This Incredible 1967 Kaiser M715 Rocks A 6.5L Diesel, CUCV Service Bed, And 40s

BJ Kohlleppel has always had a thing for military trucks. Over the years, he’s owned three M35A2 6x6s, several M998 Humvees, an M1028 CUCV, and more. But one military rig, the M715, has always been his favorite, and it was the foundation for this wild build. He picked up this 1967 Kaiser Jeep M715 in non-running condition back in 2012. Nearly a decade later, in 2021, he completely overhauled the truck and added a service body. The result is a capable off-grid explorer that also excels in towing duty.

Three 6.5-Liter Engines To Make One

Under the hood sits an Optimizer 6500 6.5-liter V8 diesel that BJ pieced together using parts from three different engines. One of the engines came from a friend who was swapping a Humvee over to a 5.3-liter V8 gas engine. To wake up the old-school diesel, BJ added a DB2-4911 injection pump and an HX40 turbocharger. Supporting hardware includes an LB7 Duramax-application radiator, dual 16-inch Spal brushless fans, and a Derale remote oil cooler with its own fan.

“My engine choice seems to bring out the hate,” BJ admits, though he says he’s had incredible luck with the “gutless old GM diesels.”

Backing the diesel is a GM NV4500 five-speed manual transmission sourced from BJ’s own stash of parts. Behind that is a Ford NP205 two-speed transfer case with a GM 32-spline input, which he scored by trading away a TH400 automatic transmission.

Stout Axles And 4.56s

Under the truck is a pair of stout axles. Up front sits an LKQ-sourced 2005 Ford Super Duty Dana 60 loaded with a Yukon Gear & Axle Grizzly Locker and manual lockout hubs. To help point the tires no matter the terrain, BJ upgraded the steering with a Redneck Ram hydro-assist kit.

Out back is a GM 14-bolt axle pulled from a 2002 Chevy 2500 parts truck. It’s equipped with disc brakes and an Eaton Detroit Locker. Both axles spin 4.56:1 gears.

Air Bag Suspension And 40s  

BJ says the foundation of the suspension came from a 2005 Ford Super Duty, but the setup is far from stock. Instead of traditional leaf springs and coils, the truck rides on ContiTech air bags that allow for adjustable ride height. Bilstein 5100 shocks handle damping duties up front, while Rancho shocks control the rear. Limit straps help keep everything in check, and a custom rear track bar built from 1.5-inch-diameter, 0.250-inch-wall tubing adds strength and stability.

The truck rolls on beefy 40×13.50R17 Pro Comp XTerrain tires wrapped around 8-inch-wide Pro Comp wheels.

Modified CUCV Service Bed

One of BJ’s favorite parts of the build is the service bed sourced from a 1980s CUCV truck. He transformed it into an overlanding-ready living space and describes it as “basically a tiny camper.” The setup includes a propane heater, air conditioning, a homemade bed frame, hot water capabilities, a shower, refrigerator, gas generator, and tons of storage for extended backcountry adventures.

Outside, the M715 sports a custom front bumper with a Smittybilt 10,000-pound-capacity winch, rocker protection with integrated steps, and enough lighting to turn night into day. Part of the electrical system is a massive 1,200-CCA heavy-equipment battery.

Inside, the truck keeps its rugged vibe but sports some creature comforts. The list includes military surplus seats and a Vintage Air Gen 4 climate control system. A full suite of Auto Meter gauges keeps tabs on everything from speed and fuel level to oil pressure, coolant temperature, and turbo boost.

Off-Roader And Tow Vehicle

BJ says, “This truck was built more for travel, camping, and lighter off-road use. I also use it to tow my rock crawler quite a bit.” His rock crawler is a 1984 Toyota-based rig powered by a propane-fired 22R engine.

The M715’s initial build took about 14 months to complete. However, BJ says he’s always working on the rig to make improvements. If you’re wheeling at Hot Springs Off-Road Park, Wolf Caves, or Katemcy Rocks, keep an eye out for BJ and his rigs. These are some of his favorite places to hit the dirt.

Photos by BJ Kohllepel