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I recently registered here on FTE so i could perhaps get some insight into what would be required to restore a 51' F5 stakebed to running condition for selling purposes I will post pics and tackle things as they come. Thank you for any wisdom/instruction. Here i figure i need a rad, but my main issue is the charging system...i think its a 6v. I would like to know which batt. would be used here? Here is a closer look at the solenoid i believe.
I am restoring my 52 F3 and am not the expert, however, the things I needed to do to get the engine running were:
*New wiring in engine compartment
*Grind all ground points
*New plugs, wires, distributor cap
*New hoses, new fluids
*New fuel pump
*I was able to clean my fuel tank with CLR-Pro and marbles, but seems like most people go straight to a new tank.
Before you get too far down the 'start it up' path, find out if the engine rotates. You can try to turn the fan belt by hand - clockwise as you face the truck. If you have a wrench or socket that fits the nut on the end of the crankshaft. The intention is to turn the crank not tip the truck over. Put some pressure and muscle into it without going nuts. If you don't have the tools, just get a grip on the belt or pulley and give it a go.
If the engine rotates, then moving on to other steps will be in order. First things first.
Good luck and please post your results.
If your only goal is to sell the truck, I'd do as DW says above, after pulling the spark plugs and squirting a little oil in each cylinder. There is a pretty limited market for F-5's, and having it in running condition is not likely to get you much more money than being able to say "it turns". Getting it in running condition will cost a fair amount of money (I'd guess near a grand minimum). Getting it in driving condition would cost thousands more.
Agree with above. I would consider selling it as a "roller" instead of dumping a lot of money into the engine, chassis, brakes, electrical, etc.
What does the rest of it look like? Solid floors, cab corners, good glass, interior? From the pics you posted, it looks a little "rough" under the hood with regards to rust issues.
That's a cool rig, actually. Old tanker...little rough but "different". After looking at it, I would definitely recommend you sell it "as is" if you don't plan on building it for yourself.
@abe wasn't there a story/post about a Flathead 8 running with a mouse nest in one of the cylinders?
Cool truck. I agree with the others. Getting it running won't help too much. Knowing that it spins is a big plus. Brakes are another big issue.
If you get it running a person will still have a ton of work to do to finish it out. Also with the lesser demand for the larger trucks, your best bet is a little cleanup and sell as is.
Where is Stu? Are those widowmaker wheels or is he good to go there?
