The M-74 Armored Recovery Vehicle (ARV) was based on the chassis of the M4A3 Sherman Tank. It replaced the M32 Tank Recovery Vehicle (also based on the Sherman Tank) which was incapable of handling the M47 Patton and M48 Patton tanks developed after World War II. The M74 Armored Recovery Vehicle was replaced by the M88 Hercules that was introduced in 1961. The front of the hull is fitted with an A-frame winch with a pull capacity of 45 tons and a lift capacity of 25 tons. The 47 ton vehicle was armed with a .50 cal. machine gun. It was powered by a Ford GAA 8 cyl. 450 hp engine that could drive it at 21 mph. Over 1000 of the M74 ARV were produced during 1954-1955 by Bowen-McLaughlin-York (later BMY, acquired by United Defense). Other M74 ARVs were converted from M32B1 Tank Recovery Vehicles at Rock Island Arsenal until 1958. Our M74 is awaiting it’s turn to begin the restoration process.  In the mean time, we are actively looking for a replacement front spade.