This 1971 Chevrolet XM705 (chassis 03A34871-B100027) is one of 30 prototypes built to compete with the existing Kaiser-Jeep M715, and though this model was supposedly superior, the government favored the Kaiser’s lower cost. The quoted production number is consistent with all sites containing any info pertinent to this model, and this particular truck (#27) is a project with some rust and a few missing parts–still, it does run and drive. Find it here on eBay in Dundee, Oregon with a $10k BIN.

Paint and markings are said to be original and the ad includes an older photo of the truck. The canvas top and bows pictured in that photo aren’t mentioned and don’t appear to be present, while the tailgate, winch, and spare are absent. While additional rust is mentioned in the cab and hardtop, that in the bed looks pretty bad with several holes and aggressive surface corrosion. Along with a fascia similar to its successful competitor, the truck also wears a Jeep-style grille with seven slots.

The cab features an interesting layout with three bucket seats–it’s strange that a bench wasn’t selected. All instruction decals and a data tag are mounted to the dash, and as the former indicate, it features a 4-speed manual with low first. The ad also lists Spicer solid axles and a 2-speed NP205 transfer case. As can be seen in the seller’s video linked below, the hardtop is removable.

Although it had been sitting for 14 years, the truck’s stock Chevrolet 307 V8 nonetheless started and ran as seen here, after a cleaned fuel tank, two new batteries, and an electric fuel pump were fitted. The master cylinder is also new and brakes function, but wheel cylinders are suspected to be in need of replacement as the truck pulls to the left. The transfer case is also said to leak. A video showing a short drive can be found here.

According to our research and this military truck fan site, these trucks were more than capable of their intended duties and are dependable as well–it sounds like several were re-purposed by fire departments and the Forest Service. With five believed to survive, you definitely won’t see another at the average show.