I am a new member and can't seem to find the correct way to Post a New Question, so I will proceed in this format.Please correct me if I am wrong. I have built three antique cars in the past 15years but never a Truck. I am looking at a 1954 F100 which seems to be in good shape but I have not been able to put it on my lift as yet. The owner has consigned it to a local used car dealer and I must wait for his approval to inspect it while on my lift. Althought, it seems that the frame and Body are in good condition from what I can see by looking under it, I have discovered what I consider an unusual item that is beneath both doors. It is a rubbery strip between the door frame and what I believe is called the running board or the place where you step up to get into the cab area. This rubbery strip runs the entire length of the door but is not attached to the door. Both sides of the Truck have this item. I cannot determine how this is suppose to be part of the frame or Chassis/body. I have been unsuccessful in finding a diagram or pictures on the Internet of what this sturcture should look like. I would appreciate any advice on this matter as I would like to buy this truck if the frame, body,suspension and mechanics are in good condition, which they seem to be except for this rubbery item. I have never seen this type of device before on any cars that I am familiar with or even trucks. Ron

 

The rubber strip fills the gap between the bottom of the cab and running board. Just a fill strip. They are available in the aftermarket. Nice that yours still has them. Mine usually are long gone when I buy trucks. They slide into a C channel mounted to the underneath of the cab. Here is a place that sells them http://midfifty.com/item.php?INV_ID=232 If you click on their "instructions" link they have a nice PDF of the setup. Enjoy!

 

Teardropty, thank you for your quick response. My experience with truck franes, Chassis, and suspension is limited since I worked on cars although they basically are the same with some differences, especially in the older vehicles. I am 68 and sold all my cars 5 years ago and swore that I was retired from this hobby but the truck caught my eye and on initial inspection seemed in good condition. If the price is right and upon futher inspection including engine condition I may just make minor repairs and clean it up, then enjoy scooting around town with it. Thanks again and I will forward pictures if and when I buy it. Best Regards, Ron.