In 1961, Ford updated its popular F-Series pickup trucks, marking the truck’s fourth generation, which lasted until 1966. After the first two years, Ford ended the integrated unibody style in 1963, when the cab and bed were one continuous piece, because consumers preferred traditional separate beds like this one. According to Hagerty market data, a 1963 F-100 in good condition (#3) goes for up to $21K, and in excellent condition (#2) starts at $25K. This one on Craigslist in Eagle, Idaho sits in between at $22.5K and has been in one family its whole life. Thanks to Curvette for sending this tip in!
The stepside (also known as Flareside) bed, which features a classic narrow cargo bed with outside rear fenders and side-mounted steps (thus the name), might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I like them as they are not as common as the traditional Styleside pickup bed, and you can add stacks if you want it to look more truck-like, such as a Dodge Li’l Red Express. This one also has a newer premium spray-in bedliner if you want to use it for hauling.
It appears to have several upgrades for comfort and usability. The automatic transmission and engine, upgraded to 352 cubic inches from the stock 292, have both been rebuilt. It also has a Custom Vintage air conditioning system, power brakes, and power steering, so you have all the comforts of a modern ride. The only changes I would make are to the front seat upholstery, since the color doesn’t match the rest of the truck, and I would add either a vintage-style radio or a touchscreen panel with GPS for more modern convenience.
The mileage stated in the ad is 5,000, but there is no explanation if that is from when the engine was rebuilt or if it’s rolled over one or more times. In my opinion, I would rather drive around in this truck than a new Raptor that costs multiples of the price for this ride. The mint green paint reminds me of mint chocolate chip ice cream, and I can just picture driving this to the local ice cream shop for a cone. What about you? Would you make any other changes to this truck, or would you just buy it and go?
It’s my understanding that Ford did not have a styleside bed ready for 1963, so instead they used the styleside beds of the 1957 model. It does look kinda funky.