Ivo Rigter Sr.
Fondateur et copropriétaire de BAIV et Tracksandtrade
+31 6 518 22 502 ivosr.rigter@tracksandtrade.comThe legendary GMC CCKW 353 is one of the most iconic and sought-after military trucks of WWII. This particular A2 version features a practical tipping cargo body and a front-mounted winch, making it a particularly interesting and versatile example. While standard GMC cargo trucks were widely used for transporting troops and supplies, tipper versions were especially valuable for engineering duties, road construction, and moving bulk materials. The GMC remains popular among collectors thanks to its reliable mechanics, excellent spare-parts availability, and strong international enthusiast community. With its powerful 6x6 drivetrain, functional tipping body, and recovery winch, this GMC combines genuine WWII history with impressive off-road capabilities and practical usability.
GMC CCKW 353 A2 – WWII 6x6 Tipper Truck with Front Winch
The legendary GMC CCKW 353 is undoubtedly one of the most iconic military trucks of World War II. Nicknamed the “Deuce and a Half” due to its 2.5-ton payload rating, the GMC played a vital role in Allied logistics, transporting troops, ammunition, fuel, and supplies across Europe and beyond.
This particular example is an interesting and practical version, featuring the A2 chassis configuration, a tipping cargo body, and a front-mounted recovery winch.
What Makes This GMC Special?
A2 Configuration
The A2 designation identifies a later chassis configuration within the CCKW family, associated with changes to the axle and suspension arrangement. Unlike the commonly encountered early split-axle configurations, A2 vehicles are associated with the later banjo-type axle arrangement. These developments helped standardize production and simplify maintenance during wartime service.
Tipping Cargo Body
One of the most interesting features of this GMC is its tipping body. While most collectors are familiar with the standard fixed cargo-bed version, tipper configurations were particularly useful for engineering and construction duties.
These trucks could transport and unload sand, gravel, rubble, and other bulk materials, making them valuable for road construction, airfield repairs, and general military engineering operations.
Today, the tipping body adds another dimension to the vehicle, combining the unmistakable appearance of a WWII GMC with genuine practical functionality.
Front-Mounted Winch
The powerful front-mounted winch is another desirable feature. Originally intended for vehicle recovery and difficult terrain, it provides additional versatility when operating off-road or assisting other vehicles.
An Iconic and Practical Collector's Vehicle
The GMC CCKW remains one of the most recognizable and sought-after WWII military trucks among enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
Its straightforward mechanical design, excellent spare-parts availability, relatively affordable maintenance, and strong international enthusiast community make it an attractive entry into the historic military vehicle hobby.
Unlike many other WWII vehicles, the GMC is not only a collector's item but also a genuinely useful truck. Whether attending military vehicle events, participating in historical reenactments, enjoying off-road adventures, or transporting materials on private property, it offers a unique combination of history and practicality.
With its 6x6 drivetrain, functional tipping body, and front recovery winch, this particular GMC offers considerably more versatility than a conventional cargo version.
A fantastic opportunity to own a true piece of Allied military history that can still be put to work today.
History of the GMC CCKW 353
The GMC CCKW, affectionately known as the “Jimmy” and often referred to as the “Truck that Won WWII,” was one of the most important military vehicles of the Second World War. With over 570,000 units produced, this legendary 2.5-ton 6x6 truck became the backbone of Allied logistics. Developed by General Motors' Yellow Truck & Coach Division, it played a crucial role in the famous Red Ball Express, supplying advancing Allied forces in Europe with ammunition, food, fuel, and other essential materials.
The CCKW was renowned for its rugged construction, reliability, and exceptional versatility. Beyond the familiar troop transport and cargo versions, it was adapted for numerous specialized roles, including fuel and water tankers, mobile workshops, artillery tractors, compressor trucks, and engineering vehicles. Tipper versions, such as this particular GMC CCKW 353 A2, were especially useful for construction and engineering duties, transporting and unloading sand, gravel, and rubble for road repairs and airfield construction. Combined with its 6x6 drivetrain and front-mounted recovery winch, the GMC was well-equipped to operate in challenging conditions.
The GMC CCKW served across virtually every major Allied theater of war, from the deserts of North Africa to the muddy roads of Europe and the Pacific. Following WWII, thousands remained in military service or found new lives in civilian applications, particularly in agriculture, construction, and transportation. Thanks to its durability, straightforward mechanics, and impressive capabilities, the GMC CCKW remains one of the most recognizable and beloved military trucks in history.
For collectors and military vehicle enthusiasts, this GMC CCKW 353 A2 offers an excellent opportunity to own a genuine piece of WWII history. Its combination of a practical tipping body, front-mounted winch, and legendary 6x6 drivetrain makes it a particularly attractive and versatile example. Thanks to its straightforward mechanics, excellent spare-parts availability, and strong worldwide enthusiast community, the GMC remains relatively affordable to maintain and enjoyable to own. Whether for military vehicle events, historical reenactments, or practical use, this iconic truck offers a unique combination of history, functionality, and lasting collector appeal.
Ivo Rigter Sr.
Fondateur et copropriétaire de BAIV et Tracksandtrade
+31 6 518 22 502 ivosr.rigter@tracksandtrade.com