Dodge WC Pickup

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Launched in 1939, the Dodge WC range of commercials had classic art deco looks with a curved ‘coffin’ nose and free-standing headlamps in bullet-shaped pods. Powered by a range of six-cylinder engines and available in numerous wheelbase lengths, the sturdy WC really came into its own during the war years when over a quarter-of-a-million saw service in roles as diverse as ambulances, signals trucks and weapons carriers.

Although it looks pretty standard on the outside, this 1941 WC pickup is actually a lot more modern than it seems. The build commenced in 2012 when a previous owner discovered the Dodge slumbering away in the hot Arizona sunshine. Impressed by the rust-free condition of the truck, he shipped it back to Florida where it received the full resto-mod treatment to turn it into an everyday usable classic, the process being documented in build notes and photos on file.

After much research, a modern low mileage Dodge Durango SUV which had been involved a rollover accident was purchased and the bodywork removed. The body from the WC was then expertly repainted in period-correct Stone beige/Tampico beige before being transplanted onto the Durango platform, the load area being lined in African Kiat hardwood. A freshly rebuilt 318ci (5.2-litre) V8 was slotted in, mated to a rebuilt 44RE automatic transmission connected via custom balanced driveshaft to the rebuilt Durango rear end with 2.42 final drive for relaxed highway cruising and fresh front disc/rear drum braking components.

The truck was completely rewired using the wiring harness and fuse system from the Durango, all neatly hidden under the passenger seat. A particularly clever touch are the electric windows – although they look wind-up, the handles are actually switches and a light press powers them quickly up or down. The original vertical Motorola radio is also still in place but cleverly wired up to a modern radio hidden under the dash. Air conditioning has also been discreetly fitted in the glove box and a new compressor installed under the bonnet but this still needs final plumbing in to get it working. The custom seats were adapted from those on the Durango second row, cut down and recovered in a saddle-like leather with door panels to match.

Imported to the UK earlier this year, the truck has been DVLA inspected and issued with a V5C which classes it as a Historic Vehicle. Since the build was completed it has only covered 5,000 miles and remains in sparkling condition throughout. If you want a head-turning classic pickup that drives like a much newer vehicle, this is the truck for you.