1944 Ford V3000S/SSM 'Maultier' (Sd.Kfz.3b)
Few vehicles evoke the ingenuity and hardship of the Eastern Front like the Ford V3000S/SSM “Maultier.” This rare half-track, designed to overcome the treacherous terrain of the Second World War, has become one of the most elusive and respected logistical vehicles of its era. And now, a truly exceptional example, is restored with accuracy, a strong eye for detail and deep historical respect.
Location
United Kingdom
Year of construction
1944
Country of origin
Germany
Manufacturer
Ford-Werke GmbH, Cologne, Germany
Type
Sd.Kfz.3b
Condition
Class A restored and in great condition
Starting bid
€ 22.000
Margin Goods
Yes margin goods;
No VAT applicable
Details
Conditions
A Masterclass in Restoration and Wartime Heritage
The story begins in the Munich area in Germany, where the chassis of this Maultier was discovered. Remarkably, it still retained its original wartime Ford engine and 5-speed gearbox, along with the front grille and other small but vital components. Faint traces of its original paint whispered of its service history, and those whispers became the beginning of a six-year odyssey to bring it back to life.
Over the course of six years, the owner scoured Europe for authentic parts, uncovering elusive components like the correct rear idlers, original drive sprockets, and an authentic wartime Einheitsfahrerhaus (standard cab) sourced from Poland. All visible bodywork, including the bonnet, underwing grilles, and bulkhead, are period-correct and wartime original. Even the interior insulation, once made of pressed paper, was meticulously recreated in collaboration with specialists.
Based on unique engine characteristics, the mounted magneto, and the presence of a front-mounted towing hook, it is believed that this Maultier was built in December 1944 or January 1945—one of the final examples produced during the war. The original and period correct cab was sadly too far gone to restore, but served as a direct reference for an exact replica, down to the finest detail, including faithfully recreated wartime transfer decals.
The heart of the vehicle, the engine, is no ordinary Ford V8. This is the rare German-built version, cast during wartime in a Ford factory within the Third Reich. It carries subtle but defining features, such as the cast “G” (for Germany), setting it apart from its American, Canadian, or British counterparts. Both engine and gearbox were fully stripped, inspected, and rebuilt to original specification, as were all other mechanical systems: suspension, brakes, steering, and drivetrain.
The original higher-mounted radiator, unique to late-war models, was retained, as was the additional crossmember that was added during field trials to prevent frame flexing under rough conditions. The spring set was entirely re-manufactured, as the originals had weakened with age and no longer provided proper suspension performance.
In true authentic wartime fashion, a pair of top-hood vents were added to counter engine overheating—just like the original late-1944 modifications. The vehicle is also equipped with period-correct pioneer tools and fittings, while the tracks are newly produced with fresh pins to ensure proper function; the original Pz 1 tracks which were found were too worn and caused drive issues due to excessive stretch.
The vehicle’s frame remains original, with all rivets and bolts true to factory specification. While the rear cargo body is newly built, it is a faithful replica based on a surviving original bed, constructed using the correct type of wood, hardware, and mounting points. Features such as the side hangers, fold-down tailgate steps, and the structural bow supports were reproduced with reference to original photos and components. The canvas tilt—correct in shape, color, and wartime material specification—is currently in production and will be included in the sale upon completion. It will feature the correct windows, leather straps, and buckles, using authentic Ford-colored canvas sourced from Belgium.
Although the vehicle is not yet road-registered, it retains its original chassis number, offering a solid base for future registration if desired.
This restoration is far more than a rebuild—it’s an act of dedication. It reflects a deep commitment to preserving military heritage with historical accuracy at every turn. Opportunities to acquire a Ford Maultier of this caliber are exceptionally rare. This is history brought to life with knowledge, skill, and passion.
Technical details
- Manufacturer
- Ford-Werke GmbH, Cologne, Germany
- Model
- V3000S/SSM 'Maultier'
- Manufacturing date
- 1944
- Serial number
- 555465
- Length
- 20 ft 11 in (6,38 m)
- Width
- 7 ft 4,6 in (2,25 m)
- Height
- 6 ft 10,7 in (2,1 m)
- Weight
- 8.510 lb (3.860 kg)
- Max. speed
- 37 mph (60 km/h)
- Operational range
- Approx 100 mi (160 km)
- Engine
- German Ford V8 3.6-litre petrol engine
- Crew
- 2
- Production numbers
- 14-15.000
- Road registration
- No, but it retains its original chassis number, offering a solid base for future registration if desired.
History
The official name of this Ford vehicle was Gleisketten-Lastkraftwagen 2 t (Maultier) Ford Aktiengesellschaft Köln type V3000 S/SSM. The Sonder-Kraftfahrzeug designation of this vehicle was Sd.Kfz.3b. The Ford being produced in Germany at Fords plant in Koln is different from other European production and American produced vehicles. The Koln site produced its own style of vehicle with cabins engines gearboxes etc all produced to German specifications. The Ford V3000S/SSM “Maultier” (German for “mule”) was developed by the German Wehrmacht as a practical response to the harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions of the Eastern Front during World War II. Based on the reliable Ford V3000S 3-ton truck chassis and produced by Ford-Werke GmbH in Cologne, this half-track vehicle combined conventional front wheels with a tracked rear axle—creating a highly capable logistical solution in mud, snow, and ice where regular wheeled trucks failed.
The Engine is a Koln produced V8 of 3.9 Ltr connected to a 5 speed gearbox, giving a stated maximum speed of 60 km/h. The Maultier running gear was completed at the factory (it has been stated that field kits for conversion were also supplied) by taking standard truck chassis on the production line and adding the Maultier suspension frame to the truck, moving the rear drive axle from its normal position on the truck further forward to behind the cabin, and adding coil sprung suspension units mounted on a tubular frame with an adjuster idler wheel at the rear and mounting PZ 1 tracks.
The standard truck load bed for cargo was incorporated, although Ambulance versions were also produced. Unarmed by default, some Maultiers were fitted with an MG 34 for defensive purposes. Variants also served as mobile workshops or field ambulances, demonstrating the platform’s versatility.
Among the various manufacturers producing Maultiers, the Ford V3000S/SSM version is particularly prized today for its distinctive V8 grille design and simplified, angular cab. This Einheist Cabin, was produced late in the war as steel became short in supply for German industry. The Einheist cabin being an example of this, produced with a hardwood frame, and hardboard panels, most likely in furniture factories where the necessary skill and machinery already existed.
The exact number of vehicle produced is not known however it is estimated that between 14-15000 Ford Maultier were constructed, however now very few survive. Due to limited surviving examples and the rarity of original parts—especially for the half-track system—these vehicles are highly sought after by collectors and military museums alike.
Note to buyer
LOT NUMBER
Each lot is assigned a specific lot number. This number is allocated one day before the lots are opened for bidding
Specific address details will be provided upon request and to the successful bidder/ Buyer.
VIEWING DAYS
Inspections during viewing days are on: Saturday June 21 2025. (The M36 Jackson 90mm Gun Motor Carriage can only be viewed on Sunday 22 June, 2025).
Participation in the viewing days is subject to specific conditions.
Given the fact that these are often very special items whose condition, no matter how hard we try, cannot always be described 100% completely, we really recommend that you make use of this.
IMPORTANT DATES
Auction catalogue online: May 1st 2025 19.00 (CET)
Bidding starts: Saturday June 21 2025 18.00 (CET)
Bidding ends: Saturday June 28 2025 19.00 (CET)
Times:
Amsterdam NL (CET): 07:00 PM (19:00)
London: 08:00 PM (18:00)
New York USA: 13:00 AM (13:00)
Sydney AUS: 05:00 AM (05:00),next day
BUYER’S PREMIUM
On all lots a buyer’s premium of 16,5% of the hammer price is charged. Over this buyer’s premium a 21% sales tax (VAT) will be applicable.
VEHICLES & VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT
Cars, motorcycles, trucks, cannons or howitzers, armored vehicles, and tanks are sold in as-is condition, with no technical guarantee and guarantee of authenticity and with or without registration.
ARMS & WEAPONS
The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed – has been supplied by the Buyer in full.
If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only.
MARGIN/ VAT
However, for most of the lots 21% sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be not applicable, it might be that in some specific cases sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be charged. In such a case this will be specifically specified in the lot description. For all other lots the margin scheme will be applicable. For more info see our General Conditions of Sale Article 9 on our website; www.tracksandtrade.com
IMPORT & EXPORT
Depending on the destination and content of the Lot the Buyer shall obtain an International Import Certificate / End User Certificate. Some of the items listed in the auction may require special licenses or permits or existing documents must be prepared for export. If this is relevant, Tracks & Trade will take care of this. The applicable costs will be charged to the successful bidder. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. No item will be allowed to be collected without 100% of all legal requirements being fulfilled.
COLLECTION
The date and time of collection of purchased lots shall always be determined by mutual agreement between the buyer and the seller, and only after the full purchase amount has been received by the seller. If the buyer wishes to make extended use of the storage location—for instance, due to permit procedures—the seller may charge additional storage fees. The seller must communicate any such charges to the buyer in advance, allowing the buyer to seek alternative storage arrangements if preferred.
DELIVERY
The buyer is responsible for the transportation of the purchased goods, unless otherwise agreed. Tracks & Trade can assist with or arrange transportation at additional cost. Please contact us for more information.
Shipping, and packing costs and special costs that arise for loading special items, such as crane costs or costs for hiring special equipment etc., will be charged to the Buyer on the basis of actual costs + a surcharge of 10%. Naturally, you can count on us when it comes to the shipment of your purchases. We are happy to take care of that.
STORAGE
If you have any specific questions, please contact us either by telephone (+31 6 518 22 502) or E-mail ([email protected]). We are happy to help and support you through the entire process. We will do our utmost to please and comfort you. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
All information and transactions are subject to the general terms and conditions (Version 2.0 dated 29-04-2022). For more detailed information visit our website.
Shipping Information
After buying a classic military vehicle or other items such as cannons, planes, howitzers and tanks, there are several steps you would typically need to take:
Legalities
In principle, no special permit is required for unarmored wheeled and tracked vehicles. In many cases, an export procedure that is comparable to that for exporting classic cars and motorcycles is sufficient. Military collectables older than 75 years and with a value over Euro 50k are often considered National Heritage. In such cases an export permit must be requested from the National Ministry of Culture of the exporting country. Tanks, howitzers and self-propelled or towed cannons often require specific permits that are highly dependent on the country of shipment and the country of destination. In such a case first ensure that you apply for the necessary permits, licenses, and other paperwork required to own and operate such an item in your jurisdiction. This may involve registering the item with the appropriate authorities and complying with any regulations regarding its ownership and use. In such a case it is advisable to contact us in advance because we have many decades of experience in the import and export of Classic Military Heritage. Based on this experience, we can generally quickly provide feedback on what applies to you. This is especially relevant because regulations in this regard change every now and then and sometimes, we also have to deal with export-restrictions. In short: if you want to be sure, contact us in time to avoid difficulties in a later stage.
Storage
Find a suitable storage location for your collectable, preferably a secure and legal place where you can keep it when not in use. This could be a garage, warehouse, or even a specially designed storage facility or museum.
Transportation
After you have all paperwork in place next step will be the (oversees) transport to your desired location. This may involve hiring specialized transport and broker services due to permits, size and weight. Als in this case we can support you with organizing the transport or make sure you get in contact with some experts.
Maintenance and Restoration
Depending on the condition of your military collectable our partner BAIV can help you with maintenance and restoration work to ensure that it is safe and operational. This could involve relatively easy maintenance and repair, service till a Class-A restoration. In such a case please contact BAIV (link to BAIV website).
Training
If you intend to operate a vehicle then make sure you have manuals that describe how the operate vehicle. Nowadays there are numerous reprints available on the Internet that explain you in a playful way how to drive and operate your vehicle. This is often a team effort, which makes owning such a vehicle extra attractive. If required, you can also involve hiring a professional instructor or attending specialized training courses to learn how to drive and maintain it safely. In such a case, our partner BAIV can also support you.
Insurance
Consider obtaining insurance coverage for your vehicle to protect yourself against any potential accidents or liabilities that may arise from owning and operating it. Often there are specialized insurance companies offering these kinds of services. Local military vehicle clubs often also know their way around the specific options offered by insurance companies.
Enjoyment
Finally, once everything is in place, you can enjoy owning and, if permitted, operating your classic military vehicle, cannon or howitzer. Whether it's for display purposes or for participating in historical reenactments, owning such a great unit can be a unique and rewarding experience.
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