1952 Dodge Power Wagon Fully Restored

1952 Dodge Power Wagon -- Description

1952 Dodge Power Wagon B-3-PW Fully Restored Largely Original Show-Quality Serial: 83928444 Year: 1952 Make: Dodge Model: B-3-PW-126 Engine: Correct 230cid Flathead Six Wheelbase: 126” Rating: 1 Ton Engineering Code: T137 Plant: Detroit, Michigan Build Number: 1944 Engine Number: D42246738: 1952 Dodge 6 230ci- Era Correct Transmission: 921198-2 NH-720- Original Front Diff: 926241-10- Original Rear Diff: 926241-12- Original Wheel Date Stamps: '51- Original for Model '52 Winch: M2-144 Braden- Original Starter: 1268125- Original Evolve Motors is pleased to present this 1952 Dodge Power Wagon! This is a truck we’re very excited to have in our inventory. As far as we’re concerned, this is about as cool as trucks get. With four-wheel-drive, a winch, and a tough-as-nails flathead six-cylinder, it’s pure utility with the added charm of the iconic vintage look. We acquired the truck from North Dakota, where it had been under long-term ownership. The gentleman who owned it had passed away, and his family, with no desire to keep it stored, decided to sell it. You do not find these trucks today with as much originality as this one. Exterior: The body tag/VIN matches the frame VIN stamp! The truck underwent a thorough mechanical and cosmetic restoration in 1992, and has remained in excellent condition since, having been garage-kept. Dark green paint is in great shape throughout, having clearly been done to a high standard; door panels were removed for paint, and door jambs, floors, and side-step all show in excellent condition. They went as far as refinishing the insides of the door panels, firewall, frame, etc. This was a full frame-off restoration. We note only minor scratches on the front fenders and passenger headlight mount, where the bonnet lid has made contact. These scratches have since been touched-up, but are visible upon close inspection. The body is totally straight, with absolutely no dents, dings, or scuffs. Glass and lights are all clear and crack-free, chrome is well-preserved, and the wood-lined bed is in great shape. There are no scars from cargo banging around in the bed, just the nice contrast of stained wood against the dark green paint. This truck is fitted with the early-series bed, which is identifiable by the four stake pocket design, which we much prefer to the later beds. We note the panel fitment to be excellent all the way around, from doors, to front-end, and bed. We do not see any patch work on panels, so we believe this to have been a largely rust free candidate when restored. Interior: The bare-bones presentation of the interior is just how we like it. Floors, dash, door panels, and pedal box are painted, and show very well. Gauges are correct and functional, with the speedometer center-mounted, aligned with the steering wheel. Odometer currently reads 62,700 miles. Dark brown vinyl bench seat is in great shape, as is the headliner, having been refinished during the restoration. Choke and light switches on the lower dash do show slight signs of wear, with the white lettering fading away. The split windshield can be swung out from the bottom to allow airflow into the cabin, which is a handy feature considering the truck’s lack of air conditioning. Looking at the dash and pillars, the interior paint work presents just as nice as the exterior. All placards remain in top condition offering instructions on the gear selection, 4WD, and winch. All dash features function properly, including the windshield wipers, choke, throttle adjust. The door handles require a little pressure when releasing the latch. Overall, the interior is very, very nice and has the slightest bit of patina. Under the Hood / Underbody: Engine is a correct ‘52 D42 230cid flathead 6-cylinder unit with a 23” head, though not original to this truck. While not the original motor this is an era-correct motor in the same configuration. Original block would start with T137. Transmission is correct, and is an after-type non-synchromesh unit, which is what was originally in this truck. The truck is still on a 6V charging system, with the correct and original starter still in place. The winch is the correct Braden M2-144 unit, and functions perfectly. The cable appears to have been replaced and is in top condition. During the 1992 restoration, the truck was also treated to a new fuel cell, clutch, and brakes, along with many other mechanical replacements and refurbishments. We recently rebuilt the master cylinder and carburetor and adjusted the brakes. The truck is in excellent running and driving condition. It runs, shifts, drives, and stops very well, with no tendencies or noises of concern. We do note some drying on the tires; however, these are tubed tires so it is not much of a concern for simple road use. There are no leaks, and absolutely no rust. The underbody is in excellent shape. Please give the photos a good look-through, as the condition of the truck truly speaks for itself. Running/Driving: Thanks in part to a thorough restoration and recent service, this truck is a fantastic runner and driver. It starts easily and smoke free. The idle control helps get the fluids warm as you push the choke back in. It idles nice and quiet and revs properly. The clutch is heavy and is free from slippage. Truck shifts well, though double-clutching the non-synchro transmission takes a bit of getting used to. Stopping is even and straight with the refurbished braking system. The winch controls and winch itself work like new. The transfer case levers are easy to engage and work as they should. Steering is “armstrong” power which only gets easier at speed. The ride, while rugged, is fun and enjoyable. This is definitely one of the coolest and rarest trucks you will ever drive! In summary, this ‘52 example is a beautifully restored and well-maintained example of the iconic Power Wagon. This show-ready truck is ready to be enjoyed, whether that be as a utility vehicle or as a collector’s item.