Slimjim176

Actually, I've just noticed that in MAT4155, in table 2, they also list the following in English (the scan I downloaded only has part of that page) "Fluid Shock Absorber Heavy" JAN-F-461 Which is apparently MIL-S-46013, that's a silicone fluid. I can't find any technical specs yet though!

That's interesting! I find a company overseas that specialises in re-casting metallastic bushes but have contacted them. Have you found a specific compound/kit? There are various threads on Driftworks, Grassrootsmotorsports etc The maintenance manual MAT4155 lists the shock absorber oil as AR 3520 or OM-15 (equivalent to OM-18). As an example, Nyco list the following info for their FH 51: Kinematic viscosity: @100°C: 5.39 mm2/s @40°C: 14.12 mm2/s By comparison Redline Heavyweight 30WT Suspension Fluid is listed as: @100°C: 22.8 mm2/s @40°C: 67.9 mm2/s Their Medium 10WT is listed as: @100°C: 17.7 mm2/s @40°C: 32.0 mm2/s Lightweight 5WT is listed as: @100°C: 8 mm2/s @40°C: 16 mm2/s I've only ever tried varying the shock oil weight on mountain bike forks and large 20kg RC buggies, so I'm definitely not equipped to give any advice on how the 5000kg SUMB would handle (and my SUMB isn't running yet), so hopefully someone with more experience could advise, but it looks looks even 10WT would give a noticeable increase in damping stiffness? Good luck!

Very interested to follow this! Panhard rod bushes are perished but I haven't found a direct replacement yet.

That's very interesting! I bought a second rotten truck recently to share with a friend for drivetrain spares, but am definitely interested in a source of parts. Could you share the location/name of the site? We're planning to drive down to the South next May to watch the European Truck Trials, so would be interesting to stop off on the way and have a look

Thanks Robin, I've managed to get hold of a couple now, local to me. Has anyone tried Kerry for Sumb parts lately?

I've got a couple of spare rims now, thanks

Hello experts! Questions regarding a Simca Sumb... I realise this is an old thread, but hopefully can get some advice from those with experience of these two questions, as I have previously asked the DVLA but they could not answer: - Has anyone determined what of meant by 'running gear'? I have asked the DVLA but they could not answer the question, ave could only suggest that I make changes, then submit a report and they will determine whether the truck should keep its Historic status, which seems risky - If the original V8 petrol engine and 4-spd gearbox are not reasonably available (i.e. difficult to find in the UK, and would probably cost more than I paid for the truck), and I decide to replace with a later diesel engine, that is equivalent in cylinder count and displacement to those fitted to later models of the truck by the French army (but not the actual Renault engine), would that result in keeping Historic status but require an annual MOT? Effectively the engine is being changed to one that matches the fuel type, capacity and cylinder count (if not make), of a variant of the Sumb I'm not concerned if it does then require an MOT, as I prefer too know that it is roadworthy, although I will take absolute care with all required maintenance. Thanks in advance for any experience.

Hi Martin, I might have one on the garage but I do not know what condition it's in. I'll dig it out at the weekend if it's there. Otherwise it'll be at work, and unfortunately I can't travel there with the current restrictions Adam

Thanks Robin

Thank You Robin

Ditto, maybe just didn't have a cab or axles that I was enquiring about - I'll send another email to check if they have any Sumbs left

Nelson Hydraulics can supply the wheel cylinder seals, but I haven't tried to source any air pak seals

I recently emailed Kerry at RR Services to enquire about spares for the Sumb, but got a brief reply saying that they were unable to help at present. Does anyone know if they still have trucks/spares?

This is the link to the French manuals (thanks to Pitmole) I am steadily working through them so may be able to help with certain sections

Thank you for those links

Hello MV experts, Does anyone know the maximum width of tire that can be fitted to Simca UNIC Sumb rims, instead of the original 10.5 R20? I am looking at (Unimog) 335/80 R20 or 12.5 R20, but the sellers are not sure if they will work? I'm aware there will be an increase in tire OD and need to check rubbing clearance. Thanks, Adam

Hello MV experts, Does anyone know the maximum width of tire that can be fitted to Simca UNIC Sumb rims, instead of the original 10.5 R20? I am looking at (Unimog) 335/80 R20 or 12.5 R20, but the sellers are sure if they will work? I'm aware there will be an increase in tire OD and need to check rubbing clearance. Thanks, Adam

Thanks Ian for this advice - apologies that I didn't reply sooner

Following this thread with interest, thank you all for the useful information above. Adam

I've just bought a Sumb which needs a fair amount of work, and some parts to get running (mainly the air pak needs a complete overhaul or potentially replacement - might have to find an equivalent from a different truck?). Can anyone recommend a good general source of spares - are RR still the best bet in the UK? Any good sources in France or mainland Europe? And do spares ever turn up at the UK military vehicle shows? Thanks in advance, Adam

I'm also interested as my air pac is in a poor state and requires a complete overhaul (or replacement with an equivalent) Thanks, Adam