1926 Rehberger Tow Truck

This 1926 Rehberger is in mint running condition and is series number 148.  The Rehberger was made from 1923-1938 in Newark, NJ by Arthur Rehberger and Sons.  It was an assembled product produced in small numbers for sale mainly in the Newark area.  Under 100 trucks were produced between 1923 and 1930, as Rehberger's bus business took on a major importance in 1927.  During W.W.II the firm produced heavy-duty trailers, many for the US Navy and shipbuilders.  Plans to reenter the truck field after the war never materialized.  this particular tow truck was originally owned by Valley Transportation Co., a Bus and Trolley business located in Lemoyne, PA.

"Rescued" from a field in York Haven, PA in 1973 the Rehberger was completely restored by Richard "Doc" Daugherty with the help of many friends and family members.  This wonderful vehicle was finished, in a furious attempt to make it to the 1989 AACA Hershey, PA meet.  It has been reported that this is the only known restored vehicle of its kind in the United States.

Truck Components:

Standard Equipment:

Enclosed "C" cab with ventilating windshield, front fenders, running boards, governor, Dot lubrication system, oil side and tail lights.

Special Equipment:

Tool kit with mint condition antique tools and lock, jack, antique "Texaco" oil cans on both running boards.

Manley Crane:

Manley Manufacturing Co. started about 1920 in York PA.  In a 1925 ad, Manley proclaimed that "The auto wrecking crane was originated by Robert E. Manley in 1917" and that "the Manley Crane was the first automobile wrecking crane to be manufactured as offered to dealers and garage men of the country".

Buda engine, Shuler front axles, Timkin rear axles, Manley crane, Fuller transmission with a two plate clutch much like the heavy trucks of today.

This tractor went to a heavy lift/rigging contractor in Maine.