The 1971 Dodge W200 Power Wagon 4×4 carries a story of resilience that few vintage pickups can match. Once part of the Oregon Department of Forestry fleet, this truck narrowly survived a barn fire in 2021. Following its rescue, a thorough refurbishment returned the Sweptline body to its former glory. It now wears a vibrant red finish and features a modernized interior. This truck proves that classic utility vehicles can find a second life even after a total loss declaration.
Exterior Restoration and Fire Survival
The fire in southwestern Oregon caused significant damage, melting the original grille and cab lights. Consequently, the insurance company totaled the vehicle due to a lack of replacement parts. However, the seller undertook a massive restoration that concluded in early 2025. They stripped the body and applied fresh red paint while powdercoating the bumpers in black. A Braden winch remains mounted to the front, signaling the truck’s heavy-duty roots and forestry heritage.
Off-Road Upgrades and Modern Stance
This 1971 Dodge W200 Power Wagon 4×4 sits high on a lifted suspension using aftermarket leaf springs. Black 17-inch American Racing Baja wheels provide a modern look while maintaining a rugged aesthetic. These wheels are paired with 33-inch Nitto Ridge Grappler tires for superior off-road traction. Both the suspension and the braking system were overhauled around 2021. Power steering and power brakes make this vintage giant surprisingly manageable during a weekend cruise.
Custom Houndstooth Cabin Refresh
The interior received a stylistic upgrade with black vinyl and red-and-black houndstooth inserts on the seat. Dynamat insulation was installed beneath new carpeting to quiet the cabin during operation. A custom headliner with diamond-pattern stitching adds a touch of craftsmanship to the ceiling. The seller also replaced the weatherstripping, seatbelts, and the heater core. While the AM radio is currently inoperable, the tactile feel of the cabin is significantly improved over the stock setup.
Fuel System and Safety Updates
Safety and practicality drove several of the mechanical choices during the cabin’s refresh. Most importantly, the fuel tank was moved from behind the seat to dual 25-gallon tanks under the bed. This relocation increases range while removing gasoline fumes from the interior space. A manual selector switch near the driver’s seat allows for easy management between the two reservoirs. This setup makes the truck much more suitable for long-distance driving or extended trail work.
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383ci V8 Power and Drivetrain
A 383ci V8 engine provides the heartbeat for this machine, originally rated at 258 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque. Recent maintenance in 2025 included a carburetor rebuild and the installation of an electronic ignition system. Power reaches the wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Both the transmission and the transfer case were rebuilt in 2021 to ensure durability. A limited-slip rear differential helps the truck maintain traction in difficult Oregon terrain.
Summary of the W200 Journey
The 1971 Dodge W200 Power Wagon 4×4 stands as a testament to dedicated automotive preservation. Although it carries a reconstructed title, the quality of the recent refurbishment is evident in every red body panel. It successfully blends the utility of a winch-equipped forestry truck with the comfort of a custom interior. This Sweptline Dodge offers a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of Pacific Northwest history. It remains a capable, striking example of American four-wheel-drive engineering.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
