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Chenowth Aluminum Military Rail Buggy (MTADS Tow Vehicle) 1 of 3 Built, 25+ Pic

Estimated price for orientation: 24 999 $

Category: Dune Buggies and Sand Rails
Class:











Description
Condition: Used  


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This Multi-Sensor Towed Array Detection System (MTADS) Tow Vehicle was custom made by Chenowth Racing in El Cajon California (in Partnership with Blackhawk Geometrics - Golden, Colorado) for the Naval Research Laboratory and the Department of Defense.  There are only 3 of these know in existence, from my research this is #3.  The MTADS tow vehicle is a low magnetic signature vehicle that is used to tow linear arrays of magnetic and electromagnetic (EM) sensors to conduct surveys of large-areas to detect buried unexploded ordnance (UXO).  The MTADS Tow Vehicle is a custom-built off-road vehicle, specifically modified to have an extremely low magnetic self-signature. Most ferrous components have been removed from the body, drive train, and engine, and replaced by nonferrous alloys.  The construction of this buggy is mainly aluminum and stainless steel and other materials that would have the smallest ferrous footprint as to not to affect the metal detector being towed.  The vehicle is powered by a modified Volkswagen aluminum engine.  I do not know if this vehicle was used overseas or as just a research vehicle; either way a lot of time and money ($83,478) went into this vehicle.  There is just a little over 800hrs of use; this buggy has not been restored all the graphics are original although, at some point in time someone has added the lights and blinkers to make it legal for street use.  This buggy is very light weight, super strong (Full Roll Cage) and it will never rust.  This chassis and body are all custom and are not made from VW parts.  This is not a shortened VW pan, it's all 1.5" tubing and aluminum custom made panels.  The engine is a 1600 Single Port engine with full flow case (aluminum), 30-PICT-1 carb, external oil filter, and a fan cooled oil cooler.  The electronics are 12 Volt, the exhaust is completely custom and a real work of art.  The motor runs extremely smooth and it sounds amazing.  The transmission is custom built VW IRS with an extremely low gear ratio; 4th  gear has been locked out as they did not wanting some one  racing around in it  .  This could be changed if you wanted but I am not doing it.  There is a lot of information including the original owners manual with the cost to build of $83,478.

This is your chance to own a very rare vehicle that would be a great piece to add to your collection.  This vehicle appeals to anyone looking for a unique one of a kind item; whether you're a military collector, VW collector, prepper or a car collector this is sure to be a standout piece.  

On Jul-26-16 at 11:05:09 PDT, seller added the following information: