1950 Studebaker Truck: economy and power built-in-one (Part 1)
The 1950 Studebaker truck was built with two things in mind - economy and power. Economy saved the customers money; power gave the customers the dependability they needed. Studebaker trucks were noted for their low-cost operation. Let's take a look at all the Studebaker truck models for 1950 and see what each had to offer.
Superb development and design
One thing that was noticeable about Studebaker trucks is they were superbly designed and engineered by some of America's finest craftsmen. Studebaker's staff of truck engineers had designed some of the world's most successful military and civilian automobiles. Now, they combined years of planning and experience to develop every truck model for the year 1950. The Studebaker craftsmen were known around the world and endeavored to provide high quality workmanship in each detail.
The Studebaker plant had 22 acres of floor space and top-of-the-line production machinery. The company also had an 800-acre proving ground with water holes, sand traps, stiff grades, and hubcap-deep muck. The trucks were pulled and turned every way possible to ensure good handling while carrying heavy loads.
Studebaker truck models for 1950
Several truck models were available for 1950. Buyers could choose the size and type of truck according to their needs. Trucks were available for heavy hauling, driving on rough terrain, family trucks, farming, product delivery - you name it.
Studebaker half-ton truck
The Studebaker half-ton truck offered a husky design with amazing interior comfort. Among its features (standard and optional) were weather-protected steps that were enclosed inside the doors, a low cab floor for easy entrance, air-scoop floor ventilators that could be operated by foot, rotary door latches with tight grip, variable ratio steering with extra leverage, self-centering and self-adjusting brakes, and automatic "hold-open" door stops. Another feature was its smooth ride with almost a "velvet" feel. It handled, started and stopped with ease. The half-ton truck came with an all purpose body, a 6 1/2-foot stake, and a 6 1/2-foot pick-up truck with a caravan top.
Studebaker three-quarter-ton 8-foot truck
The three-quarter-ton 8-foot truck was noted for its stand-up stamina and outstanding economy. It had a modern design and advanced features to give every driver an easier working day. The cabs were roomy and comfortable. Also, servicing these trucks was simple thanks to a new type of hood with easy accessibility to the engine, ignition and wiring for the instrument panel. This truck was available as a three-quarter-ton truck with a utility panel, a three-quarter-ton 8-foot truck with a stake, and a three-quarter-ton 8-foot pick-up truck with a caravan top.
Studebaker one-ton truck
As a low-cost, high-power truck, the Studebaker one-ton truck would allow buyers to haul hefty loads. It had a solid rugged construction with a K-member frame, very strong springs in the front and rear for comfortable riding, and extremely sturdy rear axles. The one-ton truck was available on a 121-inch or 131-inch wheelbase with models including a one-ton 8-foot or 9-foot stake, a one-ton utility truck, and a one-ton 8-foot pick-up truck.
Studebaker 1 1/2-ton 12-foot truck
The 1 1/2-ton 12-foot truck offered amazing pulling power and staying power. It allowed delivery workers to haul heavy items without paying a fortune for their delivery trucks. These trucks featured a Power-Plus Studebaker truck engine with 102-horsepower at 3400 RPM and 205 pounds-foot of torque. It had an extra K-member frame up front to give added strength and extra frame length for maximum cargo space. Also, the cab offered extra room for comfort, floor ventilation that could be operated by foot, an Adjusto-Air seat cushion, and great visibility from all angles. The 1 1/2-ton truck was available as a milk delivery truck, a truck with closed bottlers, a closed delivery van, or a 12-foot stake.
Studebaker 2-ton truck
For even heavier hauling, the 2-ton truck was available. It was rugged and great for hauling when the going was strenuous. It also had great gas mileage for a truck of its size and with its capabilities. It featured a Power-Plus truck engine with plenty of horsepower and torque to get any large job done. The structure was built tough, but the inside was still comfortable for the driver. The 2-ton truck could be ordered as a dump truck, with a combination stock-grain, or with a 26-foot trailer.
Truck and cab features
The Studebaker truck cab offered many great features for comfort and convenience. The driver had full vision for the front, rear and sides of the truck. Blind spots were virtually eliminated. The interior step enabled the driver to step into the cab instead of "up" and into the cab. This was great for delivery type jobs where the driver got in and out frequently throughout the day. It had walk-in doors, making it easier for drivers to enter the cab. The steps were enclosed to help prevent slipping during wet weather.
The two tunnels, also called air scoops, would carry fresh, cool air from the truck's radiator to both sides of the cab at the floor level. The air came through grilles that could be opened or closed by foot. On the left side, the air scoop also acted as an air intake for the Climatizer. It supplied fresh air to the defroster and heater. The Climatizer was another convenient feature that allowed fresh air heating, ventilating, and defrosting all in one system. It was optional at extra cost. This system circulated warm healthful air throughout the interior on a continual basis, giving the driver warm comfort during winter.
