Hey all,

New to everything here and seems like a solid place to chat with experts.

I've had my eyes set on a 1950s era (probably 1952) Ford F1 and have been looking for a good balance between cost and a restored vehicle. Have also looked in (and love) the 3100 Series Chevy trucks.

I'm not looking for something that is in showroom condition, but would rather have a clean, running truck that I could work on in my spare time.

The issue I'm running into is that most (if not all) 1952s are 3-speed manuals with the stock 239 flathead motor. In LA, where I would drive this a few days per week, traffic is awful so an automatic would be ideal.

A transmission swap could work, but would (I think) run me $3k.

Have my eyes set on this beauty: http://www.hemmings.com/classifieds/...1/1818022.html

Anyway, looking for some thoughts on what direction to go, and how to find the perfect truck that I can keep making better and better (non-mechanically).

Thanks!

 

Welcome! For the kind of money shown in the ad, you should be able to find a truck with an automatic already installed. In addition, if you are intending to drive in LA, I would assume that front disk brakes would be desirable along with radial tires. I'll let Joe and the other Cali fellers chime in.

 

Thanks! You're right: disc brakes and the proper tires are key.

Being new to the hobby, $20k might be my max spend. I see some of these things going for $35-40k and sure, they are pristine, but I'd love to work on the truck myself and add the details down the road.

 

Welcome to FTE. For $20K you should be able to get something very nice.
Don't be afraid to look nation wide.

 

Welcome to FTE!

For $20K you should be able to find what you want. Check Craigslist for SoCal.

Here's one with automatic, disk brakes and more for $20,000.

https://ventura.craigslist.org/cto/5453952271.html

 

What is nice about both of those trucks is you can get in and enjoy them. Both are in a reasonable ball park as price goes. You might be able to make an offer that is less than what they are asking. Cash in hand. Realistically, that is actually what it would cost in todays dollars to build those trucks. I have been building mine for several years now and I'm not even close to driving it yet and I have at least more than half that into mine.

Good luck and BTW welcome to here, lots of experience here and really nice guys to ask about almost anything to regarding these dinasours.


edit: and girls too, we do have some of the prettier ones on here.http://bondorella.com/home/

 

Here is one a 48, that has newer engine and auto. Not much rust, but some body panels are wavy.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1948-Ford-F-100-/162018549665?_trksid=p2141725.m3641.l6368
Colorado is a ways away, but it could be a fun trip and it is currently less than half your price range, so there would be room for you to work on it.

 

Thanks guys. Excited for this adventure. I've been looking it will probably take some time to find almost the "right one."

I really do love the first truck I linked, although the tranny needs to go and probably brakes as well.

Here's a solid F100 but I'll admit, the F1 is what I'm in love with. That or the Chevy 3100...

1956 Ford F100 Pickup Truck
http://www.hemmings.com/classifieds/dealer/ford/f100/1799331.html

 

Buying the wrong truck doesn't get you on the road - or keep you on the road. Look for one with the tranny, brakes, and tires you need. Otherwise, you'll be the proud owner of a truck that you can't drive.

Choose wisely, Grasshopper.

 

Agreed 1000%

Not trying to sit there and look at it. Utility is key.

 

Might just have to bite the bullet and go for the first (dark blue) F1 above. Swap in some disc brakes and tires and enjoy it...

Something about that truck...

Automatic wasn't offered until 54 I believe anyway, and can be added later if needed...

 

I just thought I would mention that there is a thread on What to look for when buying a vintage truck. If you click on "Read First: 48/60 Forum Tips, Tricks, How To's! ( 1 2) Fomoko1", which is at the top of the main page and worth looking at. I'm not up on the price market, but I do know whatever 48-56 Ford truck you do buy will give you enjoyment that is rare at any price. Also as I'm sure you have already noticed, this site is also a very friendly, knowledgeable place where the folks are ready to help with a smile wich is also very rare these days. Welcome, and best of luck finding the right truck for you.

 

Thanks for the warm welcome. Will check out the thread. I've been browsing the various forum boards. Great place.

I've always wanted a classic truck, for many many years. But the dream will turn into a reality once I've done my research and of course, have found the right one. You'll know it when you see it. The bigger issue (or challenge) of course, is that these are older machines so unless they are pushing $30k and frame-off restos, some mods and upgrades will need to be done. But that's the fun part -- as long as it runs well in the first place!

Being new to the hobby and having little to no experience with car mechanics, there's a good amount of learning that needs to happen. But it's fun and a great hobby and something everyone here is passionate about. Gotta start somewhere!

 

Hey man, I was in your shoes for the last ten years and just finally decided I couldn't wait anymore. Bought my truck earlier this year and have already learned more in the last two months that I've ever known about any vehicle. I say if you can afford it just jump in with both feet. My truck ended up having more rust and issues than I had hoped but I see it as just part of owning a 60 year old truck.

I do agree though that finding one that will get you on the road is key. If I couldn't drive mine while working on it, I would be really frustrated. Good luck on the search. Ebay is great for looking but sometimes Craigslist is where you can find a real gem.