Dodge WC-51
History
Alice
Ours was produced in 1944. Its war time record is unknown. Post WW2 she was refurbished by S.P.A. Fiat for 51st Ordnance Group then saw service with the Austrian armed forces in the 1950’s and was fitted we believe with cable laying equipment for phone lines.
Disposed of some time in the late 80’s early 90’s. Then in 1994 she was bought
from an Austrian dealer as part exchange for a Studebaker truck and driven to Sussex, England,
Purchased by us in November 1994.
With a tidy-up she past an MOT and was registered in 1995.
In 2003 a full restoration was carried out
(it was just going to be a repaint of the chassis but these things escalate)
Returning to the road in 2005.
Markings are from 2nd Division who were part of British 14th Army serving in Burma during WW2.
Specification
Dodge Weapons Carrier Model-51
Engine Dodge T214 6-Cylinder side valve petrol
Capacity 230 cubic inch or approximately 3.7 Litres producing 92.bhp
Gearbox 4-speed forward 1-reverse with transfer box giving either 2 or 4 wheel drive .
Weight 5550lbs (2 1/2 ton approx.) carrying capacity 1800lbs (3/4 ton) Electrics 6 Volt.
Between 1942 to 1945 over 250,000 examples were produced in the U.S.A. in various body types:
Weapons Carrier, Ambulance, Command Car, Telephone Maintenance, Carryall.
Jan 2022
Engine Top End Overhaul 2022
In November 2021 we noticed the oil level had risen and the water level dropped ,blown head gasket is suspected.
Oil filter flexi hose was also found to be broken, which was only replaced in 2019 so all hoses will be replaced with modern replacements.
Engine strip down commenced after Christmas when weather permitted.
April the small parts have been cleaned and painted, exhaust manifold studs replaced, valves re-ground.
April 18th all running, slight oil leak on sump other wise all ok , hopefully no more issues for rest of the year.
2003-05
Rebuild 2003-05
Total chassis up rebuild, new rear tub floor, front axle re-build, new brakes, re-wire, prop shaft bearings, water pump, canvas, re-paint and many other jobs.
