Dodge WC 51
Built: 1942-1944 · Series: WC
More machines from model year 1942
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Dodge WC – US military Weapons Carrier of the Second World War: 3/4-ton 4x4 and 1.5-ton 6x6 versions, straight-six from 3.65 to 3.88 litres, gross weight up to 6 tonnes
The Dodge WC is a series of American military trucks (Weapons Carriers) that Dodge built for the US Army during the Second World War. WC51 and WC52 denote the three-quarter-ton version with 4x4 drive, while WC62 and WC63 denote the one-and-a-half-ton version with 6x6 drive, the WC63 additionally fitted with a winch. All models were powered by a side-valve straight-six of around 3.65 to 3.9 litres. The sturdy ladder-frame construction and simple drivetrain made the WC one of the most widely built American military vehicles of its class.
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The register lists 7 versions with a straight-six of 3,650 to 3,877 cm³ and outputs of 67 to 68 kW. Unladen weight ranges from 2,593 to 3,280 kg, gross vehicle weight from 3,500 to 6,000 kg. Length runs from 4,450 to 5,810 mm and width from 2,100 to 2,200 mm.
After the war, many WC vehicles passed into civilian use and private collections, where they still serve today as the basis for military-vehicle restorations. Thanks to their high off-road capability, the 6X6 versions continued to be used in several countries after the war for recovery and transport tasks. The WC is regarded today as one of the best-known American trucks of the Second World War, alongside the smaller Jeep.
When buying a used WC, checking the frame and leaf springs for cracking comes first, along with the condition of the mechanical braking system. The side-valve straight-six is considered robust and easy to service, but seals and the carburettor should be checked given the age of these vehicles. On 6X6 models, the transfer cases and, where fitted, the winch should also be checked. Spare parts are offered by specialist military-vehicle dealers and reproduction-parts manufacturers.
Technical data
Engine
| Power | 68 kWcorrect |
|---|---|
| Cylinders | 6correct |
| Displacement | 3,650 cm³correct |
Dimensions and weights
| Length | 4,450 mmcorrect |
|---|---|
| Width | 2,200 mmcorrect |
| Wheelbase | 2,500 mmcorrect |
| Unladen weight | 2,630 kgcorrect |
| Gross vehicle weight | 3,600 kgcorrect |
Drivetrain and chassis
| Gears | 4correct |
|---|---|
| Wheels | 4correct |
Where this model stands
Power-to-weight ratio: 25.9 kW/t (68 kW / 2.6 t)
Stronger than 1% of the trucks over 7.5 t in the register — out of 25,424 models with a stated power figure.
Calculated from the documented figures above — not a rating.
Frequently asked questions
How much power does the Dodge WC 51 have?
The Dodge WC 51 delivers 68 kW.
How much does the Dodge WC 51 weigh?
The unladen weight is 2,630 kg.
What is the gross vehicle weight of the Dodge WC 51?
3,600 kg.
What engine does the Dodge WC 51 have?
6 cylinders, 3,650 cm³ displacement.
What are the dimensions of the Dodge WC 51?
4,450 mm × 2,200 mm.
When was the Dodge WC 51 built?
Production years: 1942-1944.
What to check before buying
- Check the hour meter against the service records — a replaced instrument is the most common gap.
- Compare the data plate and chassis number with the papers.
- Check the weights in the papers against the figures here — attachments change them.
- Ask about parts availability for this build year — the running costs hang on it.
A general list for this type of machine — no substitute for an inspection or an appraiser.
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This page carries 13 individual figures for this model. They come from 1 recorded source; every figure can be traced there. What we cannot document is not here — we leave gaps open rather than estimate them.
The technical data on this page comes from official vehicle registration records (RDW/Traficom), not from the manufacturer.
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Other models in this series
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Truck in 3D section
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