The 1946 Dodge WC Pickup

While the design of the 1946 Dodge WC pickup may appear outdated, its sturdy build and impressive power made it a standout for its era.

When Dodge introduced their trucks in 1939 with a sleek, art-deco style, no one anticipated these vehicles would need to endure until 1948. However, the onset of World War II interrupted production, leaving the body dies almost unused before manufacturing resumed in late 1945.

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The initial generation of prewar styled trucks was known as the T-series. It included a diverse range of bodies, wheelbases, and payload capacities, from the half-ton TC pickup on a 116-inch wheelbase to the three-ton tractor cabs.

While their design lagged behind the contemporary Dodge car models, these trucks provided an intriguing contrast to the car's smooth, curved-nose appearance. Features included a barrel-shaped grille, prominent front fenders, and bullet-shaped pods that housed the free-standing headlamps.

These Dodge trucks gained some popularity just before the war, with the final models produced in 1942, before Dodge shifted to military production. They were then rebranded as the W-series.

When the trucks made their return as the 1946 Dodge WC pickup, they featured a more powerful six-cylinder engine, now delivering 95 horsepower, an increase from the previous 75. Torque was a strong 172 lbs/ft. While the body design remained largely unchanged, it became more colorful, with options including black, green, orange, red, gray, and two shades of blue.

Postwar models were generally pricier, but at $925, the 1946 Dodge WC pickup was $120 less than a comparable Ford and about $300 cheaper than Dodge's least expensive car.

In addition to the pickup's "Express" body style, the W-series half-ton was also offered as a delivery truck with either solid steel or open canvas-covered side panels. There were also chassis, cab/chassis, and cowl/chassis versions available.

Optional upgrades included a larger clutch, a four-speed transmission, oversized tires, an electric driver's wiper, a heater, a chrome windshield frame, an adjustable visor, a driver's armrest, a dome light, turn signals, an "airfoam" seat with leather upholstery, and for true luxury — an AM radio.

While Chevrolet's early postwar trucks may have appeared outdated, the 1946 Dodge WC pickup looked downright ancient in comparison.

Collectible Highlights of the 1946 Dodge WC Pickup

Drawbacks of the 1946 Dodge WC Pickup for Collectors

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