My '53 only has a door lock on the pass. side. It is a standard truck so wondering if this is normal or if one of the doors might have been a replacement.

 

Deluxe Cabs in 53 and 54 had the driver's side lock. Custom Cabs in 55 and 56 had them.

Idea was you lock door and slide out pax side...keeps you from getting out into traffic on narrow roads/streets.

 

Very normal. Henry expected his owners to lock the driver's side door - by pulling the inside door handle up - and then sliding across the seat to safely exit via the passenger door - which could then be locked. Your driver side door should lock. Try it. With the window down, so it's easier to reopen the door.

 

I added the key hole to my drivers door.

 

I have considered that. But wondered how difficult that might be.

Being that I just got the truck figured I would drive it a little while before changing much.

 

On 53-56's you lock the doors from the inside by pushing the handle down. Pulling up on the handle opens the door.

 

Second most asked question after what frame will swap.

 

Ha-ha! You are probably right!

 

I've thought about making the hole in my drivers door on my 56. Can someone confirm that the locking mechanism is there? The cylinder just was not installed at the factory?

 

The latch is the same. You need the cylinder with spring and lock lever and the cylinder retainer that installs from the edge of the door. Mid Fifty sells a cylinder installation kit with instructions and drill template.

 

The driver's door even has the slot the cylinder retainer clip slides through, just not the hole for the cylinder.

 

And the plastic plug in the transmission oil pan the
first time the pan is removed.

 

I have a set of door locks and ignition cylinder all keyed the same. Also have the Mid-Fifty's template somewhere. PM me if your interested.

 

Does it work on a 52 F1?

 

I don't know, I suspect not, 48-52 use a completely different type latch from 53-56, but I do know where you could find out, call Classic Haulers Home - Classic Haulers F-1 Parts and ask. They list a door lock with flapper and keys for the 48-52. Ask them to send you one of their free catalogs while you have them on the phone.