Studebaker Weasel M29C

Total Bids Placed:

Condition

In need of full restoration but reasonably complete including floats

History

The idea for the M29 Weasel came from the work of British inventor Geoffrey Pyke in support of his proposals to attack Axis forces and industrial installations in Norway. Pyke’s plan to hamper the German nuclear weapons program became Project Plough for which he proposed a fast light mechanized device that would transport small groups of commando troops of the 1st Special Service Force across snow. It would need to be air transportable, capable of being dropped by parachute and to carry arms, explosives and minimal resupply stocks.
M29C Water Weasel
The M29C was the main variant of the Weasel. The M29 was already partly amphibious, able to traverse shallow and calm waters such as rivers and streams, but could not operate in rough, sea like waters. The M29C amended this issue, with the addition of buoyancy aids in the rear of the hull as well as two rudders. Removable pontoons were also added to the front and rear and changes were made to the treads of the track links to allow it to propel itself in water, although it was very slow. This still didn’t make the M29 capable of seaborne amphibious landings, but allowed to be more stable in deeper or slightly rougher inland waters.
The M29C had a front engine, rear wheel drive system, 20-inch tracks And performed exeptional in sandy, muddy, and desert terrains, including towing loads over terrain wheeled vehicles could not negotiate. In the U.S. Marine invasions of Iwo Jima and Okinawa it proved itself invaluable.
As it was amphibious and could cross terrain too soft for most other vehicles, it was used widely in both Italy and on the Western Front. In active service in Europe, Weasels were used to supply frontline troops over difficult ground when wheeled vehicles were immobilized. It went ashore on Normandy, it was with the U.S. Army during the breakthrough at St. Lo, the Battle of the Bulge and in the mud of the Roer and the Rhine. The M29 was primarily a cargo carrier, but was also used as a command vehicle, radio platform, and signal line layer. U.S. soldiers soon realized the Weasel could also be used as an all-terrain ambulance, as it could get to places not even Jeeps could. Another use was for crossing minefields, as its ground pressure was often too low to set off anti-tank mines.
After the war many surplus M29s were sold to allied countries (Norway, Sweden, France, etc). Some M29C and M29 survived to serve in Korea, supplementing 1/4 ton 4×4 cargo vehicles in rough conditions. They served in Arctic and cold weather operations until retired in 1958. Large numbers of retired Weasels were sold off in the 1950s to civilians and municipal organizations. For example, 25 Weasels were loaned for VIII Olympic Winter Games in 1960. Why buy an amphibious vehicle?
Amphibious vehicles captivate collectors due to their rarity, uniqueness, and historical significance. These distinctive vehicles, capable of seamlessly transitioning between land and water, represent a niche segment in automotive and military history. Collectors are drawn to their unconventional design and engineering, appreciating the innovative solutions required for dual-terrain functionality. Often associated with military applications or iconic moments in transportation evolution, these vehicles become prized additions to collections, showcasing technological advancements and adaptive capabilities. The scarcity of amphibious models contributes to their allure, with enthusiasts relishing the opportunity to own a piece of unconventional automotive heritage. Their dual-purpose nature and ability to evoke a sense of adventure also appeal to collectors seeking distinctive and conversation-starting additions to their portfolios. In the world of collectibles, amphibious vehicles stand out as not just mechanical artifacts but as symbols of ingenuity, versatility, and a bygone era of exploration. The thrill of driving into water, becoming afloat, and then sail off from the shore is a feeling that cannot be described. It needs to be felt!

Technical

Manufacturer Studebaker
Model M29C
Manufacturing date 1945
Serial number
Length 15 ft 9 in (4,80 m)
Width 5 ft 6 in (1,68 m)
Height (top up) 5 ft 11 in (1,80 m)
Height (top down) 4ft 3 in (1,30 m)
Weight 3.800 lb (1.700 kg)
Max. speed (land) 36 mph (58 km/h)
Max. speed (water) 4 mph (6 km/h)
Operational range 165 mi (266 km)
Main armament n/a
Secondary armamant n/a
Engine Studebaker Model 6- 170 Champion 6 cylinder, 70hp
Crew 4 (1 driver, 3 passengers)
Production numbers Nearly 8.000 M29C versions

Note to Buyers

NOTE TO BUYERS

LOCATION

The location of any Lot is indicated with the specific lot number. Specific address details will be provided upon request and to the successful bidder / Buyer.

INSPECTION(S)/ VIEWING DAYS

Inspections (viewing days) are open on:
– USA: Thursday March 14, Friday April 5, Saturday 6 and Friday April 19 2024

– The Netherlands: Saturday April 13 (Nederweert)

Given the fact that these are often very special items whose condition, no matter how hard we try, cannot always be described 100% completely, we really recommend that you make use of this.

IMPORTANT DATES

– Campaign Start: March 1^st 2024,

– Release Website and brochure (all items listed and categorized): March 20 2024,

– Bidding Open: Friday April 19 2024 00:00 CET (Dutch American Friendship Day),

– Bidding Ends:

Saturday April 20 2024 (Vehicles)

Saturday May 11 2024 (Parts & Accessories)

Times:             Amsterdam NL (CET): 06:00 PM (18:00)

London: 05:00 PM (17:00)

New York USA: 12:00 AM (12:00)

Sydney AUS: 04:00 AM (04:00) next day

BUYER’S PREMIUM

On all lots a buyer’s premium of 16,5% of the hammer price is charged. Over this buyer’s premium a 21% sales tax (VAT) will be applicable.

PARTS, ACCESSOIRIES & MILITARIA

The batches of spare parts, various accessories and militaria are sold in as-is condition and delivered without any guarantee of functioning.

VEHICLES & VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT

Cars, motorcycles, trucks, cannons or howitzers, armored vehicles, and tanks are sold in as-is condition, with no technical guarantee and guarantee of authenticity and with or without registration.

Arms & weapons

The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed – has been supplied by the Buyer in full.

If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only!

MARGIN/ VAT

However, for most of the lots 21% sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be not applicable, it might be that in some specific cases sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be charged. In such a case this will be specifically specified in the lot description. For all other lots the margin scheme will be applicable. For more info see our General Conditions of Sale Article 9 on our website; www.tracksandtrade.com

COLLECTION

Due to our participation in the commemorations of D-DAY in Normandy France collection of all lots is scheduled for the period Monday June 24 till Friday July 5 2024. However, for buyers who want to participate with their purchased lot at the 80^th Anniversary Commemorations in Normandy this can of course be deviated from. In such a case please let us know soonest.
import and export

Depending on the destination and content of the Lot the Buyer shall obtain an International Import Certificate / End User Certificate. Some of the items listed in the auction may require special licenses or permits or existing documents must be prepared for export. If this is relevant, Tracks & Trade will take care of this. The applicable costs will be charged to the successful bidder. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. No item will be allowed to be collected without 100% of all legal requirements being fulfilled.

Delivery

Removal of lots must be completed by June 28 2024 after full payment and 100% coverage of all legal requirements. No storage fees will be applicable until that date.

Shipping and packing costs and special costs that arise for loading special items, such as crane costs or costs for hiring special equipment etc., will be charged to the Buyer on the basis of actual costs + a surcharge of 10%. Naturally, you can count on us when it comes to the shipment of your purchases. We are happy to take care of that!

STORAGE

Lots not picked up by Buyers before June 28 2024 will be returned to secure storage at Buyer’s expense. In this case storage fees will be applied as follows:
– Parts & accessories: € 25,- / lot / week.

– Cars and motorcycles: € 50,- / lot / week.

– Armored vehicles, tanks, cannons etc. € 75,- / lot / week.

Listed storage fees excluding 21% VAT.

NOTE
If you have any specific questions, please contact us either by telephone (+31 6 518 22 502) or E-mail ([email protected]). We are happy to help and support you through the entire process. We will do our utmost to please and comfort you.
So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

GENERAL CONDITIONS

All information and transactions are subject to the general terms and conditions (Version 2.0 dated 29-04-2022). For more detailed information visit our website or click here.