Can anyone explain why some 1950 11/2 ton trucks have commercial clearance lights on the cab roof in a pattern of 1-3-1 and other trucks of the same vintage and size have clearance lights on each side of the cab roof but not the center 3 lights? These styles were both in service at the time (pictures) and were both manufacturer equipped. What are their purpose?

Ken,
Good question.
Me being a truck driver and all should now the answer to your question, but i don't. I do know that they are required by law to be working. At least on commercial semi tractors and trailers. with the 1-3-1 pattern being standard.
mabey the light pattern laws changed within a year or so of yours?
My old '50 2 ton didn't have any. there wasn't any sign of them being there either.
i think i'll call the Georgia DOT tommorrow and see if they can tell me something. They certainly know How to write the ticket for one being out!
BTW, hows "shorty" coming along.
t.

t.

I asked this same question on aanother coe site and the answer I got was 1-3-1 is for Interstate Commerce. The 1-0-1 or none was for local trucks, Intrastate. The ICC had a grace period before the law became final in 1953. I don't think 1-0-1 ever made it to state laws.

Shorty's motor is being rebuilt. New door glass. New seat upholstery in black. I had hoped to get it with an equipment trailer before Christmas. I may drive it home with the trailer as a backup if the game plan changes. When I get Shorty to Indy, I'll do the body work and paint it the original colors of green/black. Then, the kick panels, floor mat and headliner in black. I HOPE to change the 2-speed axle gear ratios, add a PTO and tilt/dump mechanism and put on contractor (2'sides and tailgate).

I plan to attend the First All Dodge Truck Show in Pidgeon Forge, TN in Spring, 2002 and to take a trip from Indy to Cadiz, Ohio on old US Route 36.

Ken Foit
Indy

Ken,
Thanks for the light info.

Sounds like the trip to Indy is turning back in to the adventure you were hoping for.

If you get to Pigeon Forge and can't stop sliding south try sliding my way.
t.