Custom built shop truck 1946 Dodge Fargo

Halliday Engineering restored and modified a 1946 Dodge Fargo Ute to celebrate our historic 170-year anniversary

With our 170-year anniversary just around the corner it’s a great time to tip our hat to the past. So the latest addition to our vehicle fleet is a 1946 Dodge Fargo we’ve restored and modified. And like our company, this build was all about respecting craftsmanship of the past, and making sure it is fit for the future.

We needed to engineer a better ride than the classic 1946 front and rear leaf springs could offer, so we brought in the right expertise. We engaged a Hot Rod Builder (Roey’s Rod and Customs – Moruya) who upgraded the suspension to an airbag system. Roey also built the backend of the tub and modified tunnel. He welcomed our boiler-making expertise, and we were fortunate enough to spend numerous days working alongside him in his shop.

Our customised tray is our favourite part of the truck. We designed and modelled it in-house with design software (Inventor) so we could visualise how it would look prior to manufacture. This was key to the job as we needed to ensure we honoured the vehicle’s classic contours and lines.

The build

Chrysler 318ci (5.2L) V8
Edelbrock Performance Manifold
4 Barrel Carbie
MSD Ignition
Air Con
Power Steer
Stainless Exhaust (4 into 1 extractors)
Custom Tunnel
JAG front End

4 Link Rear Suspension
Accuair Airbags (allround)
Ford 9 inch differential
Smoothie rims
Retrimmed
Collapsible steering column
Painted and wrapped
Custom rear hinged tray and tubs

View key aspects of the job Get in touch

”The ute was carefully researched and procured locally in Sydney. All panels and body work were free of corrosion and damage. But the suspension and drivability of the ute required creative thinking and innovation. Our objective was simple, build a truck that can reliably service the business and turn heads.

KEY ASPECTS OF THE JOB

Heritage

We’re proud of our history and where the business has come from. We work on many old assets that can be re-engineered and restored, but more importantly upgraded for future use. This project symbolises Halliday Engineering’s story – a respect for the past and a readiness for the future.

Suspension Upgrade

The ute was originally fitted with all-round leaf springs that were not smooth enough for comfort or transporting tools and equipment. So we had 4 x auto levelling airbags fitted. The bags can be programmed to alter the ride height of the ute depending on the terrain and load.

3D Design and Manufacture

Our design software (Inventor) enabled us to design the custom tray in 3D, and produce workshop drawings for manufacture by our fabricators on the shop floor. Doing this in-house enables us to make modifications efficiently as they arise.

Supply Chain

We know when to engage specialist expertise. We matched each aspect of the build with the right skillsets. We always select suppliers carefully and subcontract services that deliver the quality of work we’re happy to put our name next to.