Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, valvetrain components, cooling system, lubrication system, intake and exhaust manifolds, fuel delivery system components (carburetor, fuel pump), ignition system components.
Transmission Components:
Clutch, transmission case, gears, shafts, synchronizers, shifting mechanisms, transfer case components (if applicable).
Drivetrain Components:
Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, universal joints, differentials, hubs, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering Components:
Front and rear springs, shock absorbers, kingpins, tie rods, steering knuckles, steering gear box, steering column components, steering linkage.
Braking Components:
Brake drums, brake shoes, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, brake lines, brake pedal mechanism.
Electrical Components:
Generator, voltage regulator, starter motor, battery, ignition coil, distributor, wiring harnesses, lighting components (headlights, taillights, turn signals), instrumentation cluster components.
Body Chassis Components:
Frame, body panels (fenders, hood, doors, bed), grille, bumpers, cab components, seat frames, windshield, door glass, weatherstripping.
Wheels Tires:
Wheels, hubcaps, lug nuts, tire specifications relevant to interchangeability.
Cooling System Components:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan.
Lubrication System Components:
Oil pan, oil pump, oil filter (if applicable), oil passages.
Body Hardware:
Door handles, latches, hinges, windshield wiper mechanisms, tailgate hardware.
Identification Of Interchangeable Parts:
Cross-referencing of part numbers and descriptions to identify equivalent or direct-fit replacement parts across the specified Power Wagon models.
Part Number Cross Referencing:
Detailed lists and charts showing how parts from one model year or series can be used on another.
Model Specific Differences:
Highlights key differences in components between the WDX, B-series, and C-series Power Wagons that affect interchangeability.
Identification Of Obsolete Parts:
Aims to identify replacements for parts that are no longer manufactured or easily obtainable, often by cross-referencing to other Dodge or Chrysler vehicle parts from similar eras.
Technical Depth:
Focuses on part identification and interchangeability rather than detailed repair procedures. Assumes a baseline understanding of automotive mechanics and parts.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder (flathead)
Displacement:
230 cubic inches (3.8L)
Bore X Stroke:
3.625 in x 4.375 in (92.1 mm x 111.1 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Approximately 6.7:1 (variable by year/spec)
Horsepower Gross Est:
95-105 hp @ 3200-3600 RPM
Torque Gross Est:
185-195 lb-ft @ 1200-1600 RPM
Engine Notes:
The flathead design is robust and known for its torque, suitable for heavy-duty applications. Variations may exist within the specified years.
Carburetor Type:
Single barrel, downdraft (e.g., Carter BBD, Stromberg variations).
Fuel Pump:
Mechanical, engine-driven.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 116 inches (2946 mm) for earlier models, and potentially longer wheelbases for later series (e.g., 126 inches for some C-series variants).
Overall Length:
Varies by body style and wheelbase, typically around 170-190 inches.
Overall Width:
Approximately 70-75 inches.
Overall Height:
Approximately 70-75 inches (variable based on tire size and suspension).
Curb Weight Est:
Approximately 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg).
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approximately 6,000 - 7,000 lbs (2722 - 3175 kg).
Bed Length:
Typically around 7.5 feet for standard pickup bed models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, using appropriate oil viscosity for the era (e.g., SAE 30 or 10W-30 depending on climate).
Grease Points:
Frequent greasing of chassis suspension, steering linkage, U-joints, and driveshaft splines is crucial, often at 1,000-2,000 mile intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Regular inspection and adjustment of ignition timing, carburetor, and valve clearances as needed, typically every 6,000-12,000 miles.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6 quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Water mixed with antifreeze (e.g., Ethylene Glycol) for freeze protection. Capacity around 5 gallons.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Gear oil, e.g., SAE 90 hypoid gear oil for the transmission and transfer case.
Rear Axle Fluid Type:
SAE 90 hypoid gear oil, often with limited-slip additive if so equipped (though unlikely for this era). Capacity approximately 5 pints.
Common Issues:
Wear in steering and suspension components (kingpins, bushings), carburetor issues (percolation, wear), potential for oil leaks from flathead engine seals, generator/regulator charging system issues, rust on body panels and frame, worn clutch components, differential and transfer case wear.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Historically, spin-on filters were less common. Many used canister-style filters. Modern equivalents might cross-reference to Purolator L1004, Wix 51085, or Fram PH8A (if adapted).
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, had a long history of producing durable trucks and military vehicles. The Power Wagon built upon this legacy.
Model Evolution:
The Power Wagon (military designation: WC series) was developed from WWII military trucks. The civilian version, introduced in 1946, was continuously refined through the late 1940s and into the 1950s with chassis updates (WDX, B-series, C-series) and minor styling changes, but retained its core rugged, off-road capability.
Model Designations Explained:
WDX (World War II designation, basis for civilian models), B-1-PW, B-2-PW, B-3-PW, B-4-PW (indicating chassis and series updates), C-1-PW, C-3-PW (later series with further refinements).
Production Period:
1946-1961 (civilian models); military variants served in WWII and beyond.
Manufacturing Location:
Dodge Truck Plant, Warren, Michigan, USA.
