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Original 400: 1977 Ford F-250 Ranger XLT Supercab

It is fair to assume that when they released their immediate post-war models, American vehicle manufacturers could not have imagined how their Pickups would eventually dominate the passenger car market. They have met ready acceptance across many countries, consigning the once dominant sedans to also-ran status. Even the rise of zero-emission vehicles may not dampen enthusiasm, as the impact of the Tesla Cybertruck has demonstrated. This 1977 Ford F-250 Ranger XLT isn’t in that league, but it is a solid survivor with its original 400ci V8 under the hood. It is a turnkey proposition for its new owner, with the seller listing the F-250 here on eBay in Nampa, Idaho. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to $10,100, meaning a new home is in this classic’s near future.

Ford’s F-Series range made a significant impact when first released, and the Sixth Generation variants that graced showroom floors from late 1972 until 1979 continued that trend. These vehicles laid the foundations that eventually saw the F-150 hold the crown as America’s new car market leader. This F-250 rolled off the line in 1977, resplendent in a combination of Tangerine and Dark Brown. When it comes to paint combinations, this is about as “1970s” as they come. That doesn’t make it ugly, because I quite like it. This Pickup is an unrestored survivor, confirmed by a close inspection that reveals minor paint chips and imperfections. However, the presentation is still impressive, especially for a vehicle many might view as a workhorse. The panels are straight, and the extensive image gallery confirms there is no penetrating rust. The tinted glass and trim are spotless, with the Ford retaining its original steel wheels and hubcaps.

The seller supplies no clear engine photos but confirms the Ranger features its numbers-matching 400ci V8. This motor joined the F-Series range in 1977, delivering 174hp and 298 ft/lbs of torque. It was the most powerful engine available to those ordering a 4×4, with the more potent 460ci powerplant limited to two-wheel drive applications. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed automatic transmission, with the dual-range NP205 transfer case providing excellent off-road capabilities. The seller doesn’t offer much information about the Pickup’s mechanical health, but we can learn a few things from the image gallery. There are no signs of long-term fluid leaks. This vehicle has been cleaned but not detailed within an inch of its life. Therefore, any problems would be abundantly clear. They don’t mention any issues, suggesting the F-250 is in sound mechanical health.

Finding a Pickup from this era with an unmolested interior is refreshing. It is common to find aftermarket additions, but this Ford has avoided that fate. The dash retains its original AM radio, and the first owner ordered it with air conditioning. The seller indicates a few components have gone AWOL, so a shopping spree may be on the cards if the winning bidder wants the system to blow cold. The Pickup is a Supercab, meaning there is a bench back seat. Space is pretty limited, making that potentially a “kids-only” zone. The front seat has minor wear on the driver’s side, but the carpet, dash, and door trims are excellent.

I admit that I once didn’t understand the appeal of Pickups, but my view was borne out of ignorance. Long-term experience has proven to me that vehicles like this 1977 Ford F-250 Range Supercab offer incredible versatility. This one looks like a gem and could be ideal as a shop truck or for someone seeking weekend adventures. Attaching a hitch would allow it to competently haul heavy loads, making it easy to understand why it has attracted fourteen bids. The reserve is met, so the highest bidder will take this classic home. Are you tempted to slip behind the wheel and drive off into the sunset? I won’t blame you if you do.

Comments

  1. SirRaoulDuke

    Mark me down as also liking the colors, I find the combo classy.

    Like 10
    • John M. Stecz

      This guy sells a lot of beautiful trucks!

      Like 0
  2. Kevin

    Very nice truck. The grill isn’t from a 1977. It’s from a 1973 to 1975 model.

    Like 1
  3. Todd Zuercher

    I’m curious what the real story is with this truck. It has a ’73-’75 grille and the F-250 badging is on the fenders like it was for ’73-’76 as well.

    The biggest question mark is how it left the factory – since Ford didn’t offer the SuperCabs with 4WD until 1978.

    Like 8
    • Bob_in_TN Bob_in_TN Member

      Good info Todd. We’ve seen many trucks from this seller, and it is not the first time we have had questions about the trim on the truck (or, even the basic architecture or powertrain) which doesn’t match the stated model year. I wish he would provide a Marti Report. This one in general fits the seller’s theme: new paint, new interior (which may not be done per stock), lift kit with modern tires and (sometimes) wheels. Maybe this one is even more of a mix and match??

      Like 5
      • Todd Zuercher

        Yeah, he does have some “interesting” offerings. I recall recently that he had two trucks listed with the same VIN in the ad for each. He doesn’t list the VIN for this one – which I’d say is another red flag. Definitely a mix and match in my book. Not necessarily a bad thing, but go in with eyes wide open so you know what you’re getting and how you’ll license it.

        Like 2
  4. Mr Big Shot

    It is an early 77 as it has the fat hubs on the dana 44 front axle. They changed several things midyear in 77 and we r to a reverse cut dana 44 and then a 2 driveshaft set up as opposed to the 3 shaft setup of the earlier 77 models. I think they may have changed the badging as well from theower fender to the top of the cowl at this point. It not sure about that

    Like 0
    • Todd Zuercher

      Badging changed at the beginning of the ’77 model year.

      Like 0
  5. Junkyard Jake

    It’s my opinion this truck left the factory as a two wheel drive, then they found a 77 or newer chassis to put it on. It is not a 1977 model truck, I also would like to see the Marti report on this one 😁

    Like 1
  6. Car Nut Tacoma

    Lovely looking truck. I love the condition. It’s either an original survivor or a resto’d model. Are you sure about the year of the truck? The headline reads “1977 Ford F250 XLT Supercab”, but the grille looks like it came from a 1975 or 1973 Ford F250 XLT Supercab.

    Like 2
  7. Connecticut mark

    Beautiful angry looking truck with a load of an engine, looks great just stock rims, no hubcaps or alloy wheels, also he had low low reserves this will go over 20 grand. I would use it every day for work

    Like 1
    • Craig Prouty

      Sorry, but there are many red flags on this truck. Body is not a 1977 and Ford didn’t offer a super cab 4×4 until 1978.

      Like 2
  8. Yblocker

    As mentioned a few times above, something strange here.
    Grille is 73-75
    Exterior emblems are 73-76
    The hood is 78-79
    From what I can see of one of the valve covers, it is a 400, which would be 77 or newer.
    Steering wheel and column 78 or newer.
    Beautiful truck though, listing ended now

    Like 4
  9. Herb

    Dad bought a brand new ’77 F250, 400/4 spd,/4.10 gears. He still owns it, 80k or so on the meter. He’s in Assisted Living, 95 years old. I loved that truck!

    Like 0
  10. Kenneth L Gaar

    This is certainly a ‘ one of one ‘ original! Call it the Johnny Cash. lolol Anyway you someone is going to pay way too much for a combo -resto Frankintruck!

    Like 1
  11. Richard Gugenberger

    Nice older truck, I had one and it could do anything I ask of it except pass a gas station !

    Like 0

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