Before they eventually merged with Nash-Kelvinator to form AMC, trucks were certainly no strangers to the Hudson Motor Car Company, but most fans seem to agree that the company saved the best for last. Some of their earlier trucks were manufactured under different brands, such as Dover and Essex, but the final “Big Boy” wore a Hudson name tag. This 1946 model here on eBay was near the end of the run, as production ceased in 1947, and this one appears to be a capable driver already. However, some cosmetic attention could turn this pickup into a real beauty. This uncommon truck is located in Crookston, Minnesota, with a current bid of $4,250, which is understandably still short of the reserve.
The Big Boy didn’t enter the marketplace until 1939, initially offering both 1/2 and 3/4 ton capacities, with the 3/4 becoming standard on the post-war Series 58, like this one. While the bed here is no stranger to hauling cargo over the years, this truck is said to have been stored inside its entire life, and very little rust seems to be present on the beautifully shaped body. Some dents and scratches will need to be repaired before this one’s ready for a fresh coat of black paint, but a skilled bodyman will likely be able to get most of the existing panels smoothed out nicely.
The original engine here would have been a 212 cubic-inch inline-6, part of the Hudson “Super Six” line, providing just over 100 horsepower. It’s no longer present, and in the bay now is a 235 I-6 of the Chevrolet variety. The seller describes it as fun running and driving, and while it would be preferable to be powered by the correct component, my hunch is that there probably aren’t too many remaining that aren’t already in use. There’s also a 3-speed manual transmission, with a steering-column shifter inside.
No specifics are mentioned regarding the interior, but the dash appears to be mostly original and pretty much complete. It’s also a positive to see that the floors seem fairly sturdy, and several photos from the underside are provided, which appear to show a solid platform and frame rails. With the stylish body lines of the Big Boy, this would be one stunning pickup after some cosmetic work and a new paint job, plus it’s rare, as supposedly fewer than 2,000 were produced during this next-to-last model year. Any thoughts on this 1946 Hudson truck, or ideas where the owner may have set his reserve?
I completely agree with Mike. These are absolutely elegant, beautifully styled. Especially in a nice dark color to highlight the body lines. If you can’t find a Hudson super six, I guess you’re hunting for some sort of substitute. It would be nice to see this one restored and back on the road. I enjoyed your write up Mike, and the truck. Thank you!!!
It’s the engine swap holding this one back. The Hudson club [HET CLUB] has lots of 212 super six engines around. Put it back original!!
Any truth that they were mainly manufactured for dealership use.
It’s hard to pick a favorite, because I love these early Ranchero/Elco car/trucks, but here’s a Stude Express from a BF listing from 10 years ago that is pretty cool too.
Didn’t have any luck unloading it a couple of weeks ago, let’s talk it up a little and run ‘er through again!
Maybe they’ll have better luck this time, but they probably should have taken the 10k when the hammer fell the last time.
I thought I recalled this passing through here not too long ago. You too, I take it.
Actually,,,Hudson no longer called the pickup “Big Boy” after the war. The ’46 and ’47s were merely called “Super Six Pickups”. I read they only sold 1900 in 1947,the last year. Again, they were costly. The 1946 cost almost $1532 new, almost $500 more than a Ford. Like all car/pickups, they did neither job well, and a slim market everytime they were offered. I’d have to think there are enough Hudson flatties still around, the cheese on this one would be that it would be original. It’s an outstanding find.
Wish I had the room… would like fine next to my ’49 step-down.
I’ve gone years without seeing one of these for sale, and now we’ve had a few of these show up just this year on BF. What’s going on, are the owners heading for the exit ramp? (I’m not on the exit ramp yet, I’m just in the far right hand lane that says “Exit Only This Lane.”)
Big truck 235? It has the standard 216 valve cover.
I counted 5 wires. It’s a Chevy I-5. Had an 05 Colorado with the I-5.
Ran on 4 cylinders until needed, then no 5 kicked in.
It’s a Chevy 235. It is obviously vintage, and doesn’t look anything like a modern Colorado/Canyon engine. The wire for the front (6th) plug is obscured by a bracket. If you look closely you can see the wire.
A very stylish low number truck to have in any collection. It looks like it could be an excellent candidate for a medium dollar refurbishment for local shows cruise in’s, and C&C events. A real conversation starter and trophy winner!!!! Also a decent basis for a top dollar ($$$$$) concourse quality restoration. Although I do not think I would swap my Diamond T for it??
If only all BF postings could be this good.