I typically avoid phrases like “time capsule” when describing classics because many enthusiasts believe such terms are overused. However, few terms describe this 1986 Ford F-150 XL Camper Special better. Its presentation is astonishing, and it is loaded wth desirable options. If you couldn’t afford a similar F-150 when they were new, this could be your chance to right that wrong. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this amazing survivor listed here on Craigslist in Seattle, Washington, for $14,300 OBO.
This F-150 XL left the line during the final year of Ford’s Seventh Generation F-Series production run. It is a stunning vehicle that can’t help but turn heads. Ordered in the Deluxe Two-Tone combination of Raven Black and Silver, it is a survivor that has led a sheltered life. The paint shines consistently, with no obvious cosmetic shortcomings. The panels are straight, and the Pickup’s garage-kept history makes its rust-free status unsurprising. The trim is spotless, and the glass is crystal clear. The first owner ordered the Camper Special Package, with this beauty still featuring items like the tie-down points. The rear bumper step is a practical addition, and the hitch receiver adds versatility. It would probably stretch credibility to call the F-150 factory-fresh, but there can’t be many survivor-grade examples that present this nicely.
The seller provides no engine bay images, but the information they provided paints a positive picture. This F-150 features the fuel-injected 302ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, power steering, power brakes, and manual locking front hubs. Ford introduced the injected version of the 302 in 1985, and the difference it made was profound. The carbureted version produced 133hp and 233 ft/lbs of torque, but the “fuelie” raised those figures to 190hp and 285 ft/lbs. That improved the Pickup’s towing and load-carrying abilities, which is never a bad thing for vehicles like this. The Camper Special Package added heavier springs, shocks, improved cooling, a trailer wiring harness, and other upgrades to cope with the increased loads. The seller says this survivor has 40,000 genuine miles on the clock, and although they don’t mention verification, the overall condition makes the claim plausible. They recently replaced the water pump, fuel pump, fuel tank, brakes, tires, batteries, control arms, and tie rods. They performed a tune-up, ensuring the F-150 is ready for action once the buyer hands over their cash.
If any part of a Pickup suffers with age, the interior typically takes the hit. Dirty clothes and boots can leave permanent stains and marks, and neglect shows in worn and damaged upholstery, carpet, and plastic. This Ford’s interior has avoided that fate and looks as impressive as the exterior. Trimmed in rich Red cloth and vinyl, finding faults seems almost impossible. The seat is spotless, as are the carpet and headliner. The door trims are excellent, and the dash looks perfect. It doesn’t just look good; it should also be extremely comfortable. Apart from cloth trim, the first owner ticked the boxes on their Order Form beside air conditioning, cruise control, the auxiliary gauge package with a factory tachometer, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player.
We’ve seen some fantastic Pickups over the years at Barn Finds, and this 1986 Ford F-150 XL could easily join that list. I consider its condition astounding for a forty-year-old survivor. The options increase its desirability, and the mileage is well below average. Recent successful sales suggest the seller’s price is extremely competitive, and since it’s been on the market for just over one day, someone may need to act fast to drive it home. Are you tempted?
underside photos ? tie rods, gas tank,control arms replaced ?
I’m going to agree with Adam. If this checks out in person like the photos show, this is an amazing find. Beautiful truck, equipped just the way I like it.
I agree with Dave, if this truck doesn’t trip your trigger, might want to dust off the BP machine. To me, and most other Ford truck fans, pickup development could have stopped right here. It’s difficult to express to younger folks, compared to what is available today, I’ll get to in a second. There is certainly no question as to the mileage, once again, dads pride and joy and you simply can’t go wrong here. Can’t shift a manual? Keep looking, you have no business in this beauty. Fantastic find.
Now, since this is a pickup post, this might interest some. My brother came to Co. for a visit, and rented a new RAM 1500, 4×4, 4 door pickup. All the gee-gaws under the sun. Everything was push button, not a leeeever at all. Naturally, I recognized very little, info screen, heated door handles(?),, it is a magnificent achievement. About as opposite this truck as one could imagine. He wanted to see what motor it had, I couldn’t have cared less,,pops the hood, underneath a mass of wires and plastic,,,we determined it was a SIX!!! An in line, twin turbo, twin OHC, SIX!!! They claim 420 HP!!! It had plenty of power, not sure I’d want to pull a 40ft. Airstream with it though. It was quiet, and absolutely no indication it was a 6. That, my friends, was mighty impressive, but I can’t help but think, of all the engine configurations we’ve been handed over the years, they go back to a 120 year old motor. All hail the turbocharger.
Do your homework writer, Ford didn’t make a camper special in 86. The ones they did make in earlier times were F250 or 350s never 150s. Nice looking truck though!
Yes this looks like a cream puff. What seems odd to me is all the suspension/steering components reported to have been replaced. Tie rods, ball joints and control arms should have been fine on a 40,000 mile truck regardless of age. The need to replace those suggests possibly 140,000 miles on a truck with a 5 digit odometer.
One the other hand, replacing the fuel tank and fuel system components could very well have been necessary on a truck that only averaged around 1000 miles a year due to condensation that occurs in the fuel tank, and remember, this is in Seattle, so that is worth considering. I would want to see how the true mileage is documented.
What a clean F-150. The silver/black two-tone looks great. The tire/wheel package fits the vehicle perfectly. Manual transmission. Lots of mechanical updates. Plenty to like here.
I pulled up the 1986 brochure. Ford did offer a “Trailer Towing/Camper Package” on the F-150. Adam merely picked up the verbiage from the seller. A minor error. Adam is a prolific contributor, I enjoy his work.
Trivia: in reviewing the brochure, the XL 503A offered 37 stand-alone options. That’s crazy, as compared to how today’s vehicles are packaged and equipped.
I was thinking there was something similar to the Camper Special. I agree with you BOB, Adam is a great contributor for Barn Finds. In the event an honest error being made it’s petty to call out AC in such condescending way.
nice but no a/c and a stick.
At that price it would make a great winter beater
This could easily sell for Double that on a lot out here in Southern Maine !
Is it really as clean as it looks ?
Curvete should get a bonus for this find.
Nice truck. Ordered like they should be and built like they used to
Even though it’s a 40yr old truck, and for the amazing condition (kudos to the owner for the time spent washing, waxing etc.) that they’re only asking $14,300. I’d definitely inspect it, but it appears to be an honest truck. I bet it sells quick.
Sold – Immediately no shocker
Sweet Truck
Just goes to show good deals do not last and this one looked like a great deal.
I think someone got a good deal nice looking truck even if it needed a few things Looks much better than a new one
Post deleted. Someone saw a good deal and didn’t futz around. Another PMW gem.
“Camper Special” on an F-150????? That is a first for me.