1949 International Harvester KB-1 Half-Ton Pickup

Step back into the postwar era with this 1949 International Harvester KB-1 Half-Ton Pickup. It’s a handsome example of the rugged, honest trucks that helped put America back to work after World War II. The current family bought it from its original owner, a World War II veteran, which preserves a meaningful link to its earliest days. A comprehensive frame-off restoration was completed about 20 years ago, and the quality still shows throughout. The black body contrasts beautifully with deep burgundy fenders, bright chrome, and fresh whitewalls. The truck reportedly spent much of its life in parade and weekend use, and the current owner has added new wiring, a new steering box, and a rebuilt rear end. The result is a charming, show-ready International with real provenance that you can drive and enjoy.

Engine & Transmission

International Harvester L-head inline-six, rebuilt during the frame-off restoration
Beautifully painted, detailed engine compartment
Single carburetor with a heavy-duty air cleaner
Four-blade cooling fan installed for cooler running, with the original fan retained and included
3-speed manual transmission with a column-mounted shifter that keeps the truck’s traditional mechanical character
Single exhaust system

Exterior

Striking black body paired with deep burgundy fenders
Distinctive KB-series styling with rounded fenders and a bold, prominent grille
Solid all-steel body panels that align nicely
Trim, badging, and chrome intact and in excellent condition
No known evidence of rust anywhere on the truck
Beautiful oak bed in excellent condition
Distinctive Knox tailgate
Two side-mounted mirrors
Fresh 6.50-16 whitewall bias-ply 4-ply tires
International chrome hubs that complete the period-correct presentation

Interior

Cab finished in black with green vinyl bench seating
Original gauges that give the cabin an authentic, period-correct feel
Functional heater box
Turn-signal indicator added for safer driving
Driver’s-side windshield wiper
Rubber floor mats with soundproofing installed underneath for a quieter ride

Suspension & Chassis

Comprehensive frame-off restoration completed approximately 20 years ago
Half-ton KB-1 configuration on a 113-inch wheelbase
New steering box installed by the current owner
Rear end rebuilt by the current owner, with the original rear-end components retained and included
New wiring throughout
Exceptionally clean undercarriage with solid floors
Full-size spare tire neatly mounted underneath

Additional Info

Reported two-owner history, acquired by the current family from the original owner, a World War II veteran
Reportedly used mainly for parades and weekend outings
KB series built from 1947 through 1949, giving International Harvester a bold postwar design that set its trucks apart
52,343 miles indicated. The actual total mileage has not been verified, so the displayed figure should not be taken as confirmed original mileage
Includes some documentation and receipts
Includes miscellaneous parts, including an extra KB-1 headlight trim ring in excellent condition
Clean title in the owner’s name
Currently stored in Massachusetts

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