A rarely seen model is the 1987-2001 CUCV II, the militarized version of the civilian GMT400 platform. Only purchased in small numbers by the US military (Only number I have found in my research is around 800 units), with over 3,000 ordered by other governments across the world.
The CUCV II was a modernization of the more well know “squarebody” CUCV. Based almost directly on the civilian version, only specific changes were made for military use. CUCV II’s were not inherently more heavy duty than what was available to everyone else from their local GM dealership.
Drivetrains mirrored what was available in similar year civilian trucks. It appears many where equipped with 5.7L gas engines or 6.2L/6.5L Detroit diesels (makes sense since they were also used in the HMVV)
It appears the following items where changed for each vehicle:
- Dual 24 volt batteries for the starting system, rest of the vehicle was 12 volt
- Brush Bar
- Pintle Hitch
- Shackles for loading and recovery
- Extra leaf spring
- Military paint
Many CUCVII’s will have cutouts for blackout lights and a NATO slave connection in the grill. They should also have a second voltmeter in place of the dash cubby for the 24 volt system. Also look for the military data plate on the door.
These trucks are fairly rare so information is scarce.
CUCV II Variants
Type A
Two-door utility vehicle, with space for a driver and four passengers. Based on the Blazer/Tahoe.
Type B
Cargo truck, with open utility bed. Seats could be fitted for troop transportation.
Type C
Ambulance, accommodating 4 stretchers or 8 seated casualties
Type E / Type F
Shelter carrier and communications shelter carrier.
Type S
Four-door command car, with space for a driver and five passengers.
