FAQ

FMTV Truck Sales FAQ’s
‍We field a LOT of questions regarding our reconditioned FMTV’s and our Acela Monterra trucks– I mean, they are about the coolest and most capable trucks ever built!  We ask that you please read through this entire document to familiarize yourself with our trucks, our processes, our capabilities and our eagerness to work with you.  If your question is not addressed here, PLEASE feel free to contact us – we’re eager to help!​

‍What do you mean by FMTV vs. MTV vs. LMTV anyway?
‍FMTV refers to the “Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles” which includes 17 variants of the 6×6 “Medium Tactical Vehicle” (MTV) and the 4×4 “Light Medium Tactical Vehicle” (LMTV). FMTVs were produced exclusively for the United States Department of Defense as extreme-duty, high mobility troop carriers, mobile command centers, MHE cranes, wreckers, etc. They were built specifically to operate in the most challenging conditions on the planet.  The program has been an incredible success with over 90,000 FMTV’s delivered since 1993.  They are the only wheeled vehicle to ever achieve the U.S. Army’s “Ultra Reliable” status and are still in production today.
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‍​What is the history of and where can I learn more about FMTV’s?
Please click here for a detailed history of the FMTV.​

‍What is the relationship between MTV Truck Sales and Acela Truck Company?
MTV Truck Sales is a sister company to Acela Truck Company.  Acela Truck Company produces the Acela Monterra line of fully frame-up refurbished FMTV’s and manages all fleet and commercial sales of the Monterra product line.  Acela also performs the mechanical reconditioning of MTV Truck Sales’ FMTV’s.  MTV Truck Sales is the retail arm of Acela and exclusive provider of reconditioned FMTV’s and retail parts sales.​

What range of FMTV versions and variants do you sell?  
We sell three base products, each in multiple 4×4 and 6×6 variants.  They are the A0 (originally manufactured from 1993-1999), the A1 (originally manufactured from 1999-current), and the Acela Monterra, a completely frame-up refurbished A1 FMTV.  You can view our current inventory here.​

What is the difference between your reconditioned FMTV’s and the Acela Monterra?
We offer FMTV’s in two levels of refurbishment.  Our mechanically reconditioned FMTV’s have their original beds/bodies still attached and have undergone a complete mechanical inspection, diagnostics and fluids/wear parts replacement with over 50 new parts.  Reconditioned FMTV’s are sold as-is with computer diagnostic print-outs (A1 Only).  The Acela Monterra is our flagship, high-end product and recommended for commercial use and ultimate comfort.  Monterras have undergone an exhaustive refurbishment process in which they have been completely torn down to their frame rails, cabs removed and gutted.  All parts are properly prepped and painted and reassembled according to strict processes in a LEAN manufacturing environment with over 650 new parts and sold with a one-year limited bumper to bumper warranty.​

What sets you apart from competitors?
We eat, breathe, sleep and bleed FMTV’s – it’s all we do and we’ve been doing it for 8 years, since we worked with the original commercial variant of the FMTV, the SD Brazos. We operate out of a 30,000 square foot production facility on a 10-acre campus with well vetted and expertly trained and seasoned FMTV diesel mechanics, paint and body techs, production, sales, marketing and administrative staff.  About half of our staff are US military vets or are still active in the National Guard. Our engineer just happens to be an Abrams tank gunner! We are 100% committed to delivering reliable reconditioned FMTVs and fully restored Acela Monterras and bend over backwards to ensure total customer satisfaction during and after the sale!​

Are FMTV trucks reliable?
After refurbishment FMTV’s are every bit as reliable and just as easy to maintain as any other comparably sized heavy-duty diesel truck.  The FMTV is the  ONLY wheeled vehicle to ever achieve the U.S. Army’s coveted “Ultra Reliable” rating.​

What is FMTV parts availability?
Over 80% of FMTV parts can be commercially sourced online or at most diesel parts shops.  The Caterpillar engine, Allison transmission, and many other components are Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) parts.  Parts not commonly available, such as cab/body and axle parts, can be sourced directly from us and/or our parts and service partners as we/they maintain an extensive inventory of these parts.  An inventory of parts can be found here.​

How expensive is an FMTV to maintain?
The FMTV is as expensive (or inexpensive) to maintain as any other comparably sized diesel truck.  Virtually all parts are readily available (please see Parts Availability Section) and periodic maintenance is not beyond that of comparable 4×4 or 6×6 trucks.  FMTV’s can be serviced at almost any diesel truck shop at prevailing rates – many of whom offer steep discounts or “points” for oil changes and other service work to over-the-road truckers – so look for maintenance specials at truck stop websites and in their flyers!​

What is the top speed of the FMTV?  
Our standard reconditioned FMTV’s are limited to approximately 58 MPH (93 KM/H).  We offer a high-speed gearing option that increases top speed to approximately 74 MPH.​

What is a Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS)?
CTIS enables FMTV drivers to set the vehicle tires to one of four pre-set pressures for maximum traction and safety on virtually any on- or off-highway terrain.  CTIS modes include Highway, Cross-Country, Sand/Mud/Snow and Emergency (stuck).​​

Is Central Tire Inflation System (CTIS) standard equipment on FMTV’s?
CTIS Though all FMTV’s were originally equipped with CTIS, most have sat unused for years and the CTIS system components have degraded.  In order to ensure that you’ll be getting a well-operating CTIS system, with any level of comfort, we replace over 30 [expensive!] military-only components with Dana original equipment and spend a significant amount of time programming, calibrating and thoroughly testing the system.  Because of the additional expense we chose to keep our base prices as low as possible for those that don’t need/want CTIS and offer a reconditioned system as an option.  CTIS is highly recommended for those operating regularly in mud, sand, snow or other on- and off-highway conditions.​

Do FMTV’s have air conditioning?
Our standard reconditioned FMTV’s are not equipped with air conditioning. We offer an optional 32,000 BTU (330 CFM) air conditioning system that was specially designed for the FMTV.​

What is the difference between the Michelin XZL and the GoodYear MV/T tires?
There are six generally available 395/85R20 military tires available in North America, all manufactured by Michelin and GoodYear.  Only two of them are used by United States Department of Defense or offered by us; they are the Michelin XZL and the GoodYear MV/T (G).  While each has more than adequate payload capacities, the Michelins have a 55 MPH speed rating while the GoodYear’s have a 81 MPH maximum speed rating (and thus come standard with high speed gear option).  A complete tire comparison chart can be found here.​

How do FMTV’s perform in extreme hot and cold environments?
First the hot…FMTV’s were designed without cab insulation (other than insulated center engine cowlings and insulated center floor mats) or air conditioning which make hot weather operation, well, hot!  Air conditioning is available as an option and DIY insulation kits are available here.  FMTV’s are equipped with a large cab heater as standard equipment.  While it does a good job of blowing heat, we recommend insulation for better cab temperature control.​

Then the cold…FMTV’s are not equipped with glow plugs for cold weather starting.  Instead, they are fitted with Ether start systems (that vary slightly from A0 to A1 models) that require the driver to push a dash-mounted button to inject an ether mix directly into the engine for starting.  The system is very reliable and contrary to belief, it is impossible for the system to cause any damage to the engine.

Acela Monterras are fully insulated and come standard with air conditioning.

​How do FMTV’s drive/handle in the snow and ice?
With proper tires and tire pressures, FMTV’s actually handle quite well in snow and ice conditions.  We highly recommend GoodYear MV/T tires (over Michelin) for winter driving.  We also have studded tires and siped tires available for additional traction.  CTIS is also incredibly helpful in snow and ice conditions.  Additionally, because A0 FMTV’s are not equipped with Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) we highly recommend siped or studded tires for regular winter traction.​

How do FMTV’s drive/handle in muddy/sandy/extreme off-road terrain?
FMTV’s have incredible off-road capabilities in virtually any challenging terrain conditions.  Central Tire Inflation Systems (CTIS) enhance FMTV off-road performance even more!

​Can I mount a plow on my FMTV?
Yes!  FMTV’s make incredible snow plow beasts…see videos here.  We have several plow and sander/de-ice options available here.  We recommend siping or studding tires for regular plow operations.​

What is the FMTV Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and available payload of an FMTV?
The military equivalent of a GVWR ranges from 22,770 lbs. up to 49,000 lbs.  (4×4 & 6×6).  Payloads are model dependent and vary greatly based on the original body removed and the body fitted.  Please inquire for more details based on your actual requirements.​

Do you have hay bale bed options?
Yes!  We offer several bale bed options.  Please inquire with our sales staff for more detailed information.​

What are the differences between FMTV model versions?
In a nutshell, A0 models were manufactured from 1993-1999, A1 models were manufactured from approximately 1999 and are still in production today.  There are numerous differences between the models.  For a detailed comparison, please see the FMTV A0-A1 comparison chart here.​

Do you provide a warranty?
Our mechanically reconditioned FMTV’s go through an exhaustive, well-vetted process to ensure the highest level of dependability, are fitted with over 50 new parts as standard and are sold as is with full computer diagnostics data (A1 models).  New option content such as air conditioning, plows, etc. carry the original manufacturer’s warranty.  Acela Monterras are delivered with a one-year bumper to bumper limited warranty.​

Are FMTV’s sold as new or used vehicles?
All reconditioned FMTV’s and Acela Monterras are sold as used vehicles.

​Do you offer a referral program?
Yes! We offer a $300 reward to any customer that refers a new customer or purchases additional trucks!​

What options do you offer?
We are pleased to offer many options for our reconditioned FMTV’s and Acela Monterras.  Please see our available FMTV options here and our available Acela Monterra options here.​

What are your most popular options?
Our most popular options are high speed gears, axle locker, air conditioning and conversion headlight switch.​

How much do FMTV’s and Acela Monterras cost?
We’ve made every effort to offer fair, reasonable and transparent pricing – truck base pricing runs on a sliding scale from $29,990 (4×4 FMTV) up to $105,000 (6×6 Monterra).  Please see pricing matrix here for full pricing.  Check out our financing options here.​What are your payment terms?
Our payment terms are COD for in-stock trucks and 50% deposit/50% on delivery for special order trucks.  Check out our financing options here.​

What am I getting for $30k that I can’t get at auction for half the price?
Peace of mind and time to enjoy your new truck!!  Take it from us, you have NO idea what you’re getting from surplus auctions or other online sites.  Most surplus buyers (military truck enthusiasts) enjoy spending months and even years diagnosing problems, researching and sourcing obsolete parts, making never-ending repairs, modifications and upgrades with tools not necessarily suited to the job, sometimes without the experience to perform much of the work at the high safety standards to which we adhere.  We are the world’s foremost experts on FMTV repair and refurbishment and FMTV’s are ALL we do, day in, day out.  We have been selling and supporting versions of the FMTV in the oil & gas and mining industries since 2008.  We inventory virtually every part on the FMTV, we have torn down and replaced or repaired every part and every system on the FMTV, and we can do so in a fraction of the time or cost of anyone else….let us pass the savings on to you!  Until you’ve been immersed in FMTV engineering and mechanics, have purchased, diagnosed, repaired, stripped, rebuilt and maintained hundreds of FMTV’s and know exactly how to properly vet surplus FMTV’s, you really don’t know what you’re getting at auction and will most likely inherit someone else’s very expensive, very time consuming and untimely problems.  Remember…you get what you pay for!  We have the experience, the tools, the skillset, the wherewithal, the attitude and the parts supply required to deliver the highest quality FMTV’s customized to your specific needs at a very reasonable price.​

Are FMTV’s sold with a title?
Yes, all reconditioned FMTV’s and Acela Monterras are sold with a clean Montana title, along with all other required paperwork to make the registration process as smooth as possible.​

Does the FMTV have a manual or automatic transmission?
All FMTV’s have an Allison automatic transmission with a push-button control pad.​

How does the FMTV drive system work?
The 4×4 LMTV operates in full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and provides 70% power to the rear axle and 30% power to the front axle in standard forward operating mode (“Drive”) and operates in gears 2 through 7.  When in “Mode” (off-road mode), power is split 50%/50% and 1st gear is made available.​

The 6×6 MTV also operates in full-time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and provides 70% power to the intermediate axle (NOT rear) and 30% power to the front axle in standard forward operating mode (“Drive”) and operates in gears 2 through 7.  When in “Mode” (off-road mode), power is split 50%/50%, 1st gear is made available and the rear axle is engaged to spin at the same speed as the intermediate axle.​

Are FMTV’s equipped with axle/differential lockers?
FMTV’s are offered with Detroit-style lockers as optional equipment.  Acela Monterras come standard with rear lockers.​

Where are you located?
We are located in Belgrade, Montana, minutes West of Bozeman, about an hour North of Yellowstone National Park, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

​Is Montana in Canada or the United States?
Montana is very much in the United States of America.  We are the fourth largest state in the nation, two thirds of the Rocky Mountains are located in Montana.  We love Montana and hope you come visit!  Click here for interesting Montana trivia.​

Will you perform upgrades to an FMTV that I already own or previously purchased from you?
We are not set up to provide upgrade services, however we do have an extensive parts inventory of OEM and upgrade parts, including high speed gears, differential lockers, axle seals, filters, CTIS components, etc. that can be accessed here.​​

Are you a licensed auto dealer?
Yes, we are a full-fledged Montana automobile dealer.​

What condition are your FMTV’s in?
Though there is certainly a range of conditions, in general, our mechanically reconditioned FMTV’s have very low mileage, zero to minimal rust, new engine and transmission fluids, new filters, tires at 75%+, brakes at 75%+ , rebuilt air over hydraulic pump, fully functioning cab air ride system and have undergone thorough bumper to bumper inspection, repair and upgrade processes that include the automatic replacement of over 50 parts and repairing every known issue.  Please see our FMTV inspection and new parts checklist for a complete listing here.  Acela Monterras are completely torn down and restored to better than factory-new condition with over 650 new parts.​

Where can I get my FMTV serviced or repaired?
Virtually any diesel repair shop can service your engine, transmission, transfer case, drivelines and related components with over the counter, commonly available parts.  Military-only parts (mostly cab and axle parts) can be easily sourced through us or one of our designated service centers.​

Where can I find detailed specifications on FMTV’s?
Please see our A0, A1 and Acela Monterra detailed specification sheets and side-by-side comparison charts chart here.​

Do you take trade-ins?
We do not take trade-ins.​

What model FMTV’s do you have in inventory?
We always stock a variety of 4×4 and 6×6 A0 and A1+ variants.  We also stock FMTV trailers.  Our inventory is constantly changing.  Please check our inventory page here for up to date inventory.​

Is it easy to register my FMTV in my home state?
All reconditioned FMTV’s and Acela Monterras are sold with a clean Montana title.  You should have no problem registering them in any state (other than California).  To be safe, we recommend that you contact your local motor vehicle licensing agency to ensure a problem-free registration process.​
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Can I register my FMTV in California?
Yes, kind of, sort of, maybe…  California Air Resources Board (CARB) has strictly regulated the registration of diesel powered vehicles on its highways.  Here is our [non-binding] interpretation of the regulations:  NO A0 FMTV (1999 emissions engines) are allowed.  A1 4×4 FMTV’s (2003 emissions engines) with Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR’s) under 26,001 lbs. GVWR are allowed for on-highway use until 1/1/2019.  No FMTV with a GVWR rating of over 26,001 lbs. is allowed regardless of year or engine.  These are our interpretations only – we do not guarantee accuracy.  All of this information is subject to change.  Official CARB diesel regulatory information can be found here https://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/onrdiesel/documents/multirule.pdf –   please check with CARB to ensure use of your FMTV for your specific needs.​

Where can I find downloadable sales and technical information?
All of our sales and technical documents can be viewed or downloaded here.​

Can you customize my FMTV?
While we offer a large number of options, upgrades and accessories, we are not set up to perform custom work.  We are always open to suggestions regarding new standard or option offerings – suggestions can be submitted here – do it!  Please see options availability and pricing documents here for currently available option content.

​How do I get my FMTV?  
We ship our customers’ trucks by flatbed every day.  We’re happy to make arrangements for door to door shipping. We can also ship outside of the U.S. – please contact us to discuss details.  If you prefer to pick up your FMTV in person, our shop is less than ten minutes from Bozeman-Yellowstone International Airport (BZN).  Taxi service and Uber are readily available.​

Where can I see photos of FMTV’s?
Please see our gallery here.  Please also feel free to submit photos of your FMTV’s for posting here.​Do you sell Humvees or other military trucks?
No, we specialize in the refurbishment and sale of FMTV’s only.  Doing so helps us focus on a single platform that benefits you from an expertise, capability and pricing standpoint.​

Do you provide on-site service?
We do not maintain a service facility.  FMTV’s can be serviced by virtually and diesel mechanic shop in the world.  We have several certified service centers that have significant experience working on the FMTV.​

How can I test drive an FMTV?
FMTV’s can be test driven by appointment at our facility in Belgrade, Montana.  A valid Driver’s License is required.​How can I learn more about FMTV’s?
We’ve strived to build and maintain our website to operate as a “go-to” source of all things FMTV.  With that said, there are FMTV owners that share a wide range of information and experiences on forum sites like Steel Soldiers and Expedition Portal.  Feel free to explore, ask any questions of us (that aren’t already answered on our site) and please make suggestions about what additional content you feel we should provide here.​

Can I get a trailer for my FMTV?
Yes, we sell FMTV trailers!  Please see our inventory page here for current inventory and trailer specifications here.​

Can FMTV’s be exported outside of the United States or Canada?
Generally speaking, yes.  FMTV’s and Acela Monterras can be exported but are subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  Please call so that we can provide a definitive answer based on your specific location and situation.  We are happy to help you arrange export and shipping.​

Can FMTV’s be imported to Canada?
Importation of vehicles over 15 years old into Canada is not regulated with regards to emissions or current safety standards (with the exception of a speedometer displaying KPH and daytime running lights (both available – please call), however, each province has total authority over licensing the vehicle (or not).  Please check with your local motor vehicle licensing agency to ensure that you will be able to register your FMTV once imported.​

What kind of fuel economy should I expect from my FMTV?
Another loaded question!  We commonly see fuel economies in the 8 – 10 MPG (29 – 23.5 L/100Km) range.  Mileage will vary wildly based on engine type, 4×4 vs. 6×6, load carried, gearing, terrain traveled, tire pressures, driver input, etc.