REFINED RUGGED: This 1958 W300M Dodge Power Wagon Custom Is Tough But Tame
December 21, 2021
Posted by Barrett-Jackson
Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson
Lot #1350 – [1958 Dodge W300M Power Wagon Custom Pickup ](http://Lot #1366 - Rusty Wallace's 1966 Chevrolet Nova SS Custom Coupe will be selling with No Reserve at our 2022 Scottsdale Auction.)will be selling with No Reserve at our 2022 Scottsdale Auction.
The Dodge line of four-wheel-drive Power Wagon pickups has a long history with the military and always provided the best in performance, even in the very worst of conditions. This 1958 model W300M (Lot #1350), which will be offered with No Reserve at Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Auction January 22-30, is one of only 290 one-ton four-wheel-drive Power Wagons produced that year. Although this Power Wagon has all of its original exterior charisma, there is a significantly new personality lurking directly under the skin.
The already stout original frame was boxed to add even more rigidity to this 126-inch wheelbase structure. Then the frame and body were soda-blasted before painting to provide extra attention to detail – and the good looks that go with it. A modern 5.7-liter Dodge HEMI is backed-up with an equally modern 5-speed automatic transmission to help transform this great classic pickup into a civilized and desirable rendition of the original brute. Dana front and rear differentials harness the power and spread it around any way you like. Bilstein coilovers on all corners and stabilizer bars reinforce the suspension. A custom Be Cool radiator keeps the HEMI agreeable and aggressive in any climate.
The truck has plenty of go and stopping power to match thanks to four oversized vented disc brakes utilizing a Hydro-Boost power assist system. The truck rolls on 40-inch Toyo tires wrapped around Trail Ready wheels offering a simulated beadlock design, which represents the only simulated part on this entire Power Wagon. A WARN 16,500-pound self-recovery winch mounted into a custom front bumper will help save the driver from any potential terrain or gravity misjudgments.
Inside this Power Wagon, a total of nine hides of distressed leather were reimagined to cover the Cadillac SRX power buckets, door panels and headliner. The LED interior lighting and tweed carpeting offer additional degrees of plushness and comfort, as do the power steering, windows, brakes, door locks, electric e-brake and even air conditioning. Lighted power steps, a rear-view camera and a 2,000-watt Pioneer stereo system are features that were science-fiction in 1958, but are smoothly integrated here.
Looking over the original dashboard you’ll find brand-new, but traditional-appearing AutoMeter gauges. While you’re listening to that high-tech HEMI and look out the uniquely shaped windshield, the side glass or the rear window you’re bound to wonder which century you’re actually sitting and driving in.
In keeping with the classic beauty of this truck, its bed has definitely been made. In this case, boards of Pecky Cypress wood have been masterfully crafted and fit wall-to-wall flaunting a mirror-like finish.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take this piece of modernized history home with you. It just may be the beginning of a wonderful friendship.
For up-to-date information on this vehicle, visit here.
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