While in a scrap yard today looking for parts for my 1960 I came across a guy with a 1948 for sale; it ran but the radiator was bad and most of the body was in primer but not ready for paint. No real major body problems. The owner estimated approx $3000 for body work and paint. He offered it to me for $1400 as is. It had a 302 and power disc brakes, no running boards, no instruments.
Based on his estimate of $3000, would adding $2000 for misc repair plus the initial $1400 for purchase, for a total of $6400, would that be a good purchase? Is it a good value for $1400 as described? Do you need more information to form an opinion? From what I have seen the prices go from $3000 to $30000.
Is this a great find or should I walk away?

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 20-Sep-02 AT 08:27 AM (EST)]Nikki,

It's my personal opinion that it's not too bad of a deal. I just paid $500 for an original running 48 F3 that has not been on the road in 20 years. It will need about the same amount of body work and I might get it all done for $3,000 if I do most of it myself. It does not have the correct bed, no rear fenders, and both front fenders are marginal. I think for the difference of $900, the 302 (assuming it runs good and does not need an overhaul) and power disc brakes are worth it. The running boards will be relatively expensive (figure on at least $500 here), and another $400 or so for a decent radiator (unless you can find a used one out of something else that will fit).
I think more importantly the question is, does this truck fit you? Is it something you really want to spend time and money on? If so, I say go for it!

 

 

That price sounds pretty good, considering what it comes with. I paid 2500 for my '50 F1 with the complete drivetrain out of a 68 mustang installed. It wasn't pretty but was reliable.

Before you make your decision go over the frame and body very carefully. Check that they didn't just cut out parts of crossmembers to make room for the transmission, and that the engine mounts were done properly so as not to butcher the front end of the frame rails. The people that did mine were not exactly professionals, so I've got some frame cleanup to do before installing my Mustang II suspension. Good luck with your decision.

-Ron

 

Thank you for your replies, the information you offered is appreciated.

Nikki