Well if I was ever looking for a vehicle that ticked off multiple boxes of my favorite things, this 1942 Power Wagon wrecker could certainly be it. The truck is an interesting study because it combines some elements that are truly Power Wagon (the little flathead engine), some elements that are modern (the interior), and some elements that are not quite what you think they are (the wrecker unit). The truck is no paper tiger though because while the boom may not be rated for 10-tons there’s a Braden PTO winch back there that is and this thing would be more than capable of dragging out a stuck vehicles or loaning its pulling power to whatever was needed.
We’re wondering what the flathead engine sounds like through dual exhaust stacks. It is probably pretty garbly and weird but frankly that’s the way I’d want it. I am completely in love with the aesthetics here. The front bumper with the big pusher deal on it, the dually style rear, and the red paint all add up to give the truck a really tough and classic look. The treatment on the wheels is pretty great as well. If they were shiny black paint it totally would not be as good but this copperish color is really perfect. Adds some age and class. The NDT military tires are also pretty awesome in my opinion.
So there it is, a thing that I have long dreamed about but never seen…until today. Wow.
eBay Link: 1942 Power Wagon Wrecker Listing – This Thing Is Too Cool!
Just take the toy wrecker off it and put a 6/71 blower on that flat head then the exhaust will roar like a Chevy lover who’s car you have just wrecked with this beauty….
I do not believe there were any closed cab 3/4 ton trucks until 1946… So $42,000 is about 30 over what it is worth in my eyes at the very best..
And they are foul riding vehicles, those seats are good for spine compression, but I would want real springs in my seat or an air ride system..and many more reasons to shy away from the asking price.