08/18/2026
Check out the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum's 1942 GMC AY 809!
This 1942 GMC AY-809 was originally built as a tanker truck for the Denver Fire Department. It features su***de doors with hinges at the rear and large steps, making it easier to enter the cab while wearing fire gear. The truck is equipped with bomber-style seats reminiscent of those in B-17s and also includes a cab sleeper.
By the time we acquired it, the original fire truck body had been replaced with a flatbed. This vehicle would have made an excellent delivery truck due to its cabover design, su***de doors, and compact length. However, one drawback of cabover trucks is the difficulty in servicing them. The radiator and engine are located just behind the grille, requiring a mechanic to get inside the truck to access the top of the engine. Unlike later cabover models, this one does not have a tilting front; thus, for major repairs, the front bumper and grille must be removed, and the engine extracted from the front. If not, the entire cab must be taken off.
One advantage of cabovers is their short length, which makes them easier to turn and maneuver. Before the advent of interstate highways, many roads were two-lane, and cities typically had four-lane streets. Across the country, there were strict length regulations, with the exception of the western states where there was more flexibility. These length laws were finally relaxed in the 1980s, leading to the decline of cabovers. Sitting directly over the front axle provides a different driving experience, as it can result in a rougher ride.
Engine Type: GMC 6CU 426 Cubic Inch 126 Horsepower
Transmission Type: Spicer 5-Speed Model 553A
Top Speed: 50 MPH
To learn more about the antique trucks in our collection, visit our website: https://iowa80truckingmuseum.com/exhibits/trucks-on-display/
