorporated which resulted in M151A2.
Despite its poor reputation, the M151 established a record of reliability and proven performance over a wide range of operational areas, suitable for multiple roles and application. In is used in over 100 foreign countries in their police and military forces.
About the Model
Accurately reproduced M151A1 in Vietnam war.
Highly detailed engine room & suspensions.
Plentiful accessory parts.
Includes realistic rubber tire.
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