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Trucks on Display

 

Below is a sampling of the many trucks on display in our Trucking Hall of Fame® Exhibit Hall.

1949 Brockway


Engine Type:
579 Cubic Inch Continental Gas

Transmission Type:
5 Speeds and 2-Speed Rear Axle

Truck Information:
Brockways, like this 1949 model, were viewed as top-of-the-line trucks during their time. Built in Cortland, New York, they were considered a custom truck like the Kenworths and Peterbilts on the west coast. It has a wood cab and the typical Brockway grill, which is highly ornamental and difficult to make. There is still a starter crank hold. You probably couldn’t start this engine with a crank, but you could turn it over to set the timing. The valves did not have hydraulic lifters, so you set the valve clearance by hand. On an unrestored truck like this, you can see the faults in the truck’s construction. It is rusted out in places like the windshield frame. There was a problem with the drainage; water sat there all the time. Furthermore, the hinges are exposed. While that makes for quick-and-easy construction, it’s not the best for longevity of the hinge. The hood is also exposed, and the paint is faded and falling off. Still, there is a lot of metal left and a surprising lack of holes; it isn’t rusted through like a lot of old unrestored trucks we find. Construction of this truck was pretty basic – the fenders don’t even have a rolled edge with a wire in it. Lots of fenders were rolled under and that would make it look more finished, more attractive. This truck doesn’t have that, so it didn’t have a place for salt and water to collect which has helped its longevity. Top Speed: 55 MPH



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