Cummins 4BT-Powered 1946 Dodge Power Wagon Crew Cab Hits BaT

A remarkable piece of American truck history—reborn for modern times—is now up for grabs. This 1946 Dodge Power Wagon WDX has been meticulously reimagined by Precision Power Wagons of Girard, Pennsylvania, who completed a full frame-off restoration and restomod in 2024. The result is a crew-cab powerhouse blending vintage styling with modern mechanicals, luxury craftsmanship, and rugged diesel torque.

Under the hood, the factory flathead six is long gone. In its place sits a freshly installed Cummins 3.9-liter 4BT turbodiesel inline-four sourced as a crate engine from Big Bear Engine Company. The intercooled 4BT, known for its legendary reliability and torque output, pairs with an NV4500 five-speed manual transmission, a popular heavy-duty gearbox used in Ram trucks and known for its durability and smooth gearing. Power is directed through a New Process 241 dual-range transfer case, feeding a Dana 60 front axle with Warn lockout hubs and a 14-bolt rear axle featuring a Detroit Locker differential and remanufactured Hillbilly Wizard axles. With 4.56:1 differential ratios, this Power Wagon has serious off-road credentials and low-end grunt to match.

Custom Chassis and Suspension – 

To accommodate its four-door configuration, the original frame was stretched approximately 15 inches and strengthened with boxed front sections. The result is a proportional, factory-like look that doesn’t compromise stance or function. A custom front crossmember, Precision Power Wagons’ crossover steering system, and updated leaf-spring front suspension work in conjunction with a four-link coilover rear suspension. The adjustable rear coilovers allow tuning of both ride height and damping, providing an ideal mix of comfort and capability.

For stopping power, the truck benefits from four-wheel disc brakes with power assist, and steering effort is eased with a modern power-steering conversion. It rolls on gray-finished 17-inch × 9-inch Pro Comp wheels wrapped in massive 40-inch × 13.5-inch Pro Comp Xtreme MT2 tires, giving it a commanding stance and serious trail presence.

Exterior Details – 

Finished in a classic two-tone scheme of green with black fenders and running boards, the Power Wagon’s body was sandblasted, epoxy-primed, and refinished to show quality. The grille and front bumper were refurbished, while an electric-over-hydraulic winch was cleanly integrated into the front bumper. Additional exterior highlights include turn signals, tow hooks, cowl lights, dual side mirrors, Power Wagon badging, a drop-down tailgate, reverse lights, a trailer-brake controller, and a receiver hitch.

One clever touch from Precision Power Wagons is the installation of Amp Research power-operated running boards mounted below the original-style fixed boards—maintaining classic looks while adding modern convenience. A backup camera is also integrated for safety when maneuvering this full-size beast.

The bed features wood-plank flooring with bright metal trim strips, blending durability with traditional craftsmanship.

Interior Craftsmanship – 

Inside, the Power Wagon takes a luxurious turn. The black and brown diamond-stitched leather upholstery covers both the power-adjustable front bucket seats and the full-width rear bench. The dashboard, painted body color, houses a set of Speedhut gauges including a 120-mph GPS speedometer, 8,000-rpm tachometer, and readouts for boost pressure, voltage, oil pressure, fuel level, coolant temperature, and exhaust-gas temperature. The digital odometer shows about 2,500 miles since the restoration, with roughly 200 of those miles added by the current owner.

Creature comforts abound: Vintage Air climate control, power windows by Specialty Power Windows, a Rockford Fosgate PMX-3 Bluetooth audio system with a 400-watt Punch amplifier, JL Audio front speakers, Focal K2 rear speakers, and a subwoofer under the rear seat deliver premium sound. Additional touches include armrests, black carpeting, a glovebox with USB power, and a Camden tuning wood shift knob.

Diesel Power and Utility – 

That Cummins 4BT isn’t just a novelty—it’s a serious upgrade for both reliability and usability. Supported by a custom intercooler, four-core aluminum radiator, and a powder-coated 26-gallon fuel tank built from 12-gauge baffled steel, the system is engineered for long-term dependability and real-world performance.

Balanced custom driveshafts help deliver smooth power delivery to all four wheels, while the drivetrain components are robust enough for decades of use.

Offered on BringATrailer – 

Now available on BringATrailer.com, this one-off Power Wagon represents the perfect blend of heritage and modern craftsmanship. Backed by documentation and a detailed build sheet from Precision Power Wagons, it’s offered on dealer consignment with a Washington title that lists the model year as 1948.

Bidding closes on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 2:57 p.m. EDT. For collectors or enthusiasts who appreciate classic Dodge trucks reimagined for modern roads, this Cummins-powered crew cab is as bold and capable as they come—a true American icon reborn.

Custom 4BT Cummins-Powered 1946 Dodge Power Wagon Image Gallery: