1943 Ford 1/2 Ton Truck

From 1942-47, Ford ½ ton trucks did not change much, there is some confusion as to the exact year of this excellent artifact. The information we have from the donor says that this is a 1943 Ford ½ ton pick-up.  At the time, the design was known as ‘civilian pattern’, however, the only way a civilian could purchase one was if it was needed for an “essential” business or service. The trucks were painted green (as you can see from the photo of the interior) and the RCAF would repaint them. We are not sure where this truck served, however, ones like it did serve in the BCATP for general utility purposes. It is powered by a V-8 “flathead” engine with 85 HP. 1942-47 Ford trucks were built with a ladder type chassis with four cross members for strength. The Manufacturer’s suggested retail price for a truck like this in 1942 was $660*. This truck is in running condition.

In February of 1942 Ford Motor Company stopped civilian vehicle production and switched over to military production for the war effort and few ½ ton pickups were built. Thus, this truck was probably produced for military usage. This truck was donated by A. Johnson of Brandon. Body work and painting was done courtesy of Brandon “Honda Land”, and mechanical work was done by museum volunteers.

This truck, and other vehicles and aircraft had a ‘starring’ role in the 1993 movie “For the Moment” which also starred a young Russell Crowe. You can purchase a copy of this movie in our gift shop, all proceeds go to the museum!