Classic F-100 is the perfect candidate for blending the old with the new.
Solid Reason
Situated somewhere between survivor and full restoration, restomod is a best of both worlds option. With some of the hard work already done, this smooth 1966 F-100 is the perfect candidate for blending the old with the new. Solid and driveable, there is also no reason not to just enjoy this Springtime Yellow and Wimbledon White classic as-is.
Photos courtesy of Hemmings.
Effective Increase
According to Motor Trend, the restomod approach dates back to the 1980s. The movement was first developed in the muscle car world by gearheads who were less interested in car shows or drag racing, but still wanted a classic car that performed. The now-established trend is also a cost-effective way to upgrade, and subsequently, increase the value of less desirable models.
Contemporary Candidate
At the heart of any resto-mod is the engine. This former Georgia truck rolled out of the factory with a 352 FE motor, according to the 'Y' code in its VIN. Now motivated by a late model 302 small block, the well-supported mill is an ideal candidate for numerous contemporary upgrades, the least of which could include electronic fuel injection.
Dual Side
A curious note, mid-1960s F-100s built for the Mexican market, were the only Ford trucks offered with a V8 small block option—the 289 Windsor. While not uncommon for vintage F-100s, the accumulated oil seepage indicates that an engine refresh is due. On the plus side, a full dual exhaust was installed at some point and is still in great shape.
Easier Drive
Fourth generation F-Series were built from 1961 to 1966. A substantial revision was made in 1965, with the introduction of the Twin-I-Beam independent front suspension—a design that remained in place for more than fifty years after its development. Adding to the stable frontend, the current owner added a power steering unit, which “makes the truck a lot easier to drive.”
Great Keepers
The owner describes the four-wheel drum brakes as “very good,” but they are completely outclassed by today's systems. Fortunately, numerous aftermarket and custom shops cater to restomodders, and all-around disc brakes are just a click away. On the other hand, the upgraded American Racing Torq Thrust Ds wheels and Cooper Cobra Radial G/Ts are in great shape and total keepers.
Smooth Shift
While the Armor All wipes and forgotten wallet are probably not part of the sale, the late model column and aftermarket steering wheel are a big plus. Tied to the newly-installed power steering unit, the whole assembly takes 'Armstrong steering' out of the driving equation. Making the cruise even more smooth is a C-4 three-speed automatic linked to the column shift.
Fine Machine
For the interested restomodder, there are lots left to do on this 1966 F-100. The owner notes that the speedometer reads 20 mph fast and the odometer does not work, while “other instruments need to be connected.” However, the Pioneer stereo and door-mounted speakers “plays fine.' Enjoy as-is or build up as a cool street machine? For more options, here is the Hemmings listing.
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