It’s time for reader Bruce G to let go of his ’48 Dodge pickup. He bought it with plans to restore it, but he’s realized he’s just never going to get to it. At this point, it’s still solid enough to be worth restoring, but he’s worried if it sits much longer, it won’t be. It was still running and driving earlier this year, but the gas tank needs work, so it isn’t running at this point. Thankfully, getting a tank flushed out and repaired isn’t a huge task. These B1s are hard to come by these days and while Bruce’s rig needs work, it looks like it has good bones. If you’d love to give this little Dodge a new home, be sure to send Bruce an email here! He’s asking $6k and the truck is located in Burnsville, North Carolina.
From Bruce – Original engine, 6 volt ignition. I have title and registration. Was on the road in 2016, but currently not running because gas tank needs repair. Otherwise in running condition. Starter rebuilt in 2015.
Frame solid, body intact, but some rust, mostly around edges of body panels. Bed is a bit loose, has an old piece of plywood on floor that needs replacing. Tailgate works but has quite a bit of rust. Lights, turn signals, wipers work. Floor of cab has some rust and small holes. Seat needs refinishing. Most gauges do not work. Brakes are good.
This truck lived most of its life on the west coast, away from salted roads. I intended to restore it myself but do not have the time or money, so I want to find a good home for it while it is still restorable. This is a great old truck, hard to find this model anymore in restorable condition.
I want to thank Bruce for giving us the chance to find a new home for his truck! I really love the styling of these rigs, but sadly it’s just too far away for me. So do you any of you have fond memories of the B1, if so please share!
- VIN: T1421288
- Title Status: Clear
- Burnsville, North Carolina
When I was young (about 15) my Ol man gave me the front clip, cab and tailgate of a 48 Dodge, but it was a 5 window. No frame or running gear but the body was great. Real good stainless too. About two years later I found another three window that was super rough. At the time I was driving a 78 Volare. I took a few measurements and ended up clipping the 48 frame from the rough one with the Volare torsion bar front end then used all the good sheet metal. Went together perfectly. Built a 340 and 727 for it. Drove and looked awesome. I didn’t paint it either so it had that look. Unfortunately being a young idiot I ran into some legal problems and sold it. I see these ones come up and want to do it again. Maybe if one comes available closer to me….
My dad had a Fargo pickup which was the Canadian version of this truck. When I was born he had to sell it because I was #2 son and there wasn’t enough room for us and my parents in the cab. He ended up with a 1950 Ford deluxe 4 door. This would be a great project truck you can’t kill those old flat head engine, not alot of power but plenty of torque. I envy the guy that gets this truck.
I would leave the 6volt system as it is. Add a Pertronix pointless ignition and a 7 volt alternator. Will charge at idle and be 100% reliable.
excellent advice, Busyditch! i agree 100%.
I still have photos saved of a ’48 that I tried to buy for months that slipped away from me.
Great trucks!
Like to know who made the play house he’s hauling in the second pic. Very impressive build and detail! Almost looks real!
It IS a real house, in the background.
But it would be a cool miniature for sure.
Looks like it’s being hauled in the back of the truck cool photo. Probably not even done on purpose.
Trade you a 1967 VW on a 1967 Jeep frame with 231 v6 3 speed 4 wheel driver for it
This is a fun ride.
This truck is awesome. I will soon be in the market for an older truck. If I had the funds now I’d be all over this.