Restored WM300 Power Wagon 251ci Inline 6cyl 4 Speed Winch

By this point, it's probably become second nature to type up www.RKMotors.com and scope some of the coolest classics on the planet. But, every once in a while, we like to get a little crazy and make sure you're still paying attention. Hey, a gearhead is a gearhead, right? We love ALL kinds of people movers -- the more unique, the better. Remember when we showcased a cool Crosley fire engine? How about when we decided to throw you the incredible, investment grade curve ball that was our Hallett Barron Drag Boat? Well, today we're featuring something that, while not very odd, is certainly cool. So, without further ado: professionally polished, fully sorted and tough as Clint Eastwood in a Spaghetti Western, here's one of the most legendary trucks ever created!

BATTLE READY BATTLE WAGON

Created at the dawn of World War II, the Power Wagon began life as an Army-exclusive carryall that was commonly referred to as the Battle Wagon. The truck's austere construction and unrivaled durability proved extremely useful when it came to transporting soldiers, towing equipment and all-terrain motoring. And eventually, circa 1946, Dodge decided to market its proven creation directly to civilians. The beneficiary of a professional, body-off restoration that took place in the not too distant past, this 1968 WM300 is a final-year Battle Wagon that's dressed and ready to cruise! During that freshening, the truck's solid body was sealed in a dashing combination of orange and black 2-stage. And presently, that retro chic shell creates a classy, wet-look profile that mixes searing glares with smooth reflections.

In a world where 'Mall Crawlers' and an ever-escalating truck war has inspired a rash of lift kits and Medium Duty pickup conversions, this Power Wagon's rugged authenticity is as jolting the ghost of Waylon Jennings at a Country Pop concert. That's right, all it takes is one glance at this beast to be enlightened to the reality that spawned the movement. At the front of the truck, an imperious bumper frames a large Braden winch, which fronts traditional headlights, Dietz parking lamps and a guarded grille that's centered beneath a buff “DODGE” script. Behind that grille, flat, military-spec fenders trace a “POWER WAGON” branded hood, which fronts clean glass that's cleared by polished wipers. Beneath that glass, textured steps balance a full-size spare tire behind extended mirrors and polished door handles. And at the back of the truck, a wood bed, featured in select Dodge workhorses all the way through 1985, shades pedestal taillights and a beefy Pintle Hook.

PROVEN POWER

Fold the hood and you'll find 251 cubic inches of trusty Chrysler 6-cylinder that appears to have been fully rebuilt during the recent restoration. At the top of that Deep Orange mill, an oiled air cleaner feeds oxygen in to a small Carter carburetor, which is seated on a web of cast manifolds. At the side of those manifolds, a factory cylinder head is wired to a traditional points distributor via pliable Belden Premium cables. Cooling comes courtesy of a tall radiator, which frames a traditional pulley fan and a rebuilt alternator. And the truck's simplistic engine compartment is clean and very well done, rounding out an otherwise impressive build.

PRESENCE MEETS PERFORMANCE

Crawling under this rig reveals a high-riding chassis that appears largely weather-free. Power meets the pavement through a reliable 4-speed transmission, which rides between sturdy Chrysler axles. That drivetrain rolls on a factory frame, which stretches Emerald Green paint over factory springs and heavy-duty shocks. Naturally, that frame is guided by manual steering, and stopped by manual drum brakes. Exhaust flows through short pipes and a throaty glasspack-style muffler. And at the corners of the floor, painted Split-Rim Wheels twist 10.50-16 directional 8-plys, sourced from Specialty Tires of America, around premium Selectro hubs.

SIMPLE IS GOOD

When you pop this pickup's doors, you'll find a crisp vinyl cockpit that's full of utilitarian charm. A wide bench seat complements small door panels, a tight headliner and contoured cab panels. A body-matched dash hangs fully rebuilt telemetry next to passenger padding. And the driver feels the road through a large steering wheel, a big shifter for the 4-speed and a small shifter for the 4-wheel drive.

Ultimate trail boss, or cool cruiser that's guaranteed to start a conversation? We'll let you decide. But, either way, there's no arguing the swagger and individuality of a first-generation Power Wagon. Well-built and tough enough to tackle any task, it's a cool hobby vehicle that's also a lot of fun. So, what are you waiting for? Step in and step up to the big leagues!

----------

SUMMARY

* The beneficiary of a detailed, frame-off restoration
* 251 cubic inch Chrysler 6-cylinder
* 4-speed manual transmission
* Black vinyl interior
* 16-inch Split-Rim Wheels / Specialty Tires of America 8-ply directional tires
* Braden winch
* Selectro hubs
* Wood bed
* Orange and black 2-stage paint