30DodgePanel

#1 looks like a 30-31 DB Phaeton or Roadster style. It looks very similar to the same radiator as number 2 only missing some parts and in better condition.

Yeah I ran that by the current owner (Bob) and what you have suggested seems the most logical way to turn but the part your missing (or maybe I'm wording it wrong) is : As I said previously the Build record request form supplied by the Chrysler Museum * "requires PROOF of ownership on ALL build record requests" The current owner has a clear Massachussets title, however, it's still in the Massachusetts owners name so the guy I'm trying to buy it from (in California) can't prove he is the owner which is what the museum requires in order to secure build records and the CA DMV won't grant title with only a frame number to work off of. Now you see why I want to talk to a live body at the Museum today . Oh, I think it's 8:04am Central time. Time to give them a jingle

Took the words right out of my mouth. Actually mine were "Wow, that thing is beautiful"... Very nice car. Enjoy Kevin, you've earned it

Just guessing but what the heck, I'll take a stab at it and hope it helps somehow. Pics 1 & 2 look like early 40's Jeep pedals. 3 looks like the upper inner shroud piece over a front grille right below where the hood rests, looks like an early 50's design. 4 looks like a right side drive floor panel with the dimmer switch on the right and the 2 metal protrusions would have held the accelerator pedal in place I would think, the hole in the middle on the left looks like where the tranny gear shift would have came up from. Hope that helps, good luck.

George, I don't know but I hope to have some answers tomorrow if I can get in touch with someone who knows at the museum. I'd email or send other info but I just want to find out from a live body what steps need to be done now. Hey look what I just bought : Dodge Brothers truck hood emblem..rare! | eBay :D:D:D hey, it's a start ...

Thanks for that information 29, every bit helps. I may call on you in the future so stay close.

George no don't be, it's great information and thanks for posting it, I've read your threads and others about similar year and serial numbered DB trucks and I learn something new from every post. If I don't respond with discussion about it right away it's only cause I'm busy with work, family stuff, shop stuff or sifting through the information everyone is putting forth, and so far theres alot for me to digest and make note of and I appreciate it. I've been wondering which one of those parts list books on Ebay (and other locations) I should be considering but this will definately help in my decision when it comes time. Just don't want to duplicate purchases right now which again touches on that whole "consolidate my efforts comment" previously. Like Jason, I too want the original books for many reasons, one being the history and nostalgia but for many other reasons as well but the copied versions are something I'm watching and studying to see which one is more correct for the truck I'm interested in. I called the Chrysler museum today but the person I was trying to contact will be out till tomorrow. Basically I'm trying to find out what our options are at this point and see if they can suggest anything. It's a catch 22 right now because the CA DMV won't award title for the truck without proving it's a vehicle first. The truck didn't have the engine in it so they wouldn't verify it as a vehicle. The DMV requires verification on all out of state vehicles so as you can see the current owner is running into this snag. The truck came from Massachusetts (and is a clear title). The other part of that is that the Chrysler museum offers to send a build card for $25 on requests for trucks but the problem is according to the build request requirments it reads "Proof of ownership is required on all build record requests". See this form for explanation under Build Request next to the asterick*: http://wpchryslermuseum.org/document.doc?id=34 So.... anyone have any suggestions ?

OK ! Now I can't sleep.... This statement has been bugging me since I've read it and was wondering if you could post a pic of this information when you get time? No rush, but I was wondering if you can scan a photo of this info somehow for us and allude to the publisher for documentation purposes? I just want to see if there is anything else that may lend a clue in order to securing a title in which this may be documentary proof. Please show us the front cover, the page number and what the exact verbage is if you would. This time period it speaks of is VERY VERY crucial I believe. I thought I read somewhere that the cutoff date for Chrysler production models OR for the following years models was June or July ? So, prior to Sept 1930 but after Oct 1929 would obviously mean it's a 1930 which we agree on correct ??! I just wonder if a copy of that very documentation would be handy for the current owner to take to the CA DMV in order to secure a title since we don't have a motor for it yet? Or at least help the DMV along somehow ????... after all,,,, they do like their paperwork on the government level. Just thinking, if it's documentation from the manufacturer and showing the exact time frame for the serial number perameters, then why wouldn't they accept it or at least consider it ? Please understand, I'm just searching anywhere and trying anything at this point. Thanks for any feedback and again, no rush. Gotta be up at 4 now :eek:. Good night

That would take all the fun out of it though Bob . Like the old saying goes "anything worth a damn is worth working hard for"... or something like that. Any luck ? Tranny photos or the spare tire mount I mean ? No rush, just when you get time. Post here or there, I'm sure you know what is better. I'm just curious to what you find out and obviously excited about the venture.

George, the thread was only created today so unless you took an all day Sunday nap (which should be prohibited on a Dodge Brothers forum by the way ) then you haven't missed much. I want to apologize in advance though because I know I have many questions for you and others who own trucks from this era and I know we can all learn a great deal from all of our searching collectively. A few key points I'd like to know that have my curiousity already are: What is your windshield design IE brackets to open it with on the driver and passenger side pillars, windshield wiper mechanism, the spare tire mount setup - was it in the rear below the bed or on the sides? The logo's and emblems and locations etc... just to name a few but I'm sure that will all be covered in due time. For now it seems like the more likely year and engine for this particular truck and most from this time frame is leaning towards being a 1930 with a Plymouth U from all indications. Again, I'll try to get some pics of the tranny to secure this possible proof asap.

Since 47 ? Wow, that's inspirational to say the least. Nice job Mike. Oh by the way, tell the new neighbor (if you have any) you'll be passing out ear plugs soon so if he needs them just stop over and grab a pair then watch the look on his face :eek:. That'll break em in right . Just kidding, gotta respect the neighbors for sure. Again, very inspiring.

I'm confident in that as well Jason Ray, thanks that means alot to me. Been reading a library rental recently called "The Official Book of the Antique Automobile Club of America" by Robert C. Lichty (yeah, the AACA history and Bible from what I can tell) and the minute I opened it up it was as if I was being told to have great respect from the onset, and also to have a great admiration and honor for those who started and who have continued the hobby to what it is today no matter what kind of classic it is or, from what country for that matter. All car and truck makers throughout history have played a key and vital role in making this great hobby what has always been, both in the beginning, and even now. I've read many topics recently on these forums and seen the frustration from old timers and true collectors of some of the negatives that have occured in the recent years but I have to say, there is a new breed of young men and women who have a deep respect to see this passion continue for many reasons both individually and collectively, I for one believe or should I say hope to one day be part of this group with dignity and respect. So, this Panel truck mission will surely be a good one and the fun has truely only just begun. Honestly this is only the beginning. Out of this effort I know that we all learn, we all seek and search for fun and enjoyment out of life and this hobby has graciously allowed many to grab hold and enjoy the ride from what I have learned, I just want to be part of the fun now before it's too late. If theres no 28-32's in heaven I'm gonna have a real problem...

Yes, no doubt that will be one of the first things to do. Have some of the contacts saved that others on the board have passed along to me and will get that ball moving forward next week, although I will pick and choose where I tie in at because I really want to be able to consolidate my efforts on these Panels exclusively if at all possible but I realize I may have to broaden my horizons/our horizons in order to maximize the information available from ALL avenues. I know that just listening to what others with experience and a deep love for these cars/trucks have to say will be key. Besides I really don't want to waste anyones time if they are more into roadsters and coupes for example. I love all of them but the Panel is in my blood. Always has been. Thanks again for all the info and advice.

Which is one of the reasons why I'm so interested in them . Seems all I've done for the last year is read, read, read and just trying to soak it all in enough to get to this point. I love it because there isn't a day goes by that some new relevant information is added and if I miss a day, well ...... I find the more I learn about others DB cars and trucks on this forum the more honored I feel to have the opportunity as I said since the trucks are so rare. I really don't care if the popularity isn't there more fun looking for parts and the whole experience than any cookie cutter can supply anyway. JMO My brother and I are in it for the long haul and as I said, no desire to sale so a "quick flip" is forbidden as per our written and verbal agreement and we realize going in this will be one of the most challenging tasks we've ever taken on. I'm sure it will test our patience and endurance at times and I gave it some thought when I had the 30 Chrysler but my heart wasn't into the Chrysler so I decided to part ways and search for something I knew we'd all enjoy more. We'll be concentrating on as many details as possible from correct parts and engine series to the final color and tires and hopefully one day be able to drive her with pride. :cool: When we do, this forum will be the first to know

Photo of the Chrysler was a 1930 3 window business coupe with wood wheels no rumble seat that I purchased a few years back. I was offered a dollar amount that helped me use the funds to add onto my shop and prepare for my hobby. The car is in good hands from what I was told by the owner that bought it from me so don't be surprised to see it on the road again someday. Miss that car... Funny thing, every age group that seen that car fell in love with it, everyone from 4 years of age to 90 years of age. That to me, proves it was a true classic. As for the Dodge Panel it's a family project so we have many eyes, ears and pockets on the subject as we speak trying to lock down information, parts, literature and the usual in order to properly restore her to her original beauty. The learning is the best part, but the search and the history is incredible and very addictive. I've always liked the 28-32 era just about any make but I really love this Dodge Panel the best and consider it just an honor for the opportunity and hope to patiently year after year restore it to all original. Pockets aren't deep though so it will take time and patience, alot of studying and alot of hard work (as the pics indicate ) but yeah, original is the only way for me. I've owned several old and new cars over the years and kept them all original because I just don't think it's right to mess with perfection. Whether it's a 327 Impala, 68 3/4 Chevy Camper Special, 03 Dodge Ram with a Hemi or a 1930 Chrysler or 30 Panel. Just my opinion but I've never been much into rodding or chopping but I do realize the truck on topic will need some SERIOUS metal work from what I can tell. Been stocking up on tools and learning as much as I can for the last 5 years and feel I'm ready to tackle this because of my preparedness and desire, willingness to learn and take advice from others. Just an old soul wanting to learn By the way, our plans are not to sale it when complete. My Brother and I have come to an agreement that we will keep it in the family for years to come.

Wow that's great ! Thanks again for taking the time, I know it's alot of work but I really appreciate it. Man, I'd love to find that book someday. You mind if I ask where you found it ?

Don't know about the passenger seat. I always thought it was mounted maybe the current owner will pop in and help in regards to the tranny and passenger seat since he still has the truck. Still need to straigten out the title and get transported so I don't have anything to go off other than the photos of the truck he sent me. Heres the rest of the pics:

Ok, thanks for that VERY helpful info. How about pics of the interior ? Does the book by chance show any pics of any 3/4 ton Panels with the same interior dash, door or cargo design ? See cargo photos below. Note the blue one is a 1/2 ton 29 or 30 I found on the net (Beautiful truck!). Also note the vertical ribs on the interior of the rear doors, I would think that would be a tell...

If I know you and that book there will be some real nuggets coming soon . Thanks again for the help Jason

I do now What I have yet to figure out though is all the serial engine info and abbreviations such as DA, DB, U etc... I understand they are model designations but yet to understand what the letters stand for.

Current owner measured the wheelbase to 124". He has the tranny so let me know if this doesn't work and I can email him for pics of it? Heres the door panel, dash, interior and engine compartment etc... let me know if you need more. Thanks Jason

Hi everyone my name is Dave and I'm a Dodgeaholic (HI DAVE:rolleyes:!) just trying to find info on a Dodge Brothers truck and trying to secure the correct year according to the frame. It's either a 1930, or 31 from all info we've found. The truck is a 3/4 ton Panel truck with the frame #D231751. No engine in the truck but we believe it to be either the DA 6 or Plymouth U 4. Trying to secure a title for the CA DMV Does anyone have this book and if so can you please help locate the year the serial number falls under in this parts book and which engine would have been the more obvious motor installed? See pic below: Any help is appreciated

To anyone reading this thread it may appear that I'm trying to control this thread but I have a serious interest in purchasing the vehicle in question and my intentions are to help in securing title for the purchase, as well as finding useful information for anyone else interested in pre 33 Panel trucks since this information is so limited as we all know. I'm hoping the following may be useful to anyone helping in this search: Yesterday while doing some digging at the library according to a book "American light duty trucks 1896-1986 by John Grunnell" I found a slice of info that I believe is relevant and may help in some way. It was a ref only book and I was in a hurry and only took brief notes without using a copying machine but heres what it said in general: "1930 Dodge Panel 3/4 ton U1-8-124 had 6 different body styles" . Then it goes onto say "DA's were the same as the U series only difference was they used a 6 cyl" and more... " The 1931 3/4 ton Panels were the same as the 1930's except there was no price reduction as with the rest of the lineup for this year". The reason I bring this up is the key phrase that may be helpful "6 different body styles". Can anyone ellaborate if they've found any photos on the 6 body styles? And can you find any interior or exterior photos of the truck on topic ? Again, when viewing the pic that I posted in Post #7 above, the interior is very distinct for this Panel Truck on topic and different from other trucks we've seen. It has 2 seats, with the passenger being more like a bleacher seat. The back doors have vertical grooves and 2 locking mechanisms, vertical and horizontal wood framed walls lined with metal exterior panels and lower wheel well metal panels on the interior, with wood floor and metal strips. I'm guessing the passenger seat was optional and if I recall I read somewhere it was an option for an additional $20. ***NOTE see left photo below showing 4 vertical wood frame support slats on each side of cargo space of truck on topic and note the passenger seat is missing the upper cushion but clearly shows the 2 vertical backrest supports. Post # 7 pic is of a larger panel truck with 5 or 6 vertical wood support slats (1 ton maybe ?) Again, I'm only putting this information out there for possible clues in hopes for answers and I apologize to Bob and everyone if it seems I'm trying to control this thread which is not my intention at all, I just want to get the year and serial number in question locked down. If anyone out there has any info to add that you think will help then please respond. The following are photos that Bob has sent me for my research and have proved very helpful, thanks again Bob. The pics of drivers door and dash are to hopefully help in clues as well.

Stakeside, So by this quote highlighted below in blue are you saying the serial number in question D231751 for the panel truck on topic is a possible "E" series truck ? Ok, now I'm really confused, I thought it was a D series because of the frame numbers...HELP!:confused: I know this book in the photo below is for mid 1928 Grahams and 29 Dodge Brothers 3/4 ton series E trucks but would the frame number in question be listed in this book ? I don't know how that would be possible unless the panel truck in question is a late 29 or early 30. Anybody out there have this book and do you find the frame number in question D231751 listed in there ?

Keiser, stakeside thanks that's very helpful. Bear with me a second though, I now see what makes a DA 6 because of the generator being belt driven but am still unclear on a couple of things. 1.) Is the Plymouth 4 cyl in the photo above the correct U 4 motor that would have been a possible option for this panel truck on topic ? 2.) Also, I understand the letters DA, DD, U etc...to be model designations but still have no clue what that means. It still doesn't explain the abbreviations DA , DD, U , X , T and all the others so I'm wondering if anyone has any info on what the letters stand for ? Still very confusing from a beginners stand point. Can anyone direct me to a page that describes the verbage of the abbreviations in detail or post a pic explaining the system ? I know we are only concerned about the DA 6 and the U 4 motor for a possibility for this truck on topic but I would really like to learn the system as we go along. Thanks for any help