Ford has dominated the U.S. truck market for decades and most of that can be attributed to the F-Series that began in 1948. The F-Series offered a wide range of vehicles from light-duty pickups to heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The second generation ran from 1953-56 and was dubbed the “Triple Economy” models. This edition from ‘56 was bought for a rebuild project, but the seller is moving and the F-100 must move on. Located in Flower Mound, Texas, bidding for the truck has reached $3,750 here on eBay. Hats off to Larry D for another great find!
Begin in 1953, Ford changed the F-Series model naming convention from a single number to three numbers which are still in place today. Thus, the F-1 became the F-100, and several new options were now available, such as power brakes and an automatic transmission. The trucks would become so popular that they ended up being built in 11 facilities across the U.S. The 1956 F-100 was a one-year-only body style. It’s identified from the 1953-55 predecessors by vertical windshield pillars and a wrap-around windshield instead of sloped pillars and an angled windshield. A larger wraparound back window was available as an option, but the seller’s truck didn’t come that way.
As the story goes, the seller acquired this farm truck out of New Mexico several years ago with plans for some level of restoration. With the seller relocating, his vision for the project will need to pass on to someone else to execute. The truck looks as though it was painted red when it was new and then light blue later on exterior facing surfaces, although I wouldn’t rule out this being faded grey primer instead. Besides surface rust, corrosion doesn’t seem to be an issue except for maybe the floorboards.
We’re told the motor doesn’t turn over and both the seller and the VIN say this truck has a 223 cubic inch I-6. But the photo shows a V8 engine there instead, possibly the 272 Y-block. Unless originality is an issue, that could prove to be a plus for this pickup. The price tag for vintage trucks has been on the rise and Hagerty estimates a top-flight ’56 F-100 could be a $50,000 vehicle. But just running with a fresh coat of primer (and a windshield) would be $13-14,000 (Fair Condition).
I’ve always liked these trucks. One of my brothers owned one in the 50’s and early 60’s. His was a 55 model with 272 and three on tree. His was white Ext. with red int. raised in the rear with drop axle up front it sat on a California rake. The wheels were reversed and painted gold. He had Atlas faux slicks on back and narrorer atlas tires on the front. It was leather tuck n roll seats in Red n White. That is similar to the way I would do this truck to give it that 50’s hot rod truck vibe.
God bless America
That would have been a 239 if original, trucks didn’t get a 272 till 56.
They used to call this body style a “Henry Hauler”.
Super buy! I have an original ‘56 F100 standard cab just like this one, except mine came from the factory with the 272 V8. If it was 1000 miles closer I’d be buyin’ it.
Don’t know where you are but I know of one in north california which would be a great project. Body is in great shape. No rust. V-8 and automatic trans. Reply if interested.
Either former school system or DOT truck. Popular because it was the first 12 volt Ford truck in the 1950’s .
Keep in mind the seller states in the ebay ad, “ You will need a wench to load the vehicle.” She will need to be very muscular.