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In another lifetime, this desert tan 1942 Dodge WC53 Carryall had been a gravel pit mule, useful for hauling people and product all over the worksite. Owned by the same man for 62 years, the truck was purchased in 2008 and given a full resto-mod treatment to reclaim much of its former glory.
Now on the market again for collectors and enthusiasts to consider, the restored WC53 retains much of that original Spartan spirit that endeared it to the working man all those years ago, while receiving some significant upgrades to the chassis and drivetrain. Taking a look at what a sorry sight the Dodge used to be compared to how it looks now is fairly breathtaking.
The Carryall’s turbodiesel straight-six has been rebuilt by the engine experts at Hercules, and can cope with right-lane highway traffic with its 55 mph top speed. Manual fans will dig the New Process four-on-the-floor and dual range transfer case, while power disc brakes add a little more confidence in the driving performance of this vehicle.
Rusted to hell and back at the outset of the build, the Carryall has since made a full recovery.
Looks and styling are adequate, with a modest patina all over the truck that gives it that “used” appearance without seeming like a rust bucket covered in paint. The tan shade calls to mind the Dodge’s military roots, and works well with the black powder coated wheels from a Hummer H1.
Got to love those power takeoffs on these old trucks.
Inside, the fresh teak floorboards in the cargo area look fantastic out back, and the driver and passenger sit in comfort in rich, comfortable bucket seats. A modern instrument panel from Stewart Warner looks a little out of place amid the surrounding stock artifacts of the original truck, but if that’s the only sin you have to put up with on the Carryall, it’s indeed a small price to pay.
Speaking of price, the owner is asking $35,000 for this beaut’ of a vintage Dodge. Given the age, cleanliness, and nostalgia factor–who doesn’t love a power takeoff?–we think the WC53 has a lot going for it, and shouldn’t have any trouble getting sold. What do you think? Did the restorers go a little overboard in their work? Or was this the right direction to take the truck? Pop down below and leave a comment.
