• Seller: Jim F eilbach (Contact)
• Location: Jackson, Wisconsin
• Mileage: 0 Shown
• Chassis #: 5213082
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 200.5cui Flathead Inline-4
• Transmission: 3-Speed Manual

Ford’s introduction of its low-cost 221-cubic-inch “Flathead” V8 in 1932 overshadowed the fact that an improved Model A four cylinder was still available through 1934. Once production got up and rolling and people began to trust the reliability of Henry’s new bent eight, however, the popularity of the trusty old four dwindled. But it didn’t die, and there are those hot rodders and Ford enthusiasts who will swear by a “banger.” This 1933 Model B pickup is being listed as a barn find from Colorado by its seller, who is based in Jackson, Wisconsin. It will need a restoration, or at least a rehabilitation, before it sees the road, but it’s solid and complete, and it’s for sale as a Barn Finds Exclusive with an asking price of $10,500.

Here’s the updated heart of this ’33 closed-cab pickup, the 200.5-cubic-inch four cylinder, which was called the Model B engine. Improvements over the Model A engine included a longer-duration camshaft, larger main bearings (2″ compared to 1 5/8″), pressure oiling to the main and camshaft bearings, and improved intake and exhaust porting. The result of these improvements was a noticeable ten horsepower gain to 50 at 2800 rpm, up from 40 at 2250 rpm. (Thanks to the Vintage Ford Forum for the specifications.)

The engine in this truck isn’t running, so at the very least the new owner will be getting an education in 1930s Ford technology. I can’t be the only one who would find that exciting, can I?

The interior is certainly in need of some work, but you could make it usable if you decide to get the pickup running and driving without restoring it. The wooden floor appears to be in the bed of the truck along with some extra parts from various cars (perhaps even a spare engine block?).

Time and the elements have been kind to the Ford, as those salt-free Colorado roadways of the pre-World War II era did their best to keep the truck solid. It doesn’t appear that there’s anything missing underneath or up top.

In the car lines, 1933 saw a big change in body design, and the new Fords looked as if they were far more expensive than they actually were. Frankly, they were beautiful. The pickups, however, carried on with largely the same styling as the ’32 models, with a couple important differences: the wheelbase was stretched from 106 to 112 inches for a little more aesthetic balance, and the grille shell was angled backward by five degrees at the top. Behind the radiator, changes were apparently made to the crankshaft pulley, timing cover, and water pump (to account for the new swept back grilles in the cars). Of course, a lot is possible with old Fords because Henry anecdotally liked to use up all the old stock he could. I can’t say I blame him.

Although you could buy a new four-cylinder pickup in the depths of the Depression for a mere $440, time and popularity have caught up with any ’30s Ford. This looks like a really solid project that you could restore or get running and driving to enjoy it as it sits. If you love these old pickups from a bygone day, make an offer now!