The fully restored 1947 Dodge WF-32 farm truck for sale on eBay doesn’t just look like a farm truck. It was a farm truck that ran for many years.
The seller’s friend’s great-grandparents used it on their Kansas wheat farm. The Dodge truck, available for $29,000, is an opportunity to own a piece of American history.
The truck looks gorgeous in its cream livery, with green fenders and a new stake bed. Actually, it’s better than new. The vendor says:
I acquired some 160-plus-year-old long-leaf pine from an old barn that we tore down so that we could salvage and restore the barn timber. A cabinetmaker friend helped me build the bed.
The pickup was quite literally a barn find that had slumbered since 1981. It was still in the original family’s barn, with 38,126 miles on the odometer. Professionals removed the rust and restored the body.
The WF-32 is resplendent in cream and green.
The original engine was rebuilt, as well as the brake system. The owner upgraded the electrics from six to 12 volts. The seats feature new leather.
The owner says he has $38,000 invested, so the asking price is reasonable. It’s a rare and sought-after truck, with some being tricked out with Hemi power or retro touches—for a lot more money.
The bed used pine wood from a 160-year-old barn.
A Colorful History, Interrupted by War
Dodge launched the “Job Rated” truck series in 1939 with “T” designations. The brand then introduced W models for 1941. The line of work trucks gave way to military versions during the Second World War. Designers retained the pre-war styling when the civilian versions resurfaced in 1946. Models ranged from a half-ton pickup to a three-ton tractor cab. The payload was 3,170 pounds.
This is the WF-32 on Russian service during the Second World War.
Since we’re talking World War II, it’s fascinating to note that the WF-32 helped win the war—on the eastern front. The US delivered military versions of the truck to Russia under the lend-lease program in 1942 and 1943. They had the same 160-inch wheelbase as the non-military trucks, but the manufacturer made changes to the bumpers, fenders, and mudguards. Russia got 9,500 trucks.
Another 15,000 trucks, with T-234 designations, were used in the Allied effort cooperating with China against Japan. With reinforced frames, 300-cubic-inch engines, and five-speed transmissions, they stood up to punishment on the rough Burma Road.
All Reasonable Offers
The seller says he had fun with the truck for five years. It’s been his steed of choice for annual Christmas caroling. He added:
It runs and drives good. I would say great, but with its all-original drive and powertrain, it can sometimes be a little cranky on cold winter days. It’s a real eye-catcher and attention-grabber. I have two antiques now and need to sell one of them. A reasonable offer will not be refused at this point.
Bonus to Texas residents: free delivery from Waco, Tex., the truck’s current location. That’s quite an offer since it’s a big state. The owner also offers to upgrade the truck to power steering - opens in new window or tab. using an available kit for an additional $1,800. That’s probably a good idea since these vehicles with the manual steering box can be a bear to handle at low speeds.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.