I'm looking forward to your next progress report. I'm also new to FTE and just acquired a '53 F500 last week. Mine has been sitting for around 30 years, last licensed in '89. The previous owner swapped the original engine for a 300 inline 6, which I'm a fan of so will likley keep it. Will be looking for front fenders, inner wheel wells, and doing a lot of troubleshooting on the engine and electrical. Wheels are widowmakers all the way around but I've found some 20" split ring wheels for replacements; haven't found the elusive 19.5 " one-piece wheels from an old Ford or Dodge RV. Will also be looking to build a flatbed similar to the one on your truck. Best of luck to you and your build. Please keep the photos coming.

 

Bretsway -

I’m juggling a few projects right now so progress is sloooooow. Almost finished with the complete tear down. Hopefully in the next month I can get the frame to powder coat and the engine to the machine shop. This is what she looks like today

 

Make sure you have everything done that needs to be done before taking it for powder coat. I completely painted mine then made the decision to change plans and have many areas the need repainted. Powder coating isn't as forgiving as paint..

 

Good tip, thanks. I’m trying to work out all of the details, but things keep changing!

 

Progress on this build continues to be slow, but it is moving along. It has evolved into a much more involved build that I expected. Decided to go with a 5.9 12v Cummins and 47rh transmission. Found a deal on axles out of a 1995 F SuperDuty with disc brakes. Had to fab all of the steering components. At this point, everything has been mocked up, and torn back down. Just got the frame back from powder coat.

 

Looking good.

That diesel is a great engine for your truck.

 

Looks like your F-500 has a fresh air heat system. There is a F-500 in our area has a Holmes 500 wrecker body installed it’s a project,but looking good.AJ

 

yes looks good so far and i too think that Cummins is a good choice for your Truck.

 

Slow progress, but finished rebuilding the Cummins and transmission.

 

That engine and transmission combination is going to be awesome in that build.

Keep up the good work.

 

It is progress. I see you have a fuel can on the frame. Did you get it running? Show us a video.

 

Yes sir, it fired right up! Looks like the video isn’t uploading.

 

I’ve been doing the cab disassembly and have a few patch panels in my future (expected).

is there a Harry on here that once owned a 53 F500? I found this note under the seat.

 

Busy weekend! All 4 cab corners repaired, cab blasted and sprayed some epoxy primer.

 

It is looking good.

I am enjoying watching your build.

You are at about the same place I am, except I have been on mine for another year.
I have too many projects.