A well-preserved piece of American automotive history is hitting the auction block: a 1953 Dodge Power Wagon B-4-PW is being auctioned on BringATrailer.com. With its classic rugged design and recent refurbishment history, this Power Wagon stands as a testament to Dodge’s legendary durability and off-road capability.
Refurbishment and Provenance –
This Power Wagon underwent a restoration under previous ownership around 2004, which included a fresh repaint in a bold yellow with contrasting black running boards. The current owner acquired it out of Montana in 2012, and it has since been carefully maintained, including the recent replacement of its tires. It’s offered with a Wyoming title that notes the vehicle is “over ten years old,” and the auction includes the original owner’s manual.
Exterior Features and Utility –
This Power Wagon is repainted in vibrant yellow and features classic styling elements, such as a tilt-out windshield, cowl lights, and a driver-side mirror. It also boasts practical features like a Braden MU-2 winch, stamped with a 1953 manufacture date, and a tow ball at the rear. The bed retains a period-correct appearance with wood flooring planks separated by yellow body-color trim strips and yellow Speedliner bedliner material on the inner bed sides for added durability.
Interior Details and Comfort –
Inside, the cab has a bench seat upholstered in a mix of black and yellow cloth and vinyl. The dashboard matches the exterior yellow, while the headliner and door panels are finished in black. For comfort in cooler weather, a Mopar Truck Master Model 65 heater is installed under the dash.
The driver’s view includes a three-spoke steering wheel, an 80-mph speedometer, and auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, amperage, and fuel level. While the speedometer and fuel gauge are currently non-functional, an aftermarket tachometer and a Stewart-Warner coolant temperature gauge have been added for more precise monitoring. The odometer shows 59,000 miles, with around 500 miles added during the current ownership, though the true mileage is unknown.
Powertrain and Capability –
This Dodge Power Wagon is powered by a T137 3.8-liter (230 cubic-inch) flathead inline-six engine. It delivers 99 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. This setup allows for either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, making it capable of tackling challenging terrains. The engine breathes through a single downdraft carburetor, staying true to its original design.
Rolling Stock and Braking –
The Power Wagon rides on black-finished 16-inch split-rim steel wheels wrapped in 9.00–16-inch Specialty Tires of America Superlug tires. These tires were recently replaced in October 2024, ensuring optimal traction for the truck’s next adventure. Braking is provided by four-wheel drum brakes, consistent with its vintage nature.
Auction Details –
This 1953 Dodge Power Wagon B-4-PW is currently up for grabs on BringATrailer.com. Bidding closes on Tuesday, October 29, at 1:30 p.m. EDT. With its classic style, robust powertrain, and well-documented history, this Power Wagon offers a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Dodge trucks.
Whether you want to add a classic truck to your collection or seek a vehicle ready to turn heads on weekend drives, this Power Wagon will stand out in any garage.
