International built its first car in 1907 and its first truck two years later. Over the years, International's triple-diamond logo became widely associated with tough, hard-working vehicles. In 1952, International could still claim that over half the vehicles it ever built were still in service.
What the rugged 1948 International KB-2 pickup truck may have lacked in postwar visual appeal, it made up for in durability. By 1940, International offered more than 50 different truck models, among them the new K-series pickup line, introduced at mid-year. Typical of the era, Ks sported heavy domed roofs and pointed hoods, but headlamps were integral with the fenders -- a rather modern idea for trucks.
After civilian production resumed in 1947, the K-series evolved into the KB, with only minor changes to the 1947-1949 International KB-2 pickup models, though the barrel-shaped grille now sprouted little "wings" at the bottom.
International stuck with this styling until 1950, which was not the most competitive course in a market where rivals were shedding their prewar designs. Still, the company sold more than 122,000 of the 1/2-ton International KB-1 pickups and 3/4-ton International KB-2 pickups between 1947 and 1949.
Power for the 1947-1949 International KB series pickups was provided by the "Green Diamond" six, a 214-cid flathead producing 82 bhp at 3400 rpm and 160 lbs/ft of torque at 1200 rpm. While the peak-torque rpm seems low, consider that the KB idled at only 350 rpm.
With typical undersquare bore/stroke dimensions and 6.3:1 compression, this was no high-performance engine. But it was durable and easy to work on, and that's what counted.
The 1948 International KB-2 pickup shown here sports the optional Knox box, which included a heavy-duty checker-plate grain bed. The cab was utilitarian, though it did offer an adjustable bench seat and surprisingly complete instrumentation. A glovebox matched the oblong instrument panel. Compared to other 1940s trucks, this symmetrical layout seemed almost sporty.
International KB-series pickups were available on both 113- and 125-inch wheelbases, with axle ratios ranging from a tall 3.72:1 to more appropriate 4.88:1 and 5.11:1 gearing. Solid axles front and rear were supported by semi-elliptic leaf springs and Lovejoy refillable shock absorbers.
Collectible Pluses of the 1947-1949 International KB-2 Pickup
Prewar look in a late-1940s pickup
Solid and reliable
Uncommon marque on the show circuit
Inexpensive
Collectible Minuses of the 1947-1949 International KB-2 Pickup
Dated compared to contemporary competition
Hard to find in decent shape
Replacement parts are scarce
Low investment potential
This 1949 International KB-2 pickup wears an International-built pickup box. Horizontal ribs give the sides increased rigidity.
