One of these days, I’m going to have to buy one of these old trucks! This Mercury version of the Ford F-250 has an incredible look to it, with the kind of look that only nature can create. It’s going to need work but sure would be a sweet truck to have. The original flathead V8 is present but isn’t currently running. It could be fun to get it going again, redo the interior and drive this thing otherwise as is! Take a closer look at it here on eBay in Sweet Grass, Montana with a current bid of $2,158 and let me know what you would do with this truck.
While there are some rust spots that will need to be dealt with, I’m actually not that concerned about fixing it. It looks like the cab is solid in the most difficult areas to fix. The floor has some surface rust but looks great. There’s some bubbling in the cab corners, but if you treat it right away with a good rust inhibitor, you shouldn’t have any problems stopping the decay. I’m actually more concerned about getting the engine running. It’s the same 239 CID flathead V8 that’s found in it’s Ford F-250 sibling and is good for 100 horsepower. If it isn’t seized up, it should be fairly simple to get running, but it most likely is due for a rebuild. A later Y-block V8 would give you more performance and would be a great option if you decide to go for an engine swap, rather than a rebuild.
The interior is going to need the usual work. Replacement seat upholstery is readily available. I’m actually thinking an interior like the one in the Ford F3 from a few days ago would look great in this one. Given how basic these trucks are, you aren’t going to have a lot of expense here. So, why not spend a little extra and have it look really awesome? Whether you go with a fancy leather interior or not, this is a great view!
Yes, there’s work to be done here, but this truck looks like a great starting point. It has the right look if you are into patina, but it’s also solid and straight enough that you could fully restore it if that’s more your interest. Whatever your style, this truck would be a fun one to take on. You could get the flathead running or install a modern powerplant. You can keep the interior basic or upgrade it with modern style. Honestly, there are endless options for a truck like this! I’d love to hear what you’d do with it, so, let me know how you’d build this truck in the comments!
Lube that flatmotor up, file the points,clean the plugs and carb-bet she fires right up. Love this truck. Another beauty from Sweet Grass!! Good Luck to the new owner!!
Cheers
GPC
Good trucks, these were. Still are. Not as many of these as the ones before. Most of the farmers were running larger operations by the early 50s and started buying 3-tons. This will have the 255 engine unless someone changed it. Actually by this stage in the game you could get the 255 in the Fords as well.
Can`t argue with the price and why would you.
And another one from Sweet Grass…..can’t be too many more to swoop up, are there, @geomechs?
Actually, the guys that sell those trucks pick them up all over the western Canadian region. They funnel them in through Sweetgrass because that is a major port between the US and Canada. I-15 starts at Sweetgrass and runs straight through to LA. Interesting enough, I know Sweetgrass and the area but I’m at a loss as to where the boys are stashing them when they clear customs. Sure isn’t in town.