Ford’s sixth-generation F-series arrived in 1972 for model year 1973, and is affectionately known as the “Dentside” by Ford fans. This example is a one-ton 1977 F-350, equipped with two-wheel drive and a flatbed. The truck comes with its original manuals, a smattering of spare parts – and a rebuilt engine. It can be found here on craigslist with an asking price of $12,000. If you’re ready to take it home, you might be able to coax it along the road from Erie, Colorado; the seller notes that its gas mileage ran about 12 mpg during the truck’s last long drive. Thanks to Mike F for the great tip!
Ford expanded its engine offerings with the advent of its sixth-generation trucks. This one is a rebuilt 400 cu. in. V8, good for 170 net hp, backed by a four-speed manual. While the engine’s output isn’t stupendous, torque registered about 325 lb-ft at 1600 rpm. The radiator, brakes, and clutch are new. Tire chains, a few spare parts, and its original manuals are included. The odometer reads 114,256 miles.
This truck’s honest presentation, original paint, and clean interior are impressive, which is why it’s worth featuring at Barn Finds. An owner who cares enough to keep his vehicle in good condition through the years, then gives it a quick spiff before a well-conceived photo shoot – that’s enough to generate a measure of trust in the product. Note that while Ford moved the gas tank out from behind the seat in ’77 for safety reasons, that didn’t apply to the flatbed. In another response to regulations, the austere metal dash here wears a padded “cap” – by 1979, the entire dash would be clad in vinyl.
Speaking of the flatbed, the 9′ deck has new wood. A 1977 F-350 has a GVWR of 10,000 lbs; towing capacity varies by engine and rear axle (a 4.10 in this case) – the seller claims 13,500 lbs. F-350s were the raw material for many an ambulance and fire truck back in the day – a testament to the reliability and ruggedness of these workhorses. Prices vary tremendously, with highs hovering around $50k for 4x4s in outstanding condition or with modern mechanicals, and lows in the four figures for projects. This spiffy flatbed sold for just $7200 a couple of months ago, implying that our seller may need to accept a discount to move this ’77 down the road.
“It’s a girl my Lord, in a flatbed Ford slowing down to take a look at me”,,in memory of Glenn Frey, the Eagles, ESPECIALLY Joe Walsh( Rocky Mountain Way), were just the best.
This truck captures everything about a work truck there is. Typically, these were service trucks with an array of equipment,,all business. I read, the F-350 was still considered a “light duty, albeit, the top end, the F-500 was considered the only medium duty, discontinued in ’77, and the F600 and up became the heavy duty With that, they are probably the best maintained, but don’t expect too many comforts, again, all business. They didn’t go far, and probably accurate miles, they sat in a field most of their lives, while the mechanic did their thing, and the farmer nervously looking on. I don’t have to remind folks how expensive trucks like this are today, and don’t do much more than these, give me this anyday. Great find.