Between the WC and M-series platforms that compose what most people collectively call a Dodge Power Wagon, there were about three hundred thousand made, many of which saw use in some of the most austere conditions possible. While the numbers were certainly thinned due to the war effort of WWII, Korea and Vietnam, plenty still made their way to the civillian world, espeicially in places where a rugged, go-anywhere vehicle was badly needed. A Power Wagon wasn’t going to get you home quickly, but it would get you home, and that was what made the difference.
We have no clue how many of these rigs were converted to school buses, but a quick bit of research only turned up one other one, converted by California coachmaker Gillig Brothers. But reader Alan Vanevenhoven contacted us to show off this 1946 Power Wagon project that he’s created. Underpinned by a 2001 Dodge Ram 24-valve Cummins frame, the Power Wagon’s chief problem, low power, has been dealt with. It still maintains four-wheel drive and rides on 37″ rubber all the way around. One of several Power Wagon projects he’s had his hands into, Alex completed the bus a couple of years ago and has put a few thousand miles on the build since.
Sorry, kids…school ain’t cancelled!
Hmm, the only Power Wagon parts left are the hood, hood sides, rad shroud and front fenders. How exactly is that still a Power Wagon?
If it was mine it would be a dually. Other than that it’s pretty cool.