Hello All -
I have a restored 1960 F-100 and I love it to no end, but lately the Ranchero has been creeping into my thoughts. I will, of course, always be faithful to my '60 effie, but there is something hypnotic about the lines of a Ranchero - so my question to all you Ranchero enthusiasts out there is - Which year should I look in to getting and restoring? I am fond of the pre-70 models, but the rest is fair game - I would love to hear your stories about why you love your Ranchero, and any pros or cons you see in them. Thanks so much for your help!!!

 

Get yourself a `66 or newer so if you ever decide to put a big block in, it will go without cutting the truck to pieces.
AL.

 

i got a 64 and i love it to the bitter end.......BUT!i'm stuck with small with small block engines because shock towers are inside motor compartment. my 289 is shoe horned in. absolutely refuse to cut anything in this one. 66 or newer if you want big block accessibilities.

 

well dozer, some may be better than others for different reasons but to call one year the best would be impossible. the ranchero survived through so many changes and platform designs its a shame not to have one to date. the ford ute came back from 1930 and its.......uh how can I say this nicely. ok its UGLY.

but your right about the ranchero lines. their all unique and eye catching. I love my 77 GT, its just fun to drive weather is cruisin on a curvy back road, hauling a couch or running down the drag strip. I can't really think of anything I haven't done with it.

but if I had to choose a few, body wise I would say 57,58 any of the 69-75 and 77-79.

 

I really like my 72 GT. When I welded in the body panels on a friend's 70, I decided I wanted a full frame. I haul my Harley in mine on occasion and with airbags, it just rolls on down the road. It'd be a handfull in a pre-72. Rides smooth but could be a little firmer( better shocks and a watts link for the rear)