Posted by bdk on August 22, 2000 at 13:10:35:
In Reply to: 1944 Dodge Military Ambulance...Whats its approximate value? posted by S. Bear on August 22, 2000 at 12:20:37:
A restored one is probably worth $7,000-$12,000 depending upon if you buy it from a private party or a dealer, and whether or not it is a ground-up (frame off) restoration.
If it is truly complete, including all the interior furnishings, I would suggest a value of $3,000-$4,000 given average mechanical condition (lots of leaks but runs, maybe smokes a little).
If it runs well, but is missing some of the interior furnishings, I would suggest a value of about $2,000-$3,000.
I bought my WC-54 two years ago for $1250 in non-running condition. It's hard to find good parts for the WW-2 Dodge trucks (many of which are common between models), but Ambulance parts are even more difficult to find.
Often missing and hard to find parts include the rear step, toolboxes, rear fold-down seats, litter brackets, and front seats. Most of these parts were dumped to make the interior more van-like, and the front seats usually get pitched in favor of more comfortable van seats.
Look for rust in the windshield frame, above the rain gutters, in the lower parts of the body, the floorboard area, and at the rear of the front fenders. My ambulance has been in inland California all its life, yet 58 years outside has still taken its toll!
Check out my WW-2 Dodge Ambulance website for specifics on your new acquisition as well as pictures of the unique Ambulance parts I've mentioned.
Brandon