No Reserve: 1985 Ford F250 XL 4×4

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Classic Pickups almost invariably command attention when they hit the market, particularly if they are clean survivors that a seller lists with No Reserve. Those words perfectly describe this 1985 Ford F250 XL 4×4. It is ready for towing duties or off-road adventures, and the bidding history suggests a few people want to park it in their garage. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Billy bats for spotting this versatile survivor.

The F-Series has been an integral part of Ford’s product range since the end of World War II. The Seventh Generation hit the market in 1979 for the 1980 model year. The final examples left the factory in 1986, further cementing the badge’s place in the American automotive landscape. Our feature F250 emerged in 1985 and is an original survivor. It isn’t perfect, but its condition is comfortably acceptable for a Pickup that has worked to justify its existence. The two-tone Bright Canyon Red and Silver paint is in generally good condition, with no severe flaws or issues demanding immediate attention. The seller believes that a previous owner refreshed the Silver, but feels it deserves a repeat performance to lift the overall presentation. The bed hasn’t been as lucky, sporting a significant collection of scratches and scrapes. It would benefit from a refresh, and adding a liner once this occurs would protect it from future damage. The panels are straight, and although the underside of this Pickup is dirty, there is no evidence of developing penetrating rust. The rear step bumper and side steps are practical features, particularly for those of us with short legs who might struggle to climb aboard this beauty. The trim is in good order, and there are no visible glass issues.

Ford designed the F-Series as a workhorse, and early models were undeniably utilitarian. The badge evolved subsequently, becoming a practical and comfortable alternative for those seeking versatility. That is reflected by this F250’s interior, which features air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, cloth seatcovers, splashes of woodgrain, and an aftermarket Sony radio/cassette player. The seller indicates the A/C doesn’t blow cold, but the remaining features work as they should. The presentation suggests the vehicle has been treated respectfully. The cloth is free from wear and stains, with the same true of the vinyl mat. The dash and pad are excellent, and the woodgrain is in good order. Address the A/C shortcoming and any journey should be pleasant aboard this F250.

The original owner chose to order this F250 with the optional 351 “HO” V8, which sends its 210hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. They also selected power-assisted steering and brakes to ensure that maneuvering this classic in tight locations is effortless. The low-end torque delivery is not only ideal for off-road adventures but should allow this classic to effectively use its hitch to tow heavy loads. The good news just keeps coming with this 4×4, with the seller confirming that it is in excellent mechanical health. There are still opportunities to delve into the wilderness before the cold weather arrives, and the winning bidder could do so as soon as they hand their cash to the seller.

With twenty-one bids submitted since the seller listed this 1985 Ford F250 XL here on eBay in Tacoma, Washington, it is obvious that people can see the benefits of becoming the next owner of this classic Pickup. The action has pushed the price to $8,100, and with No Reserve in play, it is days away from finding the new home. The winning bidder could address its few faults to ensure it continues to offer many years of service. Are you tempted to join the bidding war, or will you join me as an interested observer?

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Comments

  1. Howard A Howard A.Member

    In the 80s when I had my farmette in the country, a neighbor, who had a rather large dairy operation, one of his 1st farm pickups was a truck just like this, only a stick. To say that truck did it all would be an understatement. From pulling hay wagons, to equipment, animals, you name it, that truck did it, including Sat. night at the Bijou. One day, wifey was coming down the road, turned left into the farm, and some punk going about 100 plowed into her just behind the cab, almost took the box off, if hit in the door, would have killed her. Time for a new pickup, but in typical resourceful farmer ways, pulled the box and frame back out some, and STILL used it as a farm truck. Fords best trucks, right here.

    Like 8
    • Stan StanMember

      Good story Howard. My buddy had similar rig, but w that Navistar diesel and a 4spd. Plowed snow, hauled heavy landscaping trailers. Tough as heck. Punched above the 3/4 ton rating they seem.

      Like 2
  2. Big C

    The big, bad, beautiful Bull Nose! And, with the 351. If I had the need for 2 trucks? This one would be high on that list.

    Like 3
  3. Tom

    Just curious but there seems to be a lot of vehicles on BF from Tacoma, Washington. I happened to own a 1985 just like this one. Foolishly I sold it
    about 10 years ago as I got older. Sure wish I still had it. BTW I just got home from picking up the 1988 Rolls Royce I bought after I found it on BF. Other than getting only about 12 mpg it is a dream to drive and just set in.This pickup is better than the $100,000 Fords of today.

    Like 4
  4. Nelson C

    If it runs as good as it looks it should be all the truck you may ever need.

    Like 0
    • Tom

      Yes. I still have my 1972 F-150 Camper Special and another 2003 F-150 4 wheel drive. The only two I will ever need in the next 20 years then the kids can have them to fight over. Both still under 100 k miles on them.

      Like 1

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