Hey everyone, I'm new to the forums and I'm looking for your expert opinions before I make a purchase. I'm thinking about buying a 1955 F100, as far as I can tell it's pretty much all original other than a repaint years ago (automatic 272 V8 engine, I would assume it's original, not sure though). Supposedly the last owner had it for 20 years and recently passed away, it hasn't been driven much in a few years but it had a total engine and tranny rebuild about 1000 miles ago. It looks like a solid truck and something I could drive for now and put my stamp on over time. I have never owned a vehicle like this, am I crazy for considering it? I'm no mechanic so anything major I would have to farm out. I'm not looking for a daily driver but something to drive in the summer for fun, maybe use the bed when needed, etc. I really like the look of the truck but I also don't want to get myself in too deep. It looks like a pretty bare bones truck, I'm guessing no power anything (something else that is new to me). Let me know your thoughts, what I should look for, what I should avoid, etc. Any advice you have to give would be greatly appreciated!

 

good morning and welcome to FTE

these might give you some ideas..

http://www.fordtruckzone.com/threads...part-i.654895/

http://www.fordtruckzone.com/threads...art-ii.654896/

good luck with your new obsession

later
john

 

Thanks for a point in the right direction!

 

Welcome! Many current owners started as you are - more eager than aware. If you wish, posting pics here will allow a very knowledgeable group to chime in. The more important elements of your prospective purchase are brakes, engine, and steering. You want these three to be in safe working condition. Sheetmetal, paint, and the interior are not critical - they are often the primary focus of the wannabe owner.

The short course would have you buy the very best vehicle you can afford - avoiding the 'great buy' that is a certified money/time sink. In addition, once bought, resist the temptation to convert the truck into a big pile of parts - drive it as it sits instead. Experience behind the wheel will make you smarter about the true condition of things and better prepared to consider alternatives.

 

Welcome to FTE!

I agree with both DW and John. And we really would like to see some pics of the truck.

 

I'd be glad to post some but since I just joined today I don't think I'm allowed to put attachments on my messages.

 

You can add pics any time. There's no restriction on number of posts. I added pics in my first post.

Click on the Insert Image icon


If the pics are somewhere on the Internet, copy the URL into the top bar. If the pics are on your computer, search for them and Insert.

 

Not the case. Just use the yellow icon (looks like a postcard) and follow the instructions.

 

 

 

There's a few, let me know what you guys think.


Thanks.

 

I think that's a nice looking truck!

 

Thanks, that's what I'm thinking too, I just never have delved into something like this before. I'm not looking to restomod it or do anything too crazy with it (famous last words), I'm just looking for something fun that I can tinker with from time to time but also will get me places on occasion. I was told it starts and runs well, but since it hasn't been driven much in the last few years it would need a going over by a mechanic to make sure things are working and safe to drive. I know these things are a labor of love but I'd rather not have to put a ton of money into it right off the bat.

 

Another question for you knowledgeable folks - what's a good price to pay for a truck like this?

 

I see you're in Ohio. Someone from the Midwest more familiar with your area and these "newer" trucks can chime in.

A lot depends on what you mentioned... is it driveable, does it stop and steer correctly...