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, a remarkable fusion of heavy-duty engineering and hot rod design that represents one of the boldest custom creations in its collection. This extraordinary vehicle combines a 1946 Ford pickup cab with a custom-fabricated steel frame and features a massive 736 cubic-inch Detroit Diesel 8V92 two-stroke V8 engine equipped with both a turbocharger and scavenger blower, producing an estimated 430 horsepower and a colossal 1,186 lb-ft of torque.

The engineering significance of this build lies in its retention of heavy-duty commercial components including power steering, axles, and air brakes, giving this street rod the capability of a commercial rig while maintaining hot rod aesthetics. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels through an Allison four-speed automatic transmission and a Rockwell rear end with 4.64:1 gearing, riding on 24.5" alloy wheels with a custom suicide front end and semi-elliptical leaf springs rated for approximately 5,000 pounds.

Visually, the truck makes an immediate impact with its approximately 21-foot length and over 8-foot width, featuring a polished tonneau, white flourishes over the deep red exterior, split windshield, chrome headlight housings, and dual air horns. Additional distinctive elements 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 unmistakable presence.

Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's unique qualities, stating that its sound, size, and pure spectacle make it a head-turning machine that exemplifies the creativity and engineering passion celebrated in the automotive world. The museum, located at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com, now displays this exceptional vehicle alongside more than 200 collector vehicles and 3,000 rare toys and memorabilia items, making it a significant destination for automotive enthusiasts and preserving important examples of custom automotive craftsmanship for public appreciation and education.