Original 360: 1971 Ford F250 Camper Special

Slide-On Campers offer the best of both worlds. When fitted to the right vehicle, they allow owners to venture deep into the wilderness, accessing locations that would typically be beyond the reach of vehicles like the Winnebago. However, they also allow their owners to spend extended periods at those locations with greater comfort than they would have by pitching a tent. Ford catered to people wishing to pursue those pastimes by releasing vehicles like this 1971 F250 Camper Special. Designed to cope with the additional load of a Camper, they proved popular amongst buyers seeking to delve into the great outdoors. This Camper Special is a genuine survivor that is rock-solid. It retains its original V8 under the hood and is ready to find a new home. Therefore, the seller has listed the F250 here on eBay in San Antonio, Texas. They set their price at $11,999 OBO.

This F250 formed part of Ford’s Fifth Generation F-Series that graced domestic showroom floors from late-1966 until 1972. Physically larger and with a heavier frame than its predecessor, the Fifth Generation proved robust, which is one reason these vehicles have survived and are keenly sought in the classic market. The first owner ordered this F250 as a Camper Special, a package that added improved cooling and a larger alternator to the mix. They chose a color combination of Seafoam Green over Boxwood Green, which is quite subtle. The images make it clear that the F250 isn’t a trailer queen and has worked to earn its keep. The paint has a few scratches and imperfections, while the panels have minor bumps and bruises. However, the dry Texan climate has kept rust at bay, meaning that a cosmetic refresh wouldn’t include steel replacement. The front bumper is slightly bent, although the remaining trim and the glass look quite good.

The range of engines available to 1972 F250 buyers was quite broad, but this Ford’s first owner selected the 360ci V8. A three-speed automatic transmission tackles the shifting, and with power steering and power brakes, maneuvering this big beast would be pretty easy. The 360 is a pretty handy device, generating 215hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque. The secret to its success is the low-end torque delivery, which makes hauling a Camper child’s play. The seller recently installed a new fuel tank, but the Pickup is otherwise original. It runs and drives extremely well, with no identified mechanical issues or shortcomings.

The signs of aging continue inside this Pickup. The interior shows signs of deterioration, but its shortcomings aren’t evidence of neglect or abuse. The Texan sun has cracked the dashpad and wheel, and the state of the upholstery beneath the seat’s slipcover is unclear. The paint looks tired, and someone installed a JVC radio/cassette player where the factory radio should be. However, the F250 retains many of its original items, the interior is serviceable, and the parts required to whip the interior into shape are readily available and affordable.

If I were to choose a single word to describe this 1971 Ford F250 Camper Special, it would be “honest.” The listing images reveal no major problems, confirming that it hasn’t fallen victim to rust or other issues that could spoil the ownership experience. The new owner could treat it to a cosmetic refresh that would be both relatively easy and rewarding. This F250 has generated significant interest since hitting the market, and I suspect it will find a new home quickly. Are you tempted to beat the opposition to the punch by hitting the BIN button, or would you take your chances by making an offer?