Vehicle Description
1978 Dodge Power Wagon Plow Truck
Some younger truck fans might only know the name Power Wagon from
the newer Ram trucks, which is a shame since they're missing out on
some valuable history. If you grab this 1978 Dodge Power Wagon you
could help educate the youth and help dispel silly rumors that the
late 1970's was a dead zone for American vehicles.
Instead of some wimpy four-cylinder, this truck hits hard with a
solid 318ci V8. It is being fed copious amounts of fossils through
a 2-barrel carburetor and pushes all this energy through a 4-speed
manual transmission (NP435) and an NP203 Transfer case. An added
extra is the moneymaking aspect of this truck in that you can now
become Mr. Plow with the quick detach Myers power angle plow.
Coupled with the 4x4 capabilities and the classic look of this 1978
Power Wagon what are you waiting for??
Exterior
Everything about the Power Wagon is bold, including the red paint
on the exterior and the high ride for the 4x4 which makes a loud
exclamation point. The OE grille keeps the exterior appearance
authentic, while the side mirrors appear to be original as well and
are now black. Adding to the tough nature of this truck is a black
roll bar mounted into the rear bed. The bed is lined with a rubber
liner, and upon close inspection, there is plenty of bondo that has
been put into the bed and sides. Aluminum running boards have also
been installed to make the climb into the cab easier. The Myers
plow is installed and has its own additional lighting mounted to it
to show the way. On all 4 corners are 15-inch wagon wheel red
painted wheels with some knobbies wrapping them.
Interior
With an exterior that looks so tough and good, you might be afraid
the interior of this Dodge Power Wagon pales in comparison.
Fortunately, the previous owner paid plenty of attention to each
detail, including the red vinyl bench seat, which looks to be
freshly redone and features a split back to push forward and access
a small storage area behind these seats. It's obvious the black
carpeting is new, so you're not dealing with discoloration, grime,
or wear in the material. All the stock gauges and controls are
still sunk into the factory black dash front. In the middle of the
dash is a Boman AM/FM/CB radio replacing the original. Various
additional knobs and toggles are installed for control of the plow
and lighting.
Drivetrain
Within an unrestored and original engine bay sits a 318ci V8. It
has a 2-barrel carburetor on top, and an NP435 transmission on the
back. A Dana 44 front axle, and a 9-3/4 rear axle are noted for the
4x4 drive. Surface rust and paint are on this engine, but it
remains mechanically sound.
Undercarriage
Some surface rust on the frame and suspension parts, and a few
earlier repairs now have any invasive rust remediated with solid
metal welded in fixes. Leaf spring suspension is on all 4 corners,
and power disc brakes are reserved for the front, and power drums
for the rear.
Drive-Ability
A quick fire up, a lift of the plow, and it was off to the test
track where it performed just great. Plenty of power, good smooth
acceleration, and nimble handling and turning in tight spots for a
big truck. Interior was comfy, and all was in working order.
Dodge used the Power Wagon name for several trucks starting in
1946. It has always stood for rugged performance, making the truck
a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and avid off-roaders. Thanks to
some diligent work, this truck is now in its prime again, ready to
take on the winter!
VIN DECODE
W17BE8S295462
W-4wd
1-100 1/2 Ton
7-Club Cab Sweptline
B-6000/10000 GVWR
E-318ci V8 2bbl 150hp
8-1978
S-Warren, MI Assy Plant
295402-Sequential Unit Number
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special
interest automobile showroom, featuring over 600 vehicles for sale
with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle
barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown,
Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia
on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is
www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914.
Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the
vehicle in person.