1957 Dodge D300 Hod Rod 5.9 12v Cummins Turbo Diesel Custom Build

Vehicle Description

1957 Dodge D300 – Big Rear Window | Cummins-Powered Custom Build

For this project, I wanted something strong and reliable that drove smoothly. I used only the body from the '57 Dodge and mounted it completely onto a 2001 Dodge Ram 2500 chassis. To make everything fit properly, the front clip was widened by 9 inches and the firewall was moved back 2 inches. Originally, the truck came with a 9.5-foot bed, which I shortened to exactly 8 feet. The bed floor is made of composite PVC decking, designed for easy removal to access the frame, fuel tank, and batteries.

I didn’t want to use the 24v Cummins from the donor truck, so I installed a 12v Cummins with all new components, including Dynomite Stage 3 Injectors, 3k/4k Governor Springs, Aggressor HX35 60/64 Turbo, and a Hot Rod Modified Cummins Lift Pump — all from Power Driven Diesel.

Pushing close to 600hp, I opted out of the weak automatic transmission and installed a Mercedes G56 6-speed manual paired with a VALAIR NMU70G56-06 performance clutch kit (13.00 x 1.375) and a solid flywheel.

Since I planned on towing, I chose not to run electric fans. Instead, I installed a 9-inch plastic fan blade along with a 6.7 intercooler and an aluminum radiator — zero overheating.

Wheels & Body Work For wheels, I went with Detroit Steel Wheels — 20x8 with 265/50 Toyo tires in the front and 20x10 with 305/50 Toyo tires in the rear. The original rear fenders were in rough shape, so I replaced them with fiberglass ones and widened them 3 inches to fit the 305s properly.

Interior & Electrical The interior was done by a well-known upholsterer in Miami, who built a custom center console that perfectly houses the Kenwood sound system. The dash features Intellitronix gauges from a '62–'65 Chevy Nova, which fit almost perfectly and operate with precise accuracy. A 14-circuit wire harness from Kwik Wire was used for the entire electrical system, along with a Chrysler voltage regulator to eliminate the ECM — this truck is 100% mechanical.

Glass & Climate Control A new windshield and large rear window were installed with new seals. I deleted the door vent windows, converting the doors to one-piece glass. The truck is equipped with a Restomod Air Bluetooth A/C system. The heater was removed — not needed in South Florida.

Character & History The dent on the hood came with the truck, and I decided to leave it as a unique mark of character. The damage on the right fender was thanks to someone who hit it in a shopping center parking lot and took off without saying a word.

Performance & Reliability I built this truck to last — nearly every bolt is Grade 8. This is not a cheap build. I’ve put almost 11,000 miles on it since finishing it, with zero issues, including long highway trips.

For Buyers The truck is located in Naples, Florida. Buyer is responsible for shipping arrangements. I'm not in a rush to sell, so please don’t waste my time. I’m open to trades, but only if it’s something that truly interests me — I have multiple other projects I’m looking to finish.

!!!Wherever this truck goes, it turns heads. If you’re the shy type who doesn’t like attention, this isn’t the vehicle for you!!!!