Always wanted an old Ford truck. Just pulled the trigger. Not interested in a show car, just a weekender and something to tinker with. Motor runs good. Any thoughts?

 

Welcome to the forum. That might not be a show car, but it has been looked after by someone. That should be an immediate weekend driver - congrats.

 

I was told it was gone through about 75% 15 years ago. The body is pretty clean. A few bubbles and rust spots. As I said I am new to the game. I have read up on the overdrive but it is not functional at this point. It appears the block is from a 59?

 

Nice truck and welcome to FTE, the best Ford Truck Forum on the world wide web. And get got our one prerequisite correct.... Showing us pics of your truck. Glad to see another 54. It sure is purple! It looks in good shape and it has the original so Yblock.

Is the overdrive working? Is it the original overdrive?

Keep us up to date with any changes and be sure to ask questions here.

 

Definitely looks likes it close to a driver now and welcome.

 

That's a good looking truck.

I would do a complete condition assessment of the brakes, fuel system, steering, hoses, wiring, fluids, and tires. You really want to get in front of avoidable problems with wear/use stuff and make this as reliable a ride as possible.

Just a question: You indicated that the overdrive isn't working. Are you sure that is an OD tranny?

 

Welcome to FTE
Really like that color.

Couple of websites that might be helpful.

The Borg-Warner Overdrive Transmission Explained- FORDification.com
Parts: Borg-Warner Overdrive Parts | Fifth Avenue Internet Garage

 

Welcome, nice to see another 54.

 

Congrats on that! It looks great ...drive it and enjoy it and years from now if you wanna restore it you have a good starting point!!!

 

If the O/D is not working, there is a glass fuse on the O/D relay mounted on the firewall. Check to see if it has blown.

Here's a pic of the O/D unit. The electrical components including the (not shown) kick down switch and relay are 6V 1953/55, 12V 1956.

btw: If you live in LA LA Land, I know a guy who lives in West L/A that has a 1954 F100 with O/D

 

Welcome to the addiction, beautiful truck!

Any plans for it?


Also 10 years from joining date to first post? That's got to be a record!

 

Very sharp 54! Congratulations! The body looks really nice! You have some clean up on the Y block, but its all there, and should rive after you check the mechanical systems.
Good luck and have fun! I like the garage and lift! Every guy should have both!
Regards,
Chris

 

-Thank you all for the input. Some great suggestions I will get started with. Still trying to figure if this is the original Y-block. I looked up the block I.D. and it appears to be out of a 59? (272,292?)

-Looking around locally for someone to help with tranny as well. Thank you for the diagram Bill. I traced the overdrive cable to where it enters the tranny so I assume it is an overdrive.

-Was busy this weekend, will start with hoses, belts and wiring asap (it has been converted to 12volt and it is a mess under the dash)

-Hey Abe I saw you had a source for those radiator elbow pipes. Those look like a great addition. Are they still available?

I wish I had a lift at home! That was just the local mechanic buddy who helped me with the oil filter adapter.

-I don't have any aspirations to have a show car. I am 53 years old, and it is great to look at this truck and realize it is 10 years older than me!

-I have learned alot, and am open to all input

I will have many questions coming, great forum!
Jason

 

Yes, Jason, I have a radiator elbow pipe for you. PM me with your zip code. I will need $20 plus actual shipping. Once I have your zip I can Tell you the total. Thanks.

 

Abe. zip is 90621
Thank you