Hi Augusto,
thanks for your reply.
Great if the two of you have the flexibility to be active anywhere globally in your respective professions.
There are 2 users in this forum with 8x8 KAT 1 and 8m living boxes. Petra is about to build out her 8x8 and another user (Andreas) has a 8x8 with the former
KTM racing box mounted.
I just finished to write up all the wheelbases of the different models of special purpose vehicles of MAN (the X range) in a different
thread.
To keep cost and functionality somehow in balance, in effect only 5 series of the many different vehicles might be considered for further investigation as a base for such a vehicle. Still, the 12m size aspiration will be a challenge in itself - have you thought about a fifth-wheeler configuration? Sam's 6x6 with trailer is such a great looking combination.
Here and [urlhttps://
www.kat-forum.de/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=2 ... 175#p38046]here[/url]
1) MAN KAT1 series (1977-1982): The orginal. Available in different wheelbases. Best supply of "affordable" spare parts. Still 30% of original pieces manufactured in military service today. Engine: Deutz 413 Series
2) MAN KAT A1 series (1987-1993): Successor to the KAT 1 series, much smaller numbers had been built (approx 1160 vs. 8400). Many parts are similar, but engine and drivers cabin are different. Engine: Deutz 513 Series (or in much smaller numbers with MAN D2866 engines). Lots of 8x8 in normal width and 2900mm sold and on the private market
3) MAN KAT A1.1 (1996-2003). Switch to MAN watercooled engines (D2866), almost only 6x6 sold from military users, 8x8 A1.1 are still very rare, as they are still used in military services
4) The US MAN KAT II (MAN type 550). About 500-600 had been built in the mid-90's. 8x8, but quite short wheelbase (opposing your objective of a long cabin). Engine: MAN V10 normal aspirated
5) Austrian ÖAF S-LKW: About 500 built in mid-80's. Only available in 6x6 formula. Watercooled MAN Engine
You mentioned a 6x6 with defective suspension. If this truck is one of the 12 trucks built with hydraulic suspension (HEPLEX), then your decision not to buy was probaby the right one (unless you are an expert in hydraulics). They had been offered since a while, but seemingly, nobody is able to fix the suspension. (or is willing to afford the exercise)
One alternative for you to consider is the list of KAT 1 6x6 bridge transporters. About 300 of those had been build, their wheelbase is 900mm longer than standard (4700mm vs. 3800mm) and might offer you a quite long frame for getting a long cabin on top of it. They seems to be still available with dealers.
Here are some pictures
cheers,
Andy