If you’ve got your eye on restoring a 1950 Dodge Power Wagon, you’re not alone—and you’ve got good taste. Built for utility, known for grit, and styled with pure post-war attitude, this truck isn’t just a project—it’s a piece of Americana. But before you start tearing it down (or building it back up), it helps to know what you’re getting into. This guide walks through the essential 1950 Dodge Power Wagon parts you’ll need, what typically fails, and where folks tend to get stuck. This ain’t a plug-and-play restoration. These trucks are tough—but that doesn’t mean parts are easy to find or slap on. We’re here to make the process easier.

The Power Wagon was Dodge’s answer to the American need for a post-war workhorse. Based on military WC-series trucks, the 1950 model kept the same all-business, no-frills look—and it could handle just about anything you threw at it. Originally equipped with a flathead inline-six, a four-speed manual transmission, and a full-time 4WD drivetrain, this truck was overbuilt in the best way.

Fun stat: Over 95% of Power Wagons sold in the early 1950s were used for either farming or logging. These weren’t showpieces—they were workhorses.
Today, you’re not just rebuilding a truck. You’re bringing back a tool that helped build America.

You’ll find a few systems almost always need attention on a Power Wagon project, even if it’s been “garage kept” for decades.

Brake System
Drum brakes on all four corners were standard—and let’s just say they weren’t known for quick stops even when they were new. You’ll likely need to replace:

• Wheel cylinders

• Brake hoses (these almost always dry rot)

• Master cylinder

• Shoes and hardware

Cooling System
Even in their prime, these flatheads ran hot. Make sure to inspect:

• Radiator (often needs a re-core or full replacement)

• Thermostat

• Water pump (often overlooked but critical)

• Hoses (cracked and brittle by now)

Fuel System
If your truck sat for any real length of time, expect issues with:

• Fuel pump (mechanical type, usually needs a rebuild or replacement)

• Gas tank (rusted or leaking)

• Fuel lines (run fresh ones and save yourself the fire risk)

Electrical
Original wiring was cloth-covered. That’s romantic and all, but it’s not safe. Most folks go with a 12-volt conversion and full harness replacement.

That old 230-cubic-inch flathead is a reliable old beast. If it turns over, there’s a good chance you can get it running with:

• A fresh ignition kit

• New gaskets

• Carburetor rebuild

Compression check (you want to know what you’re working with)
Transmissions are usually rebuildable unless the case is cracked. Seals and synchros are easy to find. Transfer cases may need bearings or seals, especially if there’s any howling in 4WD.

Don’t skip the brake lines. Steel lines rust from the inside out. You don’t want to find out the hard way.

Look for NOS glass or seals early. These are hard to find and expensive once you need them.

Document before teardown. Label every bolt, take photos, and keep hardware in bags. You’ll thank yourself later.

Right now, CPP is working behind the scenes to build the most comprehensive collection of classic Dodge auto parts—including for workhorses like the 1950 Power Wagon. While the big guys might stock a few basics, the rare stuff still hides in small shops and forgotten barns.

We’re here to change that.

Got a question about what fits? Reach out. Need help identifying your brake master cylinder? We’ll be here when you’re ready to wrench.

Restoring a 1950 Dodge Power Wagon isn’t easy—but that’s kind of the point. These trucks weren’t built for shortcuts, and neither are the people who bring them back to life. You’re part of a small crew keeping this hobby alive, and CPP is here to back you up with real advice and hard-to-find parts.