DFW Car & Toy Museum Unveils 1946 Maxim Street Rod 'Red Screamer' Custom Pickup

The DFW Car & Toy Museum has unveiled the 1946 Maxim Street Rod "Red Screamer" Custom Pickup, now on display as part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection. This bold custom creation represents a fusion of heavy-duty engineering and hot rod flair, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience extreme craftsmanship and diesel-powered muscle firsthand.

The one-of-a-kind machine combines a 1946 Ford pickup cab with a custom-fabricated steel frame and a massive 736 cubic-inch Detroit Diesel 8V92 two-stroke V8 engine. The engine is equipped with both a turbocharger and scavenger blower, producing an estimated 430 horsepower and a colossal 1,186 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an Allison four-speed automatic transmission and a Rockwell rear end with 4.64:1 gearing.

The Maxim retains heavy-duty commercial components including power steering, heavy-duty axles, and air brakes, giving this street rod the capability and stopping power of a commercial vehicle. The chassis rides on 24.5" alloy wheels and features a custom suicide front end with semi-elliptical leaf springs, including a custom spring rated for approximately 5,000 pounds, achieving a perfect balance of stance and strength.

Visually, the truck makes an equally impressive statement, stretching approximately 21 feet long and over 8 feet wide. The design includes a polished tonneau, white flourishes over the deep red exterior, split windshield, chrome headlight housings, and dual air horns. Additional distinctive features include side-mounted cylindrical fuel tanks, a "flying eyeball" painted on the rear differential cover, and an aggressive dual 5-inch exhaust system that completes the truck's bold presence.

Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the unique nature of this vehicle, stating that its sound, size, and pure spectacle turn heads everywhere it goes. He described it as a perfect example of the creativity and engineering passion celebrated in the automotive world. The museum, located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth, Texas, features more than 200 collector vehicles and 3,000 rare toys and memorabilia items. Visitors can find more information about the museum and its collections at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

The unveiling of the "Red Screamer" represents significant implications for automotive enthusiasts and the custom vehicle industry, demonstrating how traditional hot rod concepts can be reimagined with heavy-duty diesel power and commercial-grade components. This innovation showcases the continuing evolution of custom automotive craftsmanship and provides inspiration for builders seeking to push engineering boundaries while maintaining aesthetic appeal.