1946 Dodge WC Pickup
$14,500
Year
1946Make
DodgeModel
W-SeriesOdometer
300,000 (TMU)Engine
219 ci Flat-6Fuel Type
gasolineTransmission
manualDrivetrain
RWDVIN / Chassis #
81130147Seller
private partyLocation
Nicholasville, KYTitle Status
cleanLocation: Central Kentucky
Asking Price: $14,500 Or Best Offer (Professionally Appraised Value: $16,000)
VIN: 81130147
Owner: Ernest W. Adams
E-mail: ewadams@designersnotebook.com
Telephone: (650) 353-5024
Examination and test drives upon request.
Asking Price: $14,500 Or Best Offer (Professionally Appraised Value: $16,000)
VIN: 81130147
Owner: Ernest W. Adams
E-mail: ewadams@designersnotebook.com
Telephone: (650) 353-5024
Examination and test drives upon request.
Available now is a remarkably unique, post-war survivor: a 1946 Dodge WC pickup with an incredible history. This truck spent its working life outfitted as an archaeological survey and field vehicle in the rugged American Southwest. Rather than a pristine museum piece, this vehicle represents a beautifully functional, period-correct mid-century expedition rig.
Several thousand dollars have been recently invested to get the truck running and driving under its own power. It is an ideal turnkey candidate for a vintage overlanding project, historical display, or unique local driver.
Provenance & Historic Field Modifications
Unlike standard vintage trucks, this Dodge was intentionally modified for self-sufficiency during remote desert field research. These features give the truck an unmatched visual character and narrative:
- Powertrain: Period-correct flathead engine swap from a Plymouth (exact year unknown). Unsynchronized 4-speed transmission
- Field Utility Racks: Custom running board rack designed for two Jerry cans (one vintage metal can included).
- Dual Spares: Dedicated heavy-duty rack mounted in the bed holding two spare tires.
- Storage & Recovery: Custom wooden storage cabinets built directly over the right rear fender, alongside a historically mounted field shovel over the left rear fender.
- Expedition Canopy: A sturdy metal frame arches over the bed, holding a rubberized canvas cover to protect gear, field specimens, and contents from the elements.
- Safety Upgrades: Upgraded with functional turn signals and a second tail light for safer operations.
- High-Visibility Accents: Vintage "dazzle" paint scheme applied to the front and rear bumpers for extra visibility in the field.
- Bed Floor: Beautifully replaced with fresh, premium new oak planking.
- Interior: Freshly installed new cab headliner.
- Bonus Spare Parts: The truck bed comes loaded with a large assortment of miscellaneous spare parts collected by the previous owner. There is no formal inventory available, making it an incredible treasure trove of vintage components for the next owner.
- Optional Premium Tool Add-on: Also available is a vintage mechanic's toolbox loaded with high-value Snap-On socket wrenches and assorted tools. These are highly valuable, professional-grade tools that can be included with the sale for an additional negotiated fee, or used as a deal-sweetener for the right buyer.
Noted Weaknesses & Transparency
To ensure full transparency for long-distance buyers, the truck has two known items requiring attention before it can be considered fully road-worthy:
- Windshield Wipers: The original vacuum-driven wiper motors have rusted and are currently inoperable. The truck remains on its authentic 6-volt electrical system. Upgrading to a modern, bolt-in 6V electric wiper conversion kit (such as those from New Port Engineering) is a straightforward weekend project.
- The Frame: Reflecting its years of genuine off-road utility in the desert, the frame is slightly bent. It is noticeable when viewing the truck straight-on from the back, but it is not severe and does not impact its drivability. It can be enjoyed as-is for local use or straightened by a classic truck frame specialist if desired.
Summary & Terms
This truck was recently professionally appraised at $16,000. Due to the current owner paying ongoing storage fees, it is being offered at a competitive price to move it to its next custodian. This is an exceptional opportunity to own a vehicle with true soul, deep history, and excellent mechanical "bones." Serious inquiries only. No scammers, no low-ball offers. Buyer is responsible for coordinating vehicle shipping or trailering from its current storage location in Kentucky. Payment is by bank transfer only. Unfortunately there is a scam involving counterfeit cashier's checks, so I cannot accept them.
Contact Seller
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