Ford had no idea that it was kicking off a line of trucks that would become best sellers worldwide for decades when it introduced the F-series in 1948. The F-series was situated on a purpose-built truck frame and offered the option of a V8 engine. For the first time, an automaker designed a truck’s cab with its occupants in mind. Ford was broadcasting to the marketplace that its new trucks were more capable than competing car-based haulers. Buyers could choose among several weight ratings ranging from the F1 half-ton with a 6.5′ bed, the bare-chassis F3 ready for a custom box, or the heavy-duty F8 – and everything in between. Here on craigslist is this sympathetically restored 1951 F1 pickup, priced at $18,000 and located in Vero Beach, Florida. The seller lists age and health as reasons for the sale. Thanks to Jack M for finding this fine example of an early F-series!

In the engine bay sits Ford’s 239 cu. in. flathead V8, original to the car but likely overhauled along with everything else. Research shows Ford’s truck engines through 1961 were painted red, while its car engines of the same era were green. No matter the color, output was 100 hp, with power brought to the rear wheels by a three-speed manual. By 1951, the gear lever had moved from the floor to the column. The bed was restyled, introducing a new tailgate, though its floor was still hardwood with steel strips between each board.

Ford spent $1 million toward developing its early F-series cab, earning it the nickname “million-dollar cab.” Its dimensions were significantly larger all the way around; accommodating three across on the bench seat was no problem. Outward visibility vastly improved, and in ’51, the rear window was enlarged as well. Like the condition of the rest of the truck, the example’s interior finishes show all the signs of a well-kept restoration. The color-keyed vintage heater adds a dash of charm. A nicely refinished four-spoke steering wheel frames a raised nacelle containing the speedometer and a multi-function gauge. As part of Ford’s “three-way ventilation system”,  vent windows in each door had replaced the crank-out windshields that saw their last days in the late 1930s. A defroster was optional.

In 1951, the Korean War started, putting nickel inventories at a premium. Nickel, used in chrome plating, was either left out of the process, used minimally, or manufacturers substituted painted parts for brightwork. Ford’s new bumper style for ’51 received paint until the war ended and shortages disappeared. The tall cab and strong fender lines make these trucks classics. Original examples of the “Bonus Built” first-generation F-series can sell north of $20k, but most tend to sell in the high teens. Resto-mods can sell for far more, depending on the build and its appeal. What do you think of this 1951 F1?