The Ford F-Series was developed in 1947 for the 1948 model year, on a truck-specific platform, with your choice of a flathead V8 or a six-cylinder. These elements set it apart from its competitors. GM still placed a truck body on a passenger car frame and offered only a six-cylinder. Dodge used body designs carrying features from before the war at a time when customers wanted to leave that era behind. Meanwhile, the early F-Series incorporated the “Million-Dollar Cab” design, with a taller windshield, extra width, and better visibility out the rear; this morphed into the “Five-Star Cab” with even more glass area by 1951. Telescoping shocks and interior appointments such as sun visors and the “See-Clear” foot-operated windshield washer added to the allure. Here on craigslist is a half-ton 1951 Ford F1 pickup project for sale, with an asking price of $6,500, located in Crossville, Tennessee. We have T.J. to thank for this tip!

The 239 cu. in. flathead V8 made 100 bhp. Three transmissions were offered on the F1: two three-speed manuals, one being heavy duty; and a four-speed. This truck has one of the three-speeds, on the column. The seller indicates he changed the electrical system to a 12-volt starter and matching alternator, with negative ground, away from the 6-volt system, a common conversion New parts are evident under the hood.

The interior shows off the original Coral Red paint color. The two smaller gauges are not original and there’s one gauge missing; the dash should look like this. Still, this cabin is not as ratty as we’ve seen on some barn finds. The seller does admit that despite the running and driving condition of the truck, it is a project with needs.

In 1951, F1 buyers got a hardwood bed. This one looks like it’s in great shape. Also in 1951, the grille was changed from a multi-slat chrome job to this toothy design, painted either white or silver. We’re told all the body panels are original, which means Henry’s Maintenance Service once existed! There’s little serious rust showing anywhere on this truck. The truck has no title because it spent time in Connecticut which doesn’t title older vehicles. The owner does have a chain of bills of sale from various registrations, as well as several parts, and potential buyers are reminded that the truck will need to be trailered away. So could this one find space in your garage?