1961 AMC

Convertible

4 - Cyl.

Manual

Gasoline

M422 1/4-ton Mighty Mite and Equipment Trailer A bit of history; The Mighty Mite, introduced in 1959, was produced in response to the need to have a truck light enough to be flown to forward positions by helicopter and manhandled if necessary. The prototype tested in 1950 had a curb weight, including fuel, of only 1500 pounds, and could pull a payload of two men plus a cargo of 500 pounds. Successful demonstration to the Marine Corps led to the awarding of a contract for ten test vehicles. The Marine Corps required a light tactical car for its projected "vertical envelopment" strategy, which required combat forces to be moved at high speed into forward positions. The Mighty Mite seemed to be just what the Marines and the entire military had been looking for. It had a number of unique features, including center-point steering, individual wheel suspension with front leading arms and rear trailing arms, inboard brakes mounted on the differential case, and lightweight aluminum construction. The Marine Corps wished to bring the vehicle into production without delay, but an item in military regulations prevented this from happening. The test vehicles had Porshce 4-cylinder engines, and the regulations, while allowing the use of imported motors for test vehicles, did not extend this permission to production models. At AMC, an engine existed in prototype stage; a V-4, air-cooled aluminum engine capable of producing about 50 hp. An agreement was reached which involved the transfer of the Mighty Mite's manufacture to AMC, and the firm proceeded with the development of the vehicle. Description taken from U.S. Military Wheeled Vehicles, by Fred W. Crismon, p222; Weighing only 1700 pounds, it incorporated American Motors' model AV-108-4 107.8 cubic inch V-4 gasoline engine, which developed 55 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and was air-cooled. A New Process model 4300 four speed transmission and transfer were fitted, and two or four wheel drive could be selected by the driver. Highly versatile and mobile, the M422 became a vital part of USMC operations, and some of the 1,250 built may still be in service. Overall length was 107 inches, width was 60.5 inches, and it was 50 inches high at the top of the steering wheel. The suspension system was rigid enough so that with proper weight placement, the 65 inch wheelbase M-422 could be driven on only three wheels. American Motors used a completely new body on the M-422 of welded and riveted aluminum. Things you should know about this Mighty Mite: It does not come with a title, however, included in this sale is a title and data plate from a M422A1 that I used as a parts vehicle for another restoration. Starts easily and runs great, does not smoke. Transmission shifts easily through all gears and 4WD operates as designed. Clutch engages properly. Brakes were recently bled and it has a firm pedal. Has a Barstow rebuild tag dated 1968. Has been painted numerous times. Some original USMC markings are visible beneath several coats. It does not have a restoration quality paint job, but it is very presentable, as shown in the photos. 4 wheels have been modified and chromed, visible under the green paint (this was done prior to me owning it). Comes with 1 original, unmodified wheel. Comes with top bows, but no canvas. Body is extremely straight and free of corrosion, dents, and cracks. Tires are in poor condition and have weather checking. The windshield is from a M422A1 (the long wheelbase Mighty Mite). Installed at Barstow rebuild. If you're not already head-over-heels in love and ready to give this little dude a new home, consider the following; a single-axle, tilt-deck equipment trailer, just the right size, is included in this auction so you can tell your wife (or husband) that it followed you home. It has surge brakes, working lights, a jack, good tires, and a GVW of 3,000 pounds. It will be supplied with a lunette for a pintle hook, or a 2" coupler for a ball; your choice. The trailer and Mite can easily be towed by any half-ton pickup or comparable vehicle. The trailer does not have a title, but comes with a bill of sale so that one can be applied for. For anyone who has always wanted to own a collector military vehicle, but could not fit a duece-and-a-half in their garage, or has a pesky HOA that prevents them from parking it in the street, this combo is your ready-made ticket to the MV world! In fact, this setup will probably fit in most sheds! Just don't get hung up on its' small stature, because this Mite is HUGE in the "cool" department. I will gladly assist in loading at my property. If you have any questions, PLEASE DO NOT EMAIL ME. I'm a busy guy and I'm rarely near my computer. I will be happy to answer questions during business hours at 303-688-3611 MST. Note; the long wheelbase M422A1 Mighty Mite with the canvas, pictured behind the topless one, is not for sale. For comparison purposes only. Thanks, Fred