I live in the Detroit, MI area and have been scouring craigslists ads for a few months looking for a rust-free '70's era Ford 4x4 truck - preferably F-250. I'm not willing to drive or fly to the states where these rust-free classics are found - like Arizona - just because of the cost and time that would be involved. My plan has been to find one for about $2000 or so, and after talking to the seller to kind of get a feel for him, would just send a certified check for the money, with a return FedEx envelope where he could send me the title, then he would just hold the truck until a shipper (that I arrange for) would pick it up and ship it to me.
Now, you can see the inherent dangers in this "plan". It is loaded with potential for me to get ripped off. This is where one of you might come in handy. I would feel much more comfortable arranging the purchase of a vehicle with someone on this forum. Mostly because most here seem very friendly and willing to help out, but also because there would be some possible way to track down a forum member should things "go bad". I am willing to pay for this service - like $100 or so.
This is what I have in mind, see if any of you can offer suggestions to make it better. Here is the truck I am currently looking at:

1976 ford f-250 4x4

Now, my plan is to pay someone here $100 to take a look at it and give me a report. Nothing too in-depth. Mostly that it is as advertised, runs well, drives well, etc. If the report is good, I would FedEx the forum member a cashiers check to cash and give to the seller. He would then take possession of the truck until my shipper would pick it up. What do you guys think about this? Is anyone here willing to do that, or something similar? I'm open to all ideas and suggestions. Thanks for your input!!!

 

Just for your info the truck you linked is over an hour from Phoenix. It is up in the mountains to the east. about 64 miles from Phoenix.
Phoenix would be the closest members to that area.
Good Luck.

Craig

 

OK, I did not know that. Thanks!

 

No problem. Most of the members in Phoenix work full-time. There are a couple of members like me who are retired.
I'm 284 miles from Superior so a little far for me to be of help to you.

Craig

 

Pics show an aftermarket radio has been installed and a front bumper that only came on 1973/77 Ranger XLT's, as it has horizontal bumper pads.

It appears to have had optional bumper guards, as the upper bumper bolts are missing. Threaded studs on guards went thru these holes.

Bumper guards introduced in 1968, same ones used thru 1977 and they'll also fit 1964/67's.

The only AZ chapter members I know personally own 1961/72's. Of these, garbz2 (Dave) is the most experienced, but he lives in Glendale, which is NNW of Phoenix.

 

I think Garbz is retired or not working an 8-5 job. I maybe wrong though. I also have met Garbz & he is very sharp on these trucks & in general. Most likely the best to help you.

Craig

 

don't forget that all trucks in Arizona are not "Arizona" trucks. when i was finding trucks for a ranch I work for most of the trucks I looked at were from the rust belt or the coast and quite rusted (by Arizona standards) a lot of people bring them here as they are cheeper in other areas and re sell them

 

If the DSO code stamped on the 3rd line-far right of the Warranty Plate is 75 = Phoenix AZ Ford District Sales Office, where the original selling dealer ordered the truck from.

Here are all the DSO (DISTRICT CODES) from the 1964/72 catalog...1973/79 is the same.

 

Great info Bill.

Bart, sure don't find that too surprising. It is probably harder to find an Arizona vehicle in Arizona that from elsewhere. Then I would prefer not to buy vehicles out of Mohave County, after watching people drive here no telling what shape a vehicle is in. I see them driving like they are on fire on rough dirt roads all the time.


Craig

 

Craig,

I was able to get back to work in Late December after the heart attack and Quintuple Bypass.

Joegeds

I am not able to get out the 60 to that area for a few weeks.

Garbz

 

Garbz, I'm glad to hear your doing better. I knew you were in the hospital, but this is the first update I have read. Surgery is not fun or easy as we get older. Take care of yourself, don't push yourself too fast or hard. Again glad to hear your doing better.

Craig