1978 Dodge Lil Red Express

1978 Dodge - Lil Red Express

About the 1978 Dodge Lil Red Express

Design and concept of the Lil Red Express has been credited to the legendary power-train engineer Tom Hoover, along with Dick Maxwell and Dave Koffel, who combined their efforts to produce this extremely limited edition truck, of which approximately 650 quality examples are believed to have survived from the original 1978 production run of 2,188.

When Dodge released the Lil Red Express Truck in 1978, it was one of the most unique Dodge trucks that had ever been produced. The Lil Red Express was not only great looking, but these trucks were also great performers. In 1978 The Dodge Lil' Red Express was the fastest American made vehicle from 0 to 100 MPH as tested by Car and Driver magazine.

Because of a loophole in the emissions regulations the 1978 Dodge Lil Red Express Truck's did not have catalytic converters. What the Lil Red Express did have was a special High Performance 360 C.I. 4-barrel small block engine code (EH1), which was a modified version of the 360 police engine (E58) producing 225 net horsepower @ 3800 RPM. The package also included Hemi style mufflers with a crossover pipe breathing through 2 chrome stacks located behind the cab, a special 727 transmission and 3.55:1 rear gearing.

About this Dodge Lil Red Express

This truck was purchased in 2014 from a gentleman that professionally restores classic trucks. It was purchased for the sole purpose to be used as a promotional item for my business. It was featured at special events, on Christmas cards, company calendars, etc. and it has been in a few local parades. It has always been kept covered in our climate-controlled warehouse when not in use. The company is no longer using this vehicle for promotions, so it is being sold at this time.

This truck went through a quality ground-up, frame-off restoration, including a complete rebuilding of the motor and transmission, which was completed in 2014 just before our purchase of it. I feel the photographs and video below properly represent its current condition. Everything works as it should with the exception of the “known issues” listed below.

The vehicle is equipped with a V8 360 C.I. motor, a 727 transmission, air conditioning, power steering, and front disc brakes. The current mileage is the actual mileage, and the truck has a (AM) actual mileage New Mexico title in my name. The title is clean and clear.

The motor and transmission have just over five hundred miles on them, which represents the company’s use of it from purchase through today. It was purchased after the restoration with 27,571 miles on the odometer, and the current mileage is 28,100.

Overall, the condition of this vehicle in my opinion is well above average, although opinions can and do vary. For this reason we would encourage potential buyers to come inspect the vehicle themselves or have a representative do so on their behalf. Test drives and inspections are available by appointment for serious buyers.

Present Values and Pricing

Our insurance company does an annual value estimation for this vehicle, as it is covered by an “Agreed Value” policy. Current prices for these trucks (1978 edition) as of February 2017, ranging from good to excellent condition vary from $18,500 to $32,700. The higher number ($32,700) represent an original vehicle in excellent condition, with less than 25,000 miles that has not been restored or modified in any way, and still has its original components - including factory paint.

The recent “Agreed Value” for this vehicle in its current condition as a restored vehicle is $24,000. That is not a professional appraisal, but what the insurance company feels is a fair market value to compensate me for the loss of the vehicle if needed. The vehicle is being offered for sale based on that evaluation. All serious offers will be considered.

I feel I have described this vehicle to the best of my ability. Please feel free to message me with any questions. I am willing to get on the phone with any serious potential buyers, but will not list my phone number in this posting as it leads to telemarking nightmares.

Known Issues

1. The speedometer is original to this vehicle and has a slight bounce from the zero to ten mile per hour range and then levels off. The speedometer is also off 10 miles per hour to the fast side at cruising and highway speeds.

2. The horn is not currently functioning properly.

3. We had the vehicle detailed prior to an event last year and there is a small spot near the passenger side mirror where the paint was buffed a little too hard. It is not visible in photographs and can only be seen in person when standing right up on it. This is pointed out in the video below.

4. Not an issue, but the gas cap is not original to the vehicle. This is pointed out in the video below.

Recent Services

Prior to posting the truck for sale it was taken to my mechanic for a pre-sale inspection and service. All fluids have been changed and the vehicle is ready for immediate use. This vehicle is very reliable and could be a daily driver if the next owner desires.

Payment

A $500 deposit is acceptable to initiate a purchase. Unless otherwise agreed upon, the full balance is to be paid within 7 days of deposit. PayPal is only accepted for the deposit. All payments must fully clear before the vehicle is shipped or released.

Shipping

Shipping arrangements and costs are the responsibility of the buyer. I am happy to assist with your shipping on my end and this location is able to handle all size transport vehicles.

Warranty

This vehicle is being sold as-is, with no warranty expressed or implied.