The Ranchero Squire was the upscale version of Ford’s “Ute” (utility coupe). It came with faux woodgrain paneling, a concept that was also applied to the full-size LTD wagon in 1970. Based on the Torino, the Ranchero was redesigned for 1970 and 1971, and this one has a powerhouse 429 cubic-inch V8 from the factory, making the Squire one of fewer than 300 so equipped that year. Located in Topeka, Kansas, this running project looks rough and should be restored. It’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $14,000.
Ford launched the Ranchero in 1957 based on a full-size 2-door wagon. They changed directions in 1960-65 and used the compact Falcon as the starting point. Then in 1966, it moved to a mid-size Fairlane platform and stayed there through 1979. During this time, it competed with the Chevrolet El Camino, which ran from 1959-60 and again from 1964-87. In 1970, Ford produced fewer than 4,000 Ranchero Squires, and the seller’s edition comes with a Marti Report for buyers to verify authenticity.
The seller is few on words about this Ford and says that he doesn’t have time to do with it as he wants. We’re told there is some rust (but not much), and the Ivy Green Metallic paint and fake paneling are pretty well shot. The right front fender has been replaced either due to corrosion or an accident. The truck has been on the market for nearly two months, so prospective buyers may not be impressed by the lack of details.
There are also no interior photos except of the odometer. We’re told it drives, but how well? Is the big-block 429 V8 original to the truck? He must have bought it out of California, as vintage Cali license plates are still affixed to the pickup. If you’re looking for a truck project with a beefy powerplant, how about this Ranchero? Out thanks to “Zappendustrer” for yet another tip.
Extended length on market is usually a red flag as you point out Dixon.
Price is pretty high. The 429 is a plus and helps make the car a great cruiser with the 3.0 geared rear end. Not sure if the wood grain means much for the value, but the hidden headlights are pretty desirable. As mentioned above, 2 months on the market isn’t a great sign,
Steve R
I’m not a fan of these “trucks,” El Camino and Ranchero alike.
yellow fender read crashed at one time LOL
This is a clear example of it ‘needs to have eyes put on it’. But that statement also entails, living close by. It has a few desirable options, big block and hide a way headlights. With the lack of description and pics, it might be for sale for awhile.
“Cali”???
this rare with a b/b motor. would look killer redone but you need to buy it right. you don’t see many like this especially with hideaways.
This truck needs a lot of TLC for that price, which is probably why it has been on the market so long. Personally that 429 is too much engine for as light as this truck is. Especially light on the rear end. BUT if it is factory that raises the value. That yellow fender on the right front says it has been crunched at some point, you would have to look over that suspension close..
Drive as is and call it a “Ratchero”…not a Ford fan. I really like my ’68 El Camino with a 350/350.
Decent looking rig. Peak era Ranchero. Lose those Dakota hubcaps and get some brushed “Ford Motor Company” dog dishes STAT. Petty gripe, but would really amp up its street cred. FWIW don’t throw ‘em away though, think they’re early ‘87 only. Like that someone along the line at least found a wood grain replacement fender with all the trim.
good potential
With the heavily damaged labor force ,drugs, alcohol, gambling and gaming, i cannot look at a project with the same view and am forced into buying a car that is as close to stock as possible with no paint work performed as it will probably hide shotty work !
Good luck to the buyer if anyone chooses to tackle this one