I am a big fan of the F Series pickups from the last century. I had a ’93 F350 Crew Cab, 4WD, with the 7.5-liter gas engine, and do I ever miss that truck except for the gas mileage! With the eight-foot bed, it measured 2 feet longer than an Excursion. This example of the 1970s F Series is a 1971 F250. 1971 brought new features and different trim levels compared to the 1970 models. New interior materials and dashboard layout marked the beginning of the passenger-friendly era for the stalwart workhorse pickup. This beautiful two-tone Sport Custom is available here on craigslist in Fremont, Nebraska, for $17,500. Thanks to Jack M for the tip!
I contacted the seller and asked for pics of the engine, and I was actually treated to some videos that, unfortunately, I cannot add to this post. From what I have seen, though, the engine runs smoothly and starts right up when cold. The 390 engine option for the F250 in 1971 was part of Ford’s FE series of engines. Boasting 255 horsepower and 400 ft.-lbs. of torque, it needed the NP435 four-speed manual transmission, which features the classic “Granny Gear” first gear. The seller said it was perfect for their kids to learn to drive a stick, since it was “just about unkillable in granny gear.”
The two-tone yellow and Wimbledon white make this truck stand out. The interior looks fresh, and in one of the videos the owner sent me, he discussed issues inside the cab. The gas gauge doesn’t work, and the ashtray holder is missing. The engine has an air conditioning compressor, but the lines to the cab have apparently been pinched off. Otherwise, it sounds like a solid truck when running. Videos of the underside show the frame as clean and rust-free. I encourage anyone seriously interested in this truck to contact the seller and request the videos, but please don’t bug them if you are not serious.
Hagerty Valuation shows a 1971 F250 Sport Custom Styleside Long Bed with the 390 2-barrel in #2 excellent condition, with a low of $33,333 and a high of $47,833. That’s up almost 10% over the last year and 7.5% over the last 3 years. This pickup from Nebraska is a beautiful example of an early ‘70s F-Series, just as manufacturers were making their work trucks more passenger-friendly inside. Sure, it’s not a Super Duty King Ranch edition, but for 1971 it was more comfortable than pickups of the ‘60s. The big question is how much longer it will be available. The seller says they have had a lot of interest, so if you want this beauty, you should act now!
the 67-72 F series was the all time best looking, and most desireable (IMO), of light duty trucks of the era. I bought a new 76 F250 XLT camper special with similar running gear, 2wd, NP 4 speed transmission, 390 FE, DANA locking differential. It was a great truck but having 3 sons that sequentially drove it like it was “their truck”, well you know the story. This one looks great, has it had a repaint? If not, well maintained and nicely detailed for a great sell presentation. I would love it.