1947 Studebaker M15A-20 Stake Truck

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

“Built to take it — day after day!” The 1947 Studebaker M15A-20 Stake Truck was a rugged and reliable workhorse that embodied post-World War II American industrial resilience. Produced by the Studebaker Corporation — a company with deep roots in Conestoga wagon manufacturing — the M15A-20 was part of the M-series, which had been adapted from military designs used during the war.

The M15A was a 1½-ton truck, positioned between the lighter M5 and the heavier M16 models. It featured a 169.6 cubic inch inline-six engine, known for its durability and simplicity. The “20” in its designation refers to its 125-inch wheelbase, making it suitable for stake bed configurations that were ideal for hauling goods, equipment, and agricultural produce.

“Styled for pride—built for business,” said Studebaker. Stylistically, the M15A-20 combined pre-war curves with post-war practicality. Its rounded fenders, split windshield, and utilitarian interior reflected a transitional design era. The truck’s robust suspension and dual rear wheel layout made it a dependable choice for farmers, tradesmen, and small businesses across America.

Though overshadowed by more mainstream brands, the 1947 Studebaker M15A-20 remains a symbol of American craftsmanship and the country’s shift from wartime production to peacetime prosperity.

Highlights

• Stylish 1½-ton stake truck

• Finished in red over a tan and green vinyl interior

• 169.6 cu-in inline-six rated at 80 hp

• Four-speed manual transmission

Features

• Recent maintenance includes:

  • New spark plugs (2024)

  • Oil change (2024)

  • Carburetor kit (2024)

  • Rebuilt starter (2023)

  • Rebuilt water pump (about 2010)

  • Gas tank cleaned and sealed (about 2010)

  • Radiator core services (about 2000)

• Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes

• Solid front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs

• Live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs

• Popular among farmers and small businesses for its reliability and load capacity

Known Imperfections

• Oil pan leak

Included

• 1947 Michigan truck license plate

• Assorted original spare parts

• Restoration photos

• Repair and maintenance manual

• Original tools kit

Ownership History

The Michigan family has owned this 1947 Studebaker M15A-20 Stake Truck since 1999. They state, “Bought it from a guy that bought it at the estate sale of the original owner. The second owner only had it for a short time and he was from Alma (Michigan), so until 1999 it was always in Gratiot County. Also included is the original tools kit!”

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Craig Zimmerman Phone: 586.707.5811 email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com