Hey guys! I am new to the group, and there are probably threads on this but I’m not sure how to search them.

I have never restored a vehicle before. I’ve always liked the 80s model F150s, and am thinking of buying one and letting it be my restore. Specifically an 86’ Ford F150, same as my birth year.

I’ve never owned an older truck. Looking for a couple of things. One, what should I look for when buying, good or bad. Secondly, what kind of money am I looking at in the long term for a project like this? Not really determining factor on the restore but I’d still like to know roughly what a restore cost.

any help or advice would be appreciated.

 

I probably can’t answer all your questions since some are subjective and you’re gonna get a lot of opinions BUT...if you plan on doing the work yourself the first thing to think about when considering a project such as a restoration is your ability to perform mechanical, body, electrical, etc. repairs. These projects are normally very labor extensive. Also, do you have the proper tools such as a proper size air compressor, welder, grinders, sanders (air & hand blocks), etc. Not to mention if you have a good place to work in to keep your project out of the weather. If you’re good with all that then you’re ahead.
Like most older trucks you need to look closely at underside such as the floor pans, rockers, bed cross members, etc. A patch panel here or there is fine but being your first project I wouldn’t get into floor pan replacement, numerous heavy rust repairs,etc.
I also wouldn’t advise getting into a full engine rebuild right now. Machine work is very expensive and you really need some knowledge of part selection. Engine swaps would be more in line if you found a truck with a good body with a bad engine.
I would also look around at some prices for things like body parts, interior, fuel system components, brake system, body supplies, etc. to get an idea of some material costs.
The good thing is depending on where you are located you may find these trucks in salvage yards with a lot of goodies left on them.
Right now I have two of these trucks (not for sale) one has a good body with bad engine and the other has a 75k mile excellent running engine/trans with rusted out body. I’ll take these two and make one, which is very common with these old trucks. Lots of different ways to plan this depending on your ability and personal taste.

 

JalopyJake has a lot of great points.

You'll probably also want to check out and/or post in the "1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks" forum about a third of the way down the main forum page.

Welcome aboard!