First let me introduce myself. My name is Dan and I live in Colorado. I have always wanted a classic truck since my Dad had a 1954 Chevy back in the 70s. Unfortunately it was sold before I could drive it, but it left a lasting impression.
Fast forward many years.... So, after looking at many trucks, and dreaming of this day, I happened upon a 1948 F3 in the kind of shape I was looking for, and best of all, in my budget! It doesn't run and has sat for awhile, but the body is solid and the owner says it was "running when parked" (And the engine looks like that is a possibility).
This will be a long term project for me and my sons. I am technically the third owner, but the guy I am buying it from bought the property with the truck on it, so I like to think I am the second owner
Today is the day I bring it home! Can't wait
I have found manuals and such for it, but cannot locate a VIN decoder. Anyone know of a site for this? Also, some newbie questions... Is it necessary to add lead additive when filling up? What is a good oil to use that has the correct properties for this engine (any additives needed?). What other newbie advice does anyone have for me? This will be my first project of this vintage. My last project was a 1981 Jeep J10.

Here she is:


Does anyone know if this color on the tank was factory?



This site has already been a huge help. Thanks in advance for answering the stupid questions I have and will have in the future!

Dan

 

Welcome aboard Dan, you story sounds similar to mine. My dad sold his 50 something Chevy pickup when I was 14. I really fell in love with old trucks a couple of years later. That was the early 80's.
The LMC truck catalog has a vin decoder.
LMC Truck Parts - Pages 8 and 9

I'm a bit of a newbie as well so I will defer to others on the engine questions.

What engine do you have in the truck? It looks like the stock choices were 226 6 cylinder and 239 flathead V8.

Here are some threads on lead additives.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/9...ly-needed.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...ubstitute.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...upplement.html

Be sure to keep us posted on your progress and we love pictures

 

Thanks for the welcome. It's got the 226 I6 in it.
I'll post some more pictures when I get it home. Those threads cleared up the gas AND oil question. Thanks.

 

Congrats and good luck. Looks alot better than what I started with.

 

I'm beginning to realize, after seeing a lot of project pictures, that I am in a great place for finding old trucks in good shape. Gotta thank the Army for that!

 

I'll add my welcome. Your truck looks like it's in great shape, and I share your appreciation for the bigger models. There are, however, two issues with the F-3 model that you'll want to be aware of. First is the type wheel used on the F-3s, it's called a "widowmaker", and second is the rear axle with its 14" brake drums. Rather than me rattle on about these issues, I'll attach a couple of old threads that go into these and other issues with the early F-3s. You'll find a lot of great help here, so please keep us posted on your project. Stu

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...9-ford-f3.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...ml#post5470496

 

Looks to be in good shape!

 

Looks like a nice project, tank appears to be original "Sheridan Blue" color.

 

Welcome.
I have the same truck in the Mercury version. It's nice to see others with the F3(M68).

 

Welcome to the forum! Nice looking truck!

I've got a strange request: could you post a close-up pic of that tool that's in your tool tray? Mine had a very very similar one and I can't figure out exactly what its purpose is. Mine has a square socket on the end, so not a lug wrench; maybe for a jack?

PS -- take the widowmaker stuff seriously, and before you get too far down the road. Replacements aren't going to be cheap, most likely.

 

Welcome aboard......nice score!!!

I like the fact that the previous owner kept the tool tray!!!

Now the fun begins......

Congrats......

-

 

welcome from a newbie.....the firsta threads on this forum are full of info for newbies...if you post your vin the other members will help you fugure it out,if you dont then try the book.....great project....seth

 

Welcome aboard, looks like you got a nice truck to start with.

 

Welcome aboard, glad to have another new truck owner and ARMY bro on here. Listen to these guys n gals, they can help you out with pretty much anything you can think of. What kind of plans do you have for her, a restoration or are you going to the darkside with it?

 

Welcome to the asylum!