It is a harsh reality that most classic Pickups spent their lives as workhorses. They justified their existence by carting loads that left their share of scars and bruises. Occasionally, an exception to that rule appears, which seems to be the case with this 1950 Ford F1. It is an original and unmolested survivor with one of the nicest bodies you will find with any Pickup of this vintage. It could respond positively to a faithful restoration, but retaining it untouched is an approach many would consider. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on Craigslist in Ormond Beach, Florida. The price for this slice of automotive history is $22,900, and I must say a huge thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting it.

I admit I was quite taken aback when I first saw this old Ford. Unrestored Pickups of this vintage generally sport a collection of dings, dents, and rust. This beauty has avoided those problems and has no apparent immediate needs. The panels are as straight as an arrow, suggesting its owners treated it respectfully. The bed is the most impressive area, which shows none of the damage you usually expect from heavy loads or items dropped carelessly. There is surface corrosion in that area, on the lower door edges, the hood, and the roof, but there is no penetrating rust. If the new owner chooses the preservation path, treating those areas to prevent deterioration would be a wise strategy. The lower cab corners are as solid as they were in 1950, as are the floors and frame. The Meadow Green paint is faded and worn through in spots, but there’s no evidence of restoration work. The front bumper features additional barwork for protection, but I believe this is bolted in place. That means removal should not be a problem. The remaining trim is good for its age, and there are no visible glass issues.

Ford offered 1950 F1 buyers two engines to power their purchase. Like most people, this Pickup’s original owner selected the 239ci flathead V8, producing 100hp and 176 ft/lbs of torque. The power feeds to the back wheels via a three-speed manual transmission, allowing this survivor to carry its ½-ton payload effortlessly. The seller says this F1’s drivetrain is original and is in excellent health. They wisely upgraded the electrical system to twelve volts but left the remaining mechanical components untouched. They recently fully serviced the vehicle, fitting new shocks in the process. The flathead, to quote the seller, “runs like a champ.” It drives well, and although the tires have plenty of tread, the seller says the new owner may decide to replace them due to their age. Otherwise, it appears to need nothing.

The interior reveals this F1 rolled off the line in the first half of 1950. Later examples featured a column shifter for the three-speed manual, but the floor shifter in this Pickup confirms it as an earlier example. Apart from aftermarket turning signals, the only addition I can spot is the carpet. That doesn’t thrill me, and I would probably swap it for a more appropriate rubber mat if I found this classic in my workshop. The seat upholstery has a repair on the driver’s side, but the general lack of wear is surprising in a vehicle of this type and age. The dash is complete, with its bright trim pieces sparkling nicely. The wheel and horn button are cracked, but I believe both are restorable. There is no radio, but the heater should make life more bearable on cold days. The new owner may choose to restore this interior to contrast the exterior, but leaving it untouched would be a valid approach.

There was a time when I used to give older Pickups like this 1950 Ford F1 little more than a passing glance, but with maturity has come wisdom. I recognize the importance of these classics and why they appeal to enthusiasts. Some may see this beauty as a prime candidate for a custom or ratrod build, while others would opt for a faithful restoration. Finding a seventy-two-year-old Pickup that is as straight, solid, and unmolested as this is a rare treat, and it is why I believe the new owner will probably opt for preservation. It would undoubtedly draw attention fully restored, but I feel it would receive more positive comments and respect if left untouched. Do you agree, or does your vision differ from mine?