OK, it looks old on the outside but it’s anything but that, mechanically speaking. Always popular, mid-fifties Ford F100 pickups are a big draw these days. The seller states, “ALL WORK PROFESSIONALLY DONE“, and yes, that appears to be the case. All hopped up and ready to go, this sharp-looking F100 is located in Fresno, California and is available, here on Barn Finds Classifieds for $39,500.
A big deal today is to wax on endlessly about “patina”, even going to the point of clear coating what amounts to surface rust. The finish of this truck looks worn but whether it’s original or not is not stated. Regardless, it shows well, in an inconspicuous way, and compliments the vibe. Other than the chromed wheels and lowered stance, I’d go as far as suggesting that this truck’s exterior appearance is understated. Interestingly, the front bumper, which appears to be missing endcaps, isn’t – that’s how Ford intended them to be. Most ’56 F100s that I could find are wearing a rear bumper but that’s not the case with this example – nevertheless, its absence visually works. Of note, the vent windows have been removed creating a more open, uninterrupted, and streamlined appearance.
No Y-block for this Ford, it’s sportin’ a 4.6-liter OHC V8, synched up to a five-speed manual transmission and backed up by a nine-inch differential. Up front is a Mustang II suspension and all four corners mitigate the “go” factor with disc brakes. The seller adds, “SOLID TRUCK. TRUCK CRUISES AT 80 DOWN THE FREEWAY, NO PROBLEM“.
Inside, the first thing the driver will notice is a billet speedometer cluster with replacement gauges, a dash-mounted tachometer, a new carpet, an aftermarket steering wheel, and a reupholstered bench seat. The door panels have been recovered and assist in pulling the entire, clean environment together. Oh, and there’s no lack of pinstriping, just check out that dash. Oh, and air conditioning? You bet!
Needs? None that I can discern, this F100 is good to go as is. The popularity of these F100s, old F150s, Chevy C-10s, etc. doesn’t seem to be abating. Actually, as mainstay muscle cars have reached stratospheric price heights, these old trucks have moved in to fill that “what’s next?” space. And this Ford is certainly a worthy muscle car alternative, wouldn’t you agree?
Vent windows and suspension taken out.
Hard pass.
Very nice build! Not too mild, not too wild. This would be a fun driver.
Wow! Look at that! All Ford drivetrain and front end set up who would thunk it!! 😂
I doubt there’s a 2nd gen Ford pickup fan that wouldn’t approve of this. I know I rip on Calyforny a lot, but even a grump like me, appreciates what comes out of that place. It’s a bit too low for my tastes, but this is what should be done to all of these. Tailgate me with that funky RAM will ya’, drop a gear, bag it, and it’s “tail light city” for those behind you. Easy to get in trouble with this one. What a cool truck!
but howard my ram has a hemi. lol
i agree with you it’s a bit too low for my taste.
my only other gripes over a beautiful job are again personal taste.
i don’t like that steering wheel and a don’t care for the fly window delete.
having said that she is a sweet looking ride!
Love low, love this truck.
Just how I would do it. Wouldn’t change a thing.
Oh, and as a bonus no moaning from the puritans about the lack of a Ford engine.
Taking the wingvent out might look better to some, but try driving it with the window down. I’d put them back but otherwise wouldn’t change anything.
I was considering selling my untouched 49 F100. But seeing something like this I’ll hold on to it.
RM, I hate to correct you, (well not really), BUT, in 1949 FORD trucks were named F-1. The F100 first year was 1953. Just thought you should know.
My grandfather had a candy apple red 56 like this,rode in it often growing up.in the late 70s he replaced the original y-block with a 351c 2v which was built and installed by my other grandfather who was a custom engine builder for 60yrs.it had a 3spd auto with an electronic switch for the overdrive which pulled out like a choke lever in the dash.he passed away in 1994 and the truck was sold in a estate sale
I totally agree this is a nice F-100 and I have had 6 of them, I think that gives me a base to know. My current ride is a twin to this truck with just a little more spit and polish, but still an everyday driver. When you are building one of these it is hard to know when to stop “When is enough ,enough?” I know I feel like maybe I should have stopped or at least checked up a little. What happens is you reach the level of this truck and the pricing is around 40 K and not a bad buy or sell. Then the stuff hits the fan and you have a 55 to 75 K truck and things go downhill from there. The buyers aren’t as plentiful and you start questioning your decision making skills. Sounds like a true story and life experience, yes of course it is! Welcome to car building 101.
And for all these years I thought I was doing it right. Glad I’m not the only one who went past 101.
@Joe, I have the same story different chapter. When selling unfinished street rods for around $20K there was a lot of buyers, when I hit the $55K plus they were a lot less buyers out there. Plus the fact you are leary of daily driving the vehicle and leaving in a public parking lot. Now days a $55K rod is not much of a car with what the cost of paint and interior are up to.
Bob & Dennis, Thanks for being in the same boat! It’s sink or swim and I don’t know which I should do. Historically, I am not a good swimmer.
@…Joe, I’m not sure I like being in your boat. LOL After I retired I built and sold 6 rods, a C1, a C2 and a early Chevelle. I did well on all but this younger generation is not much interested in rods and Vette [parts] prices are getting way out of hand. So I think I’m getting out of that boat. Age is a big factor too as getting on and off the creeper is a job in itself. Then I’m sore for the next three days. I’ve only got one rod left and I’ve had it 51 years.
Thanks guys, it is nice to know your not the only dumb ass, and you probably aren’t going to change.
This was my first vehicle a 56 f 100 all original 272 Y block 3 on the tree. It was a solid truck. Lots of play in the steering wheel until I replaced the worm gear box. It went through a lot of u joints but other than that was pretty reliable. Should of never sold it.