Comeback Crew - Classic Restomod Dodge D-350
Truck Trend|July - August 2019

When it comes to the discussion of Dodge trucks, people generally have mixed opinions.

Fuelish Media
Comeback Crew - Classic Restomod Dodge D-350

Out of the Big Three from Detroit, Dodge has always received the short end of the stick in the popularity department. Some of mixed approval ratings may come from the truck’s bold design, but we think that’s what makes these trucks more distinctive from the rest. Yes, the counterparts to these trucks have good looks and are great for utility, but D-series trucks are very comparable models as well.

Starting in 1961, the Dodge offered these D-series trucks with an optional crew-cab configuration. Another offering was the Hemi engine, which is known for its incredible power capabilities. These innovations preceded what the competition had, yet Dodge trucks never became the leader of the pack. There is, however, a resurgence of fans who are helping to give these trucks a major comeback. One of the things driving this movement is the popularity of diesel trucks. This scene is made up of die-hard enthusiasts who stand behind many notable diesel engines. Although the crew-cab model was nixed in 1985, the 1989 Dodge Ram lineup had an optional 5.9L 6BT Cummins engine, which was derived from commercial vehicles and is now idolized as one of the greats.

Humberto Ortiz of Vulcan Specialties in Lubbock, Texas, is a huge fan of Dodge trucks because they’re different and stand out from the crowd. With a background in building hot rods and race cars, Humberto started work on his own 1937 Dodge that was chopped, channeled, and even had an early Hemi engine along with a custom chassis. As life went on, he and his wife became parents of two kids; this had a big effect on his approach to projects, including his hot rod pickup. Though his truck was going to be a real crowd-pleaser, he knew the whole family would not be able to enjoy it, as the truck only has two seats.

This story is from the July - August 2019 edition of Truck Trend.

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This story is from the July - August 2019 edition of Truck Trend.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.