DODGE WC54 – Knowledge and Restoration

OUT OF STOCK

In 1940, as the Second World War gathered momentum, the US Army was driven to study and mass-produce standardised vehicles for its needs. In 1942, deliveries of the ¾ Ton ambulance Dodge WC54 began. Built by Chrysler on the same chassis and with the same engine as the entire Dodge WC series, it features specific characteristics suited to its role as a rescue vehicle and casualty transporter.

In total, more than 26,000 units of the Dodge WC54 were built during the war. Used by the US Army and its allies, it remained in service after the war in many countries, including France. The Dodge WC54 ambulance is an iconic vehicle of this period, highly sought after by collectors. It is still possible to find ambulances on the market in varying conditions, more or less modified. The restoration of a military vehicle requires great rigour. Its specifications – parts, accessories, markings, etc. – must comply with a precise military brief.

This book presents in detail every aspect of this vehicle, covering all subjects: chassis, cab, electrics, accessories, markings… It explains the changes made to the ambulance throughout the war, from both a mechanical and bodywork perspective as well as from the standpoint of markings. It also highlights the differences between the Dodge WC54s used by the US Army and those used by the French Army.

This work, abundantly illustrated with more than 450 photographs, is intended for all enthusiasts of military and emergency vehicles.