Many buyers don’t want the significant cost of mechanical refurbishment when purchasing a classic to park in their driveway. Therefore, enthusiasts searching for a Pickup might find this 1978 Ford F-250 Custom irresistible. It is a rock-solid survivor, but its freshly rebuilt engine and transmission could be its trump card. It seems others agree, with this survivor receiving fifteen bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Lewistown, Ohio. The action has pushed the price to $8,200, although it remains below the reserve.

This F-250 is pretty typical of the breed, with the bed showing plenty of scratches and its exterior sporting a few chips and marks. However, the Chrome Yellow and Cinnamon Glow paint retains a healthy shine, although it has worn thin in a few areas. The panels are straight, and delving below the surface reveals rock-solid floors and no frame issues. These older Pickups often require rust repairs, but the grinder and welder can stay in the cupboard this time. It would undoubtedly benefit from a cosmetic refresh, although this isn’t a pressing need. The new owner can take their time with that decision and might elect to preserve this F-250 as a survivor. The trim and glass are in good order, and the relatively new aftermarket wheels contrast the aged paint.

Buyers could choose from five engines to power their 1978 F-250, with this Pickup’s first owner selecting the 460ci V8. It was the largest engine available, and they teamed this with a three-speed C6 automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power brakes. In its prime, this monster motor delivered around 200hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque, but this beast might do better. The seller includes an invoice in their listing, revealing the 460 received a rebuild in 2020. There were no half-measures in the process because it was bored and received new pistons, rings, bearings, valves, and an upgraded camshaft. It looks like there might be a new carburetor atop the original intake, meaning the buyer can expect a few additional ponies under the right foot. The transmission received similar attention, and the braking system is loaded with new components. It would be fair to expect the F-250 to be in excellent mechanical health, and potential buyers won’t be disappointed. It runs and drives perfectly, with no issues or problems.

This Pickup’s interior sends potential buyers mixed signals. The painted surfaces and door trims are in good order, the dash is free from problems, and the pad hasn’t suffered UV damage. However, it is unclear what hides beneath the rather tatty slipcover. The seat might be okay, or it might require a retrim. That needn’t be a major concern because I located a company that sells covers for around $380. The attraction of that organization is that its entire range is one price, regardless of whether the buyer selects full vinyl or vinyl with cloth inserts. Aftermarket additions include gauges by the driver’s left knee and a Lokar shifter for the C6.

The bidding total for this 1978 Ford F-250 Custom is healthy, but the price remains very modest. It probably needs to top $10,000 before hitting the reserve, although the ongoing popularity of classic Pickups means a higher figure is possible. Potential buyers are keen, but do you share their enthusiasm?