1952 Dodge B3C 3/4 Ton Pilot House Series Pick Up Truck

Vehicle Description

1952 Dodge B3C 3/4 Ton Pilot House Series Pick Up Truck
HISTORY
This was my grandfather's truck. As per my grandfather, it was originally purchased by the State of California in 1952 for use by the CA Department of Forestry Service in the Los Angeles area. My grandfather purchased it from the state in 1959 and drove it locally in the San Diego area until his passing in 1975. My father then took possession of the truck. In 2000, my father passed the truck down to me. This is an original mileage, unmolested rust-free Southern California truck that has been in my family since 1959. When I took possession of the truck, the odometer showed original mileage of 69200. It now reads 73108. I have put less than 4000 miles on the vehicle in the past 25 years.
CONDITION
I realize that my photos are not professional quality, and I apologize for this. I did the best that I could. I am not a dealer with fancy props and a high dollar camera. I am a private party seller.
A long and slow process of an amateur restoration was started when I received the truck in 2000. Refurbishing was completed around 2005. This being a rust-free CA truck enabled me to maintain a vast majority of the original pieces. Overall condition is very good with many major mechanical components being rebuilt or replaced with NOS or NORS pieces. This is a solid and original 3/4-ton truck that runs and drives great. Not modified in any way. Runs and rides like an old truck should. CA DMV registration is valid through Nov 2025.
WORK DONE
The motor is a 218 C.I. Flat Head 6 cylinder. This is not the original motor. The motor was rebuilt to stock specs by ESI Engine Builders in San Diego, CA. Motor has less than 4000 miles on it since rebuild. (The engine build sheet, work order and receipt are included) As per the vehicle serial number plate, the motor is factory rated at 97 Certified Gross Horsepower @ 3600 RPM.
The original New Process transmission was professionally rebuilt. A new clutch was installed at the same time as well. This is a 4-speed trans with granny low 1st gear. (The repair order and receipt are included)
All original body panels were removed from the cab and bed, stripped and professionally painted. (Work order and receipt are included) There is no evidence of any Bondo or damage anywhere on this truck. The frame is solid showing no signs of rust. The original factory color scheme was maintained. The cab's interior metal was left untouched and still retains its original 1952 factory green paint. The bed side panels, tail gate and rear fenders were originally green as shown, not black. This was an option for 1952. The paint quality is good and still holding up well. I would consider it to be very good if not excellent driver quality. The bed wood flooring was replaced and painted black as original. The original metal bed flooring strips and bolts were stripped, painted and re-used. The original running boards were also professionally stripped and repainted.
Original 1952 Dodge pickup interior seat vinyl was obtained from SMS Auto Fabrics in Portland, OR. and professionally installed. (Work order and receipt are included) A reproduction interior door panel and headliner kit was also installed.
The original fuel tank, radiator and heater core were professionally serviced. (Receipts are included)
Reproduction fuel lines, oil lines, vacuum lines and brake lines were installed. All lines were made to factory specs by CLASSIC TUBE SPECIALITIES. (Receipts are included) The original brakes were professionally serviced. The system was also thoroughly flushed and now using DOT 5 brake fluid. (Receipts and work orders are included) The original master cylinder was professionally rebuilt.
The steering gear was professionally rebuilt. (Receipt and work order is included)
The 6-volt generator was professionally rebuilt. (Receipt is included)
The original starter was professionally rebuilt. (Receipt is included) This is a 6-volt starter with original positive ground electrical system. A 6-volt Optima Battery has been installed. A 6-volt "Battery Minder" trickle charger designed specifically for use with a 6-volt Optima battery is included with the vehicle. (A great item to maintain the battery at peak charge for periods of minimal vehicle usage) All electrical wiring and connectors have been replaced with a restoration wiring kit from HARNESSES UNLIMITED. This kit duplicates the original wiring in function and appearance. (Wiring diagram is included)
Four heavy duty shocks were purchased and installed. (Receipt is included)
The truck is running on 5-lug, 15 x 5.50 steel rims. Four 225/75 R15 Hancock tires were installed at DISCOUNT TIRE on 6-21-23. (Receipt and work order is included)
The drive shaft was professionally serviced and balanced and new U-Joints were installed. (Receipt is included)
A new exhaust system (muffler and pipe) was professionally installed. (Work order and receipt are included)
ADDITIONAL
The auction also includes the original Driver's Manual, an original Sales Brochure, a reprint of the B3 Series Shop Manual and a Dodge Pickup History and Restoration Guidebook. All were a valuable resource in refurbishing this truck.ISSUES (FULL DISCLOSURE)
It has always been my intention to address the following issues but due to my age, health and time permitted I have been unable to do so. The issues listed do not in any way affect or hamper the overall condition or drivability of this old truck.
The motor has developed a small oil leak in the area of the oil pan. It is more of a slow and intermittent drip. It is not a serious or excessive leak at this time but a leak none the less. A new pan gasket would remedy this. Also, this motor utilizes the early rope style rear main seal gasket which were notorious for leaks even when new. With the oil pan removed, this seal should also be replaced as it may also be contributing to this leak.
The cowl fresh air vent does not function properly. This has always been an issue on this truck. When the interior actuator lever is activated by hand, the vent does not fully close as it should. The lever handle under the dash has been temporally secured in the closed position to prevent opening. This secured closure is not permanent allowing for any possible repair or adjustment in the future. The truck does however come equipped with the factory Fresh Air Package which is controlled by a knob on the dash panel.
The truck still retains its original heater box. When activated to the on or heat position, the heater fan basket or wheel is making noise when spinning. Also, the heater valve actuating cable needs lubricating. I have never had the need to use the heater as the engine heat generated through the firewall is sufficient to heat the cab's interior. Anyway, full disclosure on this issue.
There is a deep scratch in the paint approximately 3" long on the lower right corner of the driver's door. See photo. The camera highlights it far greater than it actually appears to the naked eye.
INSPECTION
I encourage any interested parties or their representative to view and inspect the truck in person. I am in the San Diego, CA area. Inspections are to be completed prior to auction's end with any related inspection fees being the responsibility of the buyer. TERMS and CONDITIONS
I have described the truck and known issues to the best of my ability. Truck is sold "As Is" with no expressed or implied warranty. Please don't bid if you are not seriously interested or financially unable to make payment.
A $500.00 non-refundable deposit is required within 24 hours of auction's end. A photocopy of buyer's valid state issued driver's license is to be provided as well.
Final payment is to be made within 72 hours of auction's end. Payment type for balance shall be Certified Funds-Bank to Bank Wire Transfer (preferred), cashier's check or personal check (vehicle shipment will be delayed until check clears).
Prices do not include Title, License and Registration fees, State or Local Taxes. These are the buyer's responsibility.
All sales transactions including vehicle pick up are to be completed within 7 calendar days. All shipping expenses are buyer's responsibility.