Automotive enthusiasts and history buffs can now experience a remarkable piece of transportation heritage at the DFW Car and Toy Museum, where a fully restored 1929 Chevrolet Series LQ International Wrecker provides an immersive look into early industrial vehicle design and functionality.
The wrecker, refurbished in 2019, represents more than just a vintage vehicle; it is a tangible representation of technological innovation from an era when automotive engineering was rapidly evolving. Powered by a 194-cubic-inch inline-six engine and equipped with a three-speed manual transmission, this 1½-ton vehicle exemplifies the robust engineering of its time.
Museum visitors can examine the truck's intricate details, including a fully operational Manley boom with a Beebe Bros. five-ton winch, steel front bumper, and period-specific accessories like a Coca-Cola-branded cooler. Perhaps most charming is a sign indicating towing rates of three cents per mile or three chickens, offering a whimsical glimpse into early transportation economics.
The vehicle's interior further transports viewers to another era, featuring a black vinyl bench seat, wood-rimmed steering wheel, and a barrel-style speedometer. Mechanical drum brakes and solid axles with leaf springs demonstrate the fundamental engineering principles that preceded modern automotive technology.
This wrecker serves as more than a static display; it is a living educational artifact that illustrates the technological progression of transportation. For automotive historians, engineers, and curious visitors alike, the vehicle offers insights into the mechanical challenges and innovative solutions of early 20th-century vehicle design.
Located in North Fort Worth, the DFW Car and Toy Museum provides visitors with an opportunity to explore this remarkable piece of automotive history alongside an extensive collection of classic cars and toys. The museum's commitment to preserving and showcasing such vehicles ensures that future generations can appreciate the engineering and cultural significance of early automotive technology.
