For Sale: 1949 International KB1 in Hingham, Massachusetts

Zoom Classic Cars presents this 1949 International Harvester KB-1 Half-Ton Pickup. Frame-off restored with two owner history. Step back into the postwar era with this handsome 1949 International Harvester KB-1 Half-Ton Pickup, a distinctive example of the rugged, straightforward trucks that helped put America back to work after World War I. With its unmistakable late-1940s styling, contrasting black body and deep burgundy fenders, bright chrome accents, and whitewall tires, this KB-1 offers a wonderful combination of vintage character and classic show-truck appeal. The current family acquired the truck from the original owner WHO WAS A World War I veteran thus preserving a nice connection to its earliest days. The truck reportedly spent much of its life in parade and weekend use, making it a charming example of a vintage working vehicle that has continued to be enjoyed across generations.The KB series was introduced for 1947 and continued through 1949, giving International Harvester a bold postwar design with rounded fenders, a prominent grille, and styling that distinguished its trucks from the competition. The KB-1 was the half-ton model, built on a 113-inch wheelbase. Its lighter-duty configuration offers an appealing alternative to the heavier trucks of the era. Power comes from an International Harvester L-head inline-six, rebuilt as part of a comprehensive restoration approximately 20 years ago. The engine resides in a beautifully painted and detailed compartment and features a single carburetor and heavy-duty air cleaner. A four-blade cooling fan has replaced the original single-blade fan to promote cooler running, and the original fan has been retained. The engine is paired with a 3 speed manual transmission on the column, preserving the traditional mechanical character of this classic International. Although the truck was fully restored approximately two decades ago, and the quality of its presentation remains evident throughout. The black body contrasts beautifully with the deep burgundy fenders, while the chrome trim and brightwork complement the distinctive late-1940s styling. All-steel body panels are solid and align nicely, including the floorboards, and the trim, badging, and chrome are intact and in excellent condition. There is no known evidence of rust anywhere on the truck.The attractive exterior is complemented by a well-presented cargo area featuring a beautiful oak bed in excellent condition and a distinctive Knox tailgate. Two side-mounted mirrors add practicality while maintaining the truck's traditional appearance. Fresh whitewall bias 4-ply tires size 6.50-16 with International Chrome Hubs complete the period-inspired presentation.Inside, the cab is finished in black with green vinyl bench seating and retains its original gauges, giving the interior an appropriately authentic appearance. The heater box is functional, and a turn-signal indicator has been added for convenience. The driver's-side windshield wiper and rubber floor mats are present, with soundproofing installed beneath the mats. These practical details make the truck more accommodating to use while retaining its vintage character.Recent work by the current owner includes new wiring, a new steering box, and a rebuilt rear end. The original rear-end components have been retained, along with the original cooling fan. These retained parts are a welcome addition for an enthusiast who values the truck's history and appreciates having original components accompanying the vehicle.The undercarriage is exceptionally clean, with solid floors and no known evidence of rust. A full-size spare tire is tucked neatly underneath, and the truck retains its single exhaust system. The clean underside and carefully presented chassis complement the quality of the body and engine compartment.The odometer displays approximately 52,343 miles, although the actual total mileage has not been verified. Its reported history of parade and weekend use adds to the truck's appeal, but the indicated mileage should not be interpreted as confirmed original mileage.This 1949 International Harvester KB-1 presents an appealing opportunity to acquire a distinctive postwar pickup with reported two-owner provenance, an older comprehensive restoration, an attractive color combination, and meaningful recent mechanical attention. The truck is stored in Massachusetts and comes with a clean title in the owner's name, some documentation and receipts, and miscellaneous parts, including an extra KB-1 headlight trim ring in excellent condition.Whether displayed at local shows, enjoyed in parades and weekend outings, or added to a collection of vintage American trucks, this handsome International offers a wonderful blend of classic utility, character, and history.Call Jeff for more information or to schedule a viewing. Thanks for looking!