Vehicle Description
1946 International KB2 Pickup
One of the most enjoyable parts about working around classic
vehicles is getting to learn about their history and check out some
that you just don't see very often. This very cool '46
International is one of those unique vehicles that really stands
out in a crowd. The International Harvester Company was originally
founded in 1902 with the merger of McCormick Harvesting Machine
Company and Deering Harvester Company as well as a few other
smaller manufactures. They were an American manufacturer of not
just vehicles but agricultural equipment, construction equipment,
lawn/garden products and even more. The were defunct in 1985 when
it was renamed Navistar International. The first light truck was
introduced in 1907 and was often referred to as the "Auto Buggy".
Following its success they released the K and KB series in the
mid-1940s. They followed the common look for pickups during that
era with a pointed nose and rounded fenders but still are very
unique when sitting next to Fords, Chevys, etc. This KB2 is an
extremely cool truck and was totally redone in a restomod style to
make it a comfortable driver while still retaining a lot of its
original features. The base model was K with the KB series
receiving some additional chrome accents like the hood ornament and
grill sides. The 2 indicates it as being a 3/4 ton. The build was
completed in 2017 and the truck has been very well maintained
since. It has been driven 10,682 miles after being finished out. It
sits on a later model Toyota Chassis and the undercarriage is all
solid with zero rust issues. The original steel body is in great
condition and is painted a single stage acrylic urethane Merlot
paint from Summit Racing. The original grill up front looks great
and is framed by rounded headlights. In back it has its original
style taillights but a 3rd was added in the rear window for extra
visibility. The original short side running boards have been coated
in a bedliner style finish to keep them protected and make them
actually functional unlike most running boards on these classic
vehicles. It has an excellent stance and rolls around on American
Racing Torq Thrust wheels with 205/60R15 front tires and 255/70R15
rear tires.
These were originally power by a 6 cylinder but this one has been
made much more reliable with a crate 350V8 motor from GM. The motor
was new when installed and makes the truck a great cruiser whether
you are going around town or driving down the highway. The motor is
fitted with an Edelbrock intake, Edelbrock carb, Edelbrock chrome
air cleaner, finned valve covers, chrome pulley, chrome alternator,
and polished AC compressor. It runs 5 QTs of 10W-30 Mobile 1
Synthetic oil which was just changed around 3,000 miles ago. The
transmission is a new Phoenix 700R-4 automatic with overdrive
transmission that shifts smoothly. The truck really does drive
well. It has plenty of power and is very smooth with power
steering, new power 4 wheel disc brakes, front/rear sway bar, and
independent front suspension.
The interior was all redone with Gray upholstery. In typical truck
style for this vintage the doors are left painted and have their
original handles. The dual bucket seats are from a later model
vehicle and incorporate lap seat belts. In front of the driver is a
polished tilt steering column with column shift and a custom
steering wheel. The dash has been kept clean with painted surfaces
topped with Dolphin Gauges and LED indicators. It has an underdash
Mustang style AC system which blows cold and came from Southern
Rods & Parts. Other nice features include the cruise control system
which is often something overlooked when rebuilding older vehicles.
The bed of the truck has been lined and is where you will fine the
relocated gas cap (tank underneath) and a compartment to access the
red top Optima battery.
This is an extremely cool Pickup that has a lot going for it. You
don't see many Internationals around nowadays especially redone
like this. These trucks were typically farm or work trucks so not a
lot of them are still out there. If you go to a show in this Pickup
you are most likely going to be the only International around.
This very cool Truck could be in your garage for $32,500.00!
