Some builds are born out of necessity, while others emerge from pure passion. The Race Tractor is a perfect example of the latter—a stunning fusion of vintage heritage and modern off-road performance. What started as a 1951 Dodge Power Wagon has evolved into an Ultra4-style beast, thanks to the vision and determination of Jeremy Benson. So, here the story from a Power Wagon to Race Tractor: The transformation of a legend.
The Beginning of a Unique Journey
Jeremy Benson, an off-road enthusiast from Bellingham, Washington, came across an old 1951 Dodge Power Wagon abandoned in the Cascade Mountains, east of Seattle. The moment he heard about it, he knew he had to make it his own. However, what began as a simple restoration project soon took on a life of its own.
Upon bringing the truck home and stripping it down, Jeremy quickly realized that the extensive wear and tear made a full restoration impractical. But instead of giving up, he decided to take a different approach—one that would turn the classic pickup into something truly extraordinary. With a first-generation 5.9L Cummins 12-valve diesel engine from a 1992 Dodge pickup and an NV4500 manual transmission from a 1998 Dodge, he had the perfect foundation for his vision.
A New Identity: From Classic to Ultra4
Having spent years working on Jeeps and participating in off-road events, including serving as a rescue volunteer at King of the Hammers in 2011, Jeremy was deeply inspired by Ultra4 racing. He decided to build a rig capable of tackling extreme terrains—one that embodied both ruggedness and performance.
The transformation began with a custom-built tubular chassis, keeping only the original cab from the Power Wagon. The result was a vehicle with the soul of a vintage Dodge but the capability of a modern Ultra4 racer.
Engineering and Performance Enhancements
To handle extreme off-road conditions, Jeremy equipped the Race Tractor with a high-performance suspension and drivetrain setup.
– Axles: A Dana 60 front axle with a Ford pinion, paired with a GM Corporate 14 Bolt rear axle, ensuring durability and strength.
– Suspension: A 4-link system in both the front and rear, with Fox Factory Race coilovers and triple bypass shocks for maximum control and stability.
– Tires & Wheels: Massive 40-inch Nitto Trail Grappler tires mounted on 17-inch Trailready HD wheels provide unparalleled traction.
– Braking & Steering: The truck features GM and Ford brake components, as well as a PSC hydraulic steering system for precise maneuverability.
– Powertrain: The Cummins diesel engine, upgraded with a high-performance injection pump, 50hp injectors, and an HE351 CW turbo, delivers an impressive 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.
– Transmission: The NV4500HD manual transmission, upgraded with a heavy-duty Valair input shaft, ensures reliable power delivery, while an Atlas II transfer case with race gears provides optimal torque distribution.
Proven on the Trail
While the Race Tractor never competed at King of the Hammers, Jeremy put it to the test in another grueling event—the NORRA Mexican 1000. Competing in the Ultra4 class, he not only completed the race but secured an impressive third-place finish, proving the truck’s capability and resilience.
More Than Just a Race Truck
Despite its aggressive build, the Race Tractor isn’t confined to the racecourse. Jeremy enjoys using it for everyday adventures, from picking up his kids at school to exploring the rugged trails of Whatcom County. For him, this build represents more than just off-road performance—it’s a celebration of American automotive culture, blending vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering. The Race Tractor stands as a testament to what passion, creativity, and technical expertise can achieve. It’s not just a truck; it’s a rolling piece of history reimagined for the modern era.
