Before WWII, Ford placed its truck bodies on car chassis, but the war taught all manufacturers a thing or two. The challenges of rugged territory, long-distance deployment, and enemy fire encouraged the development of more robust equipment. So when Ford sorted itself out post-war, it introduced the “Bonus Built” F-series, situated on a dedicated truck chassis. With a booming economy at hand, it wasn’t long before the company refreshed its lineup in response to keen competition and strong demand. The new trucks had “driverized” cabs, a shortened turning radius, and an overhead valve V8. Today’s stake-side F-600 hails from this second generation, and it’s available here on craigslist for $11,000. Drive it home from Overgaard, Arizona. Thanks to Zappenduster for finding this great old beast for us!
The arrival in 1954 of Ford’s Y-block OHV V8, replacing the old flathead, was scintillating news. However, this example wasn’t invited to the party: its 223 cu. in. “Cost Clipper” six was an update from the old 215, and output rose from 101 hp to 120, but the lowly six relegated this F-600 to base model status. Likewise, the four-speed manual was standard, while fancier trucks were optioned with a five-speed. If a guy really wanted to spring for top-shelf specs, a two-speed axle was available. Here, the radiator was rebuilt, and the tires are newly installed on split-ring wheels. The 6-volt system is still in place.
Ford spent a lot of money from the post-war period to the late 1950s updating its cabs. The Bonus Built “Million Dollar Cab” kicked off the trend. Second-gen trucks received even more upgrades, with wider interior dimensions, better seat padding, generous door openings, and a wrap-around windshield that not only looked great, but also afforded an excellent view. Previously owned by the US Army, this F-600 shows only 33k on the odometer. The seat has been reupholstered.
The stake sides are said to be original and in good condition, as is the wood bed. (Dry storage in Arizona will do that!) These trucks came in three wheelbase lengths – 130″, 154″, and 172″, and the GVWR ranged from 14,000 lbs to 16,000 lbs. When it comes to valuing these trucks, prices are all over the map. This guy wants $7500 for a ’54 in worse condition than the truck we are featuring; and here’s a fine ’55 stake-side with a six-cylinder (the description is wrong) for $17,500. What do you think of this former Army truck? Would you use it as-is, or make updates?
I know some may think I’m full of borscht, but I had a very similar truck, only mine had a 2 speed rear and a hoist. I had a LOT of vehicles in my days. When I had my farmette in the 80s-90s, I saw the truck on a farm from the interstate. $100, and I DROVE IT HOME( 2 miles)
Slight nit-pik, the 6 was not “lowly”, in fact, I bet most trucks around this time had in-line 6s, and they did an adequate job. The farmer was slow to adapt to the new fangled V8s, as the 6 always got them home. Never been, but from what I figure, the military was in no hurry. One thing for sure, couldn’t kill them, even with the foot to the floor all the live long day. I’m sure some GI that drove this will tell you that. The star in the grill indicates a 6, V8 would have a “V”. I guess a heater isn’t necessary in Az. and no doubt it’s an army vehicle. No combat, strictly stateside supply, and a great find, for sure.