Thanks for all of the information. It is a bit overwhelming and I'm trying to get educated quickly. I've been spending a fair amount of time on the web and have some literature and service manuals too.

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PwrWgnDrvr
Tranny in a 61 is a NP420, not 435, so both first and second are non-synchro gears. U have the somewhat scarce single rear wheel hubs on the back and looks like no lockout hubs on the front. If so, its a real bad idea to be driving it around in full time 4wd!

Interesting. So far from everything I've found this should have a NP435 and NP201. From my limited understanding it's only 4WD if I shift from 2WD to 4WD? It also has a Hi/Neutral/Low shifter. Keep both pushed forward and you're in High gear and 2WD.

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PwrWgnDrvr
U will most likely need to have brake shoes re-lined as replacements are probably not available. Front drums are absolutely unavailable, have been for 30 yrs, so do not ever let the shoes wear out and score the drums. Drag link ends wear out and make steering super sloppy - they are also unavailable, so get used to the wild ride, or pay big bucks for a custom made one. The steering gear box is adjustable, until worn too far. It is also a scarce box and unavailable.
Nice looking truck!

Wow thanks for the heads up. I have absolutely zero experience with relining shoes but will investigate locally. Are old shoes available out there that I could send off to have a spare set? As to the steering I guess I'll need to investigate to see what the options are. Perhaps again there are parts donors available for drag link ends or we could find some talented machinist to make some?

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PwrWgnDrvr
Ive been driving a 62 W300 for 30 yrs, have put over 200,000 miles on it and have a lived the hassles of scrounging parts for it. /quote]

Very impressive indeed! Nice to know these trucks can actually be used and kept on the road.