I almost have the '54 back together (short of a headliner). I now have the opportunity to purchase a 1948 F100 that is all in pieces. Since I'm currently unemployed, I thought I might use the time to build the '48 with the intent to sell it after its completion. I'm just not sure how strong of market there is for these classic trucks. I'm not going to make a fortune, but trying to figure out if it would be worth the time and effort.

I'm planning on looking at it next week and will update with pictures.
What I know thus far:
Rebuilt 5.0, 5 speed, 4 wheel disc, rack & pinon, posi rear, aluminum radiator. Most of the body work has been done. Interior is complete with new gauges.
It will be driver quality (not a show truck). I'd do the paint work myself.

Wondering what I should look out for?
What do these trucks go for?

 

first of all 1948 is a f1-not f100. it sounds like you have got a lot of good things going for you.how much is he asking for the 48 ? good luck,and i am sorry that you are unemployed right now.there will be other guys that will be able to answer your questions better than me.and welcome to fte

 

Impossible to say, prices for modified vehicles are all over the place. Generally unless you like working for $5 an hour (or less!) building a car to sell is a losing proposition. It is amazing how many actual hours it takes to build a decent vehicle, and if prior work is not up to par you get to do it over. Flipping with no little to no time investment is the only way to make money IMO.

 

If you have the motor trans and rear in and operational about 7500 From there all the paint body and details of a build bring them to 13000 to 25000 in my opinion. Im really looking forward to the pictures but some things to look at for are failed chops, cut frames, non matching vin numbers and tons of body filler.

 

At best, most restored or restomod trucks sell for about cost of the work. There are exceptions, of course, but taking on a vehicle as a money making venture is not a wise move.

All the 'reality' car shows that show how easy it is are as misleading as much of the home flipping drivel.

 

I'd think if the base truck could be bought for next to nothing and you had an assembly line type operation of experienced mechanics and bodymen, painters and the rest of it, could make out OK. Competent restoration trucks are a good value, because as someone mentioned they usually can't get their labor out of it. If you break even or a little better probably doing good.

 

I'd never do it thinking I could profit from it

 

Sure way to get a small fortune flipping vehicles is to start with a large fortune...

If you want to make a little extra money on the side, you might put out the word that you're doing repair work at home. Got to keep it on the downlow and stay in your area of expertise, tho.

 

Ross is right. You'll make more, with far less risk, by doing cash only brake jobs.

 

Asking price is around $9,000, but willing to negotiate. I might try to see it tomorrow.
Runs and drives. Was going to do a crown vic subframe (still has) but decided to use the stock axle with rack & pinion and disc brakes instead. Cab has been painted (bc/cc). Fenders, hood, running boards in primer and ready to paint. Said there was no rust. The box has a welded steel floor but was going to purchase a new bed for it. New chrome bumpers. New wiring kit. New exhaust/ mufflers but needs pipes from mufflers back. Needs front windshield and rear glass.

My thought was I'd rather be doing something with my time. I know if you factor the cost of my time, it won't be a profit generator. But if anything I'm trying to find justification for buying another truck right now! (Secretly would probably like to keep it once it's done haha)

I bought my first classic with my college savings under the guise it was an investment. I then had to work hard to get scholarships so I could keep the car!

Re: F1 vs F100 - I'm more familiar with the '53-'56 so I didn't even question it when he said "F100"!

 

That's big money for a project. No room for much profit, if any.

 

You are going to be at about the sell price with just the materials to finish the truck. This will not be a money maker.in any sense.

if your intention is to end up with another truck, go for it. If this is intended to provide some sort of financial return, you would be best to rethink the project.

 

Pics would help on value. The big question is how much you will give for it? Also is he giving up the rest of the paint to finish painting the rest of the truck? What else is need to finish it?

 

Restored Price guide from Hagerty's Value tool = $41,900 Concours to $6,800 for #4.

 

That's why I make cab corners and fender patches......