Ep 1. 1986 Chevy Alabama Army Truck: Transmission & Brake Upgrades!

In the first episode of season 4 of Dirt Every Day, viewers are introduced to a 1986 Chevy Alabama Army Truck that is in need of some serious upgrades to its transmission and brakes. Host Fred Williams takes on the task of transforming this vintage military vehicle into a more reliable and capable off-roader.

The episode opens with Williams introducing the truck and giving viewers a brief history of its previous use in the military. He then takes the truck out for a spin to demonstrate some of its current issues, including trouble shifting gears and poor braking performance. As he navigates the rough terrain, it's clear that some serious upgrades are in order.

Williams begins the process by removing the old transmission and replacing it with a new five-speed manual transmission that will provide smoother shifting and better control both on and off the road. This involves cutting a hole in the floor of the truck to make room for the new transmission, which can be a tricky process. However, Williams is up to the challenge and creates a clean, professional-looking installation.

Next, it's time to address the truck's braking system, which is currently inadequate for the vehicle's weight and size. Williams decides to swap out the old drum brakes for new disc brakes, which will provide better stopping power and improved performance in the mud and dirt. He goes step-by-step through the process of installing the new brakes, which involves a bit of trial and error but ultimately results in a solid upgrade.

Throughout the episode, Williams also takes time to demonstrate some basic off-roading skills and techniques, such as how to navigate rough terrain and how to recover a stuck vehicle using a winch. These segments add a nice touch of practical knowledge to the episode and make it more than just a simple vehicle upgrade.

Overall, the episode is an entertaining and informative look at the process of upgrading a vintage military vehicle for off-roading use. Williams is a charismatic host who knows his way around a garage, and he keeps the episode moving along at a brisk pace. Whether you're a fan of military vehicles or just enjoy watching skilled mechanics at work, this episode is a must-see.