Notice the exhaust pipes are behind the cab about as high as the step, and when the ramp is raised horizontally, the vertical structures on top of the ramp slip over the exhaust pipe, and raise the end of the exhaust to well over the cab height... very damn clever!
Dodge Brothers Standard Six
Notice the chainsaw cutting chain around the cowl, and the bandsaw blade horizontally along the beltline
I'm guessing the shifter was originally part of a farm machinery like a early plow or hay rake height adjuster
another gallery of the car here: http://hooniverse.com/blog/2009/12/03/whats-that-you-wanted-to-see-the-diamond-ts-passenger/#more-4244
A gallery of the truck here: http://hooniverse.com/blog/2009/12/03/diamond-t-informs-on-how-to-arrive-in-style/#more-4234