Christopher Anicito’s 1990 AM General M998 HMMWV is an attention-grabber that is impossible to ignore. Nearly every component has been upgraded, and the list includes a potent turbodiesel engine, massive 42-inch tires, and a rear-steer conversion.
Military Experience Inspired The Build
Christopher is a retired military reservist and paramedic who now serves in law enforcement. His appreciation for Humvees began during his military service. “I drove them in the military and always liked their design,” he says. He goes on to say, “This Humvee is a patriotic build celebrating my time in the military and the work I have done in the civil services.”
He purchased the ex-miltary Humvee at auction in 2020 and it was mostly stock. “COVID was a miserable time, and I wanted to work on a project that would brighten the mood around the house,” Christopher explains.
A Turbocharged 6.5 Detroit Diesel Built For More Power
Christopher made substantial improvements to the 6.5-liter turbocharged Detroit Diesel that not only help create more power but also improve its reliability.
Leading the modifications is a BMI Commander 6500 turbo kit that is said to increase horsepower by 50 to 65 percent while adding as much as 120 pound-feet of torque. Supporting the additional boost are a Leroy Diesel injection pump, upgraded injectors, and a Paradox By Design Cooling Upgrade System that addresses the cooling imbalance known to plague these engines and cause a loss of performance and reliability.
Backing the diesel is the factory TH400 three-speed automatic transmission and NP218 two-speed transfer case.
Heavy-Duty Drivetrain Handles The Extra Torque
Building additional horsepower only matters if the drivetrain can withstand it. So, Christopher upgraded the Humvee’s portal axles with 10,000-pound-rated half-shafts in place of the factory 7,500-pound units. He also added Mountain Machine Billet Geared Hub Covers.
Perhaps the most unique drivetrain modification is the Bulletproof Rear Steer Humvee Self Centering Rear Steer Kit. Operated by a simple two-button controller, the system dramatically tightens the Humvee’s turning radius, thus making the rig even more capable on tight trails.
Lifted Five Inches And Rolling On 42s
To create clearance for the oversized tires, Christopher installed a Rubber Duck 4×4 Stage 3 lift kit combined with springs from Midwest Military Equipment. Custom Radflo shocks keep the suspension under control. Enormous 42×13.50R20LT Mickey Thompson Baja Boss tires are mounted on 9.5-inch-wide Black Rhino Abrams wheels.
Exterior Upgrades Focus On Function
The Humvee’s exterior modifications serve a purpose beyond appearance. A Liquid Iron Industries custom winch bumper and brush guard houses a Mile Marker SEC 15 winch, while a HummerCore front light bar mount supports an LED light bar for nighttime visibility. Additional upgrades include a Midwest Military Equipment hood scoop, Jeremy Johnson rock sliders, Blue Ox soft top and doors, and a custom paint job.
Another practical addition is the Rubber Duck 4×4 Slantbac Pac-Rac. The rack carries a full-size spare tire, LED lighting, a military Pioneer Kit, Hi-Lift Jack, a Viair air compressor, multiple fluid containers, and additional trail equipment while keeping everything organized and easily accessible.
Interior Built Around Communication And Comfort
Inside, Christopher added a custom military radio console that houses both CB and amateur radios, while switch panels and Speedhut gauges allow him to control and monitor systems. Entertainment comes from a 2,000-watt sound system using JL, Clarion, Kicker, and Rockford Fosgate components.
Furthermore, the interior has Smittybilt Jeep-application seats wrapped in Seat Covers Unlimited Neo-Sport quilted covers. It’s also worth noting that the Humvee retains its original 24-volt electrical system, so Christopher installed voltage regulators to safely operate 12-volt accessories.
Integral Part Of The Build
We photographed Christopher’s Humvee at the 2026 Summer 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals, where the unique diesel-powered build drew crowds throughout the event.
Christopher credits much of the project’s success to those who helped along the way. “I have to thank my wife for all her help and support. Also, a huge thank you to Liquid Iron Industries in Berlin, New Jersey, which saw my vision and helped make it a reality. From the front winch bumper to the rear steering system, they were an integral part of the build.”
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