Dry-climate classics will typically attract plenty of attention when they hit the market, especially when the vehicle is a solid Pickup. However, there are exceptions to every rule, as demonstrated by this 1971 Ford F-250 Ranger Highboy. It has no immediate needs, but performing a cosmetic restoration would be straightforward and satisfying. That makes it surprising that it has received no bids since the seller listed the Highboy here on eBay in Ojai, California. They set the auction to open at $15,000, and there is still time for interested individuals to make a play for this classic.

Ford’s Fifth Generation F-Series range landed in showrooms for the 1967 model year, with the last vehicles rolling out the door in 1972. Ford based the new series on the same platform as its predecessor but brought more modern styling and a few other upgrades to the table to entice potential buyers. This F-250 appeared in 1971, with the seller confirming that it received a repaint in its original Wimbledon White approximately ten years ago. It still presents acceptably for a driver-grade classic, although some visible deterioration and small areas of developing rust will probably motivate the new owner to perform a cosmetic refresh. The rust isn’t extensive, but addressing it fairly quickly would prevent a small task from developing into a large one. The panels are pretty straight for a vehicle of this type and age, while the cap and hitch receiver are practical additions. The trim looks acceptable for a survivor, and there are no glass issues.

Ford offered buyers six engines to power their 1972 F-250, with this Pickup’s original owner selecting the 360ci V8. They backed this with a four-speed T-19 manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The V8 produced 215hp and 327 ft/lbs of torque when shiny and new, allowing the Highboy to excel in all circumstances. The seller confirms that this F-250 is numbers-matching and is in sound mechanical health. They recently installed an upgraded Edelbrock intake and matching carburetor, which should unlock some welcome performance gains. The Ford also received a new dual exhaust, brakes, and a master cylinder. This gem features its original steel wheels, but the seller includes a set of 16″ wheels with All-Terrain tires and hubcaps. They claim it has a genuine 79,200 miles on its odometer but don’t mention verifying evidence. However, the Pickup runs and drives exceptionally well and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

This F-250’s mechanical components weren’t the only items to receive recent attention, with the interior featuring a new seatcover, dash pad, and headliner. The overall impression is positive, and its only genuine shortcomings are the deterioration of some painted surfaces and cloudy gauge lenses. However, this is a case where addressing the issues will consume more time than money. Tackling the paint would entail dismantling the interior to achieve a high-end result. That would also allow an opportunity to install a new lens that would cost under $30. The result would be worthwhile, especially if the exterior refresh is undertaken simultaneously. The original owner ordered this Highboy with air conditioning, although the buyer must install some removed components and perform a recharge before it blows cold again.

After decades of involvement in the classic scene, few things surprise me, but the lack of bidding action on this 1971 Ford F-250 Highboy falls into that category. Maybe potential buyers are playing their cards close to their chest as they contemplate submitting a bid during the auction’s dying moments. That is a valid strategy and could be a way of securing the vehicle at an affordable price. Would you do that or throw caution to the wind? More importantly, are you considering pursuing this F-250 further? I wish you luck if you do.