1948 Dodge Panel Van Restomod

Description

The 1948 Dodge Panel Van, part of the Dodge B-Series, marked a significant evolution in commercial vehicle design. Introduced post-World War II, the B-Series trucks were produced from 1948 to 1953, replacing Dodge’s prewar models. The 1948 Dodge B-1-B half-ton panel van was known for its robust construction and versatility, catering to various commercial needs. 

One of the van’s standout features was its "pilot house" cab design, which offered improved visibility and a more spacious interior. This design included a larger windshield and optional rear quarter windows, enhancing driver comfort and safety.  Under the hood, the 1948 Dodge Panel Van was equipped with a 218 cubic-inch flathead straight-six engine and three-speed manual transmission, which were standard for half-ton models. To improve weight distribution and handling, the front axle was set back and the engine was shifted forward. The cargo area of the panel van was designed with higher sides, increasing its capacity and making it an ideal choice for businesses requiring efficient transportation of goods.  

The 1948 Dodge Panel Van's combination of classic aesthetics, versatility, and durability made it a popular choice for custom projects like this restomod, which was fully rebuilt from 2013-2015. 

Highlights

• Original custom upgrades from 2013-2015 include: 

  • 350 cu-in Chevrolet V8 crate engine rated at 330 hp 

  • 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission 

  • 1998 Chevrolet S10 Chassis 

  • Four-wheel power disc brakes with new rotors, calipers, and pads 

  • Ridler five-spoke 18x8 front and 20x10 rear mag wheels 

  • Continental Extreme Contact tires: 235/50ZR18 front, 295/40ZR20 rear 

  • Power steering, windows, and seats with lumbar 

  • 140-amp Powermaster alternator 

  • Powermaster starter 

  • Concealed battery with disconnect switch and remote battery jump post 

  • Dakota digital gauges and cruise control 

  • Rear AirRide Lift system with remote control 

  • New Brice Thomas radiator 

  • New Cooling Components fan 

  • Vintage Air ComPac Gen II heat/cool/defrost 

  • Body work 

  • Two-tone Ahern Orange Pearl and Vapor Silver exterior paint 

  • Two-tone orange and gray interior 

  • Gray leather upholstery with orange inserts 

  • JVC stereo

Features

• Among the upgrades/maintenance since 2021: 

  • Brake pads (March 2021) 

  • New starter (August 2021) 

  • New alternator (August 2021) 

  • Radiator re-cored (November 2024) 

  • New cooling fan (November 2024) 

  • Regular oil changes (most recent: January 2025) 

• Dash instrumentation: 160 mph speedometer, 8000 rpm tachometer, and gauges for fuel, volts, oil pressure, and coolant temperature 

Known Imperfections 

• Small crack/paint flake and paint chip on passenger side of hood 

• Paint chip on driver’s side rocker panel 

• Upholstery scuffed and frayed on inside of driver’s door 

• Puncture in passenger seat 

Included 

• Two folders of restoration photos and receipts 

• Notebook documenting work 

Ownership History 

The consignor of this 1948 Dodge Panel Van Restomod has owned it since November 2020. 

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: Tim Rollinger Phone: 912.596.2099 Email: trollinger@hagerty.com