Dump Bed Drama: This 1946 Chevy Flatbed Has Secrets

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

This 1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed offers a rugged blend of postwar utility and vintage charm. Finished in dark green with black fenders, it rides on 20″ steel wheels and features a dually rear axle. The truck is powered by a 235ci inline-six and a four-speed manual transmission.

Exterior Details and Condition

The truck’s bodywork includes running boards, turn signals, and side marker lamps. A Chevrolet-branded grille was installed in 2018. Wood cargo bed panels were refinished in 2024, adding warmth to the utilitarian design. Paint chips and imperfections are visible throughout.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Hydraulic Dump System

A hydraulic dump system built by Daybrook Hydraulic Corporation remains untested. A previous owner noted fluid leakage during use. The system adds functionality, though its current condition is uncertain.

Wheels, Suspension, and Braking

Black-painted 20″ steel wheels wear Sumitomo ST727 tires up front and Trisun tires in the rear. Leaf springs support all four corners. Hydraulic drum brakes received service in 2022, including new U-bolts, bearings, seals, and fluid.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Interior Features and Updates

Inside the cab, a tan vinyl bench seat was reupholstered in 2023. A black rubber floor mat was added. The dashboard, door panels, and bulkhead are finished in tan. Equipment includes a heater, glovebox, and traffic light viewer.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Instrumentation and Mileage

A vinyl-wrapped steering wheel frames a replacement instrument cluster with a 100-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges. The odometer reads 24 miles, though the seller estimates 500 miles added. Total mileage remains unknown.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the 235ci inline-six uses a single downdraft carburetor and AC inline fuel filter. A 12-volt conversion was completed in 2018, along with an alternator upgrade. The truck received a new battery and spark plugs in 2022. An oil change was performed in January 2025.

Transmission and Undercarriage

Power is delivered to the rear via a four-speed manual transmission. The dually rear axle supports heavy-duty use. Corrosion is visible on the underside, consistent with age and utility.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Ownership and Documentation

The truck was purchased in New Jersey and relocated to Tennessee in 2018. It’s offered at no reserve with removed parts and a clean Tennessee title. The VIN listed is 14PWA1013D, though it could not be located on the truck.

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed

Summary

This 1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed presents a utilitarian platform with vintage appeal. Its inline-six engine, hydraulic dump bed, and dually rear axle reflect its working-class roots. While some systems remain untested, the truck carries a distinct postwar character and mechanical simplicity.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.

Source & Details: bringatrailer.com

1946 Chevrolet PW 6400 Flatbed