Australian International K5

[Matt Austin]

G'day folks,

I've been pottering away on the K5, getting advice on how to go about it. I'll be moving it to covered accommodation in about three weeks, so that should help things.

I'm just wondering whether Aussie vehicles that were intended to remain in Australia had the bridge classification disc? I'd imagine so, but would appreciate advice. If so, would it be an 8? Or maybe a 9?

I'm thinking of making up a 2nd Army tac plate with the horse over the boomerang; would this be appropriate for a CMF vehicle?

Cheers,
Matt

[Matt Austin]

They say it can be dangerous to give someone some free time and a stick of chalk!

Mike Cecil kindly found my vehicle's ARN from the chassis number, so I know that 43362 is indeed correct for this truck. But paint is for another day.

The fun continues. I know that 18" tyres are like rocking horse poop, but I'm keeping my eyes open. As can be seen, someone put doubles on the rear, so I reckon I'll have to change back at some point for authenticity. Unless I can find a civillian option that allows for more common wheels and tyres.

The fun continues!

Cheers,
Matt

[cliff]

A lot of these Internationals were supplied new with dual wheels on the rear. The photo below shows new K5 models in 1941. Where this pic was taken I do not know nor do I know the original originator of it either

[cliff]

here is another interesting one. A Tractor unit with canvas top and duals. Photo I believe was taken in the Northern Territories on the North/South (Stuart) Highway. Originator unknown

[Matt Austin]

Thanks very much, Cliff, nice pics there.

I'd forgotten about the factory pic. There are pics from the IHC collection in the Museum of Victoria collection, of which that pic is one. I'd forgotten about the duals, so it seems that one less thing for me to worry about.

Your pic of the tractor unit is interesting, and it'd appear to have the same type of roof as mine. I understand that mine was one of many so rebuilt after being damaged. As the Inters weren't used by the AIF, I'm imagining a rollover or something equally mundane!

Cheers,
Matt

[cliff]

Matt the canvas roof type were built like that from new not when damaged. a lot of Fords had the same type body as well. Another unique Aussie built truck

Post war many of these open cabs were closed in by civilian buyers who wanted a bit more comfort from the cold

The South Australia State Library photo below shows another canvas topped Inter in the Northern Territory with an RAAF unit

[Matt Austin]

Thanks Cliff, great pic.

I haven't been able to find images of K-series Inters with the split rims like mine. I'm wondering if I could do a swap for some spider hubs for the time being, to get around the 10.50-18 shortage?

Anyone have experience in changing wheel types?

Cheers,
Matt