Improving on the design of Ford's F-1 pickup, the F100, introduced in 1953, featured a larger, more comfortable cab than its predecessor, with unmistakable styling that was kept almost unchanged for the next few years, making the pickup a sales success when new. One could rightfully claim the 1953-'56 F100s to be cultural icons of the 1950s; they are very sought-after by collectors today.
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More than half a Century has passed. Since pickup trucks were intended to be used as workhorses on fields and farms or to serve as heavy-duty service vehicles for small businesses, many have gone on to the big boneyard in the sky after leading a hard life. A lack of factory corrosion protection decimated most of the remaining examples.
Even here in sunny Southern California, you'll have a hard time finding a shortbed stepside pickup that has been treated like a favorite toy, never needing any rust repair.
Here's one!
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With just 124,842 examples manufactured in 1955, a number that pales compared to today's annual million-plus Ford truck output, this particular F100 Custom Cab, VIN *F10V5P16645*, has led a sheltered life. Built in Twin City and sold new in California, it is still licensed to the vintage blue-and-gold license plates with tags valid 'til September 2010.
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Much to the delight of the enthusiast who likes to use his classic vehicle daily, this F100 recently received a fresh drivetrain. The old Y-block V8 and 3-speed manual tranny were replaced with a remanufactured "Mr. Goodwrench" Chevrolet 350 cubic inch engine mated to a GM TH350 automatic transmission, making worries about durability and parts issues obsolete.
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Very clean engine bay proudly displays the 350, which features several chromed accessories, a set of block-hugging headers, a polished aluminum intake manifold topped by a Holley carburetor with electric choke, and electronic ignition. A thermostatically controlled electric fan, mounted to the freshly refurbished radiator, keeps things cool. With an estimated 250 horsepower on tap--as opposed to the original's 170--it runs as good as it looks, plus it saves quite a bit of weight over the stock front axle.
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Certainly one of the highlights of this cool survivor must be the amazing state of its coachwork. Always a Southern California truck, this F-100 lasted for 55 years without any kind of annoying--and very expensive to repair--body rust. Even the vulnerable door bottoms and cab corners are free of corrosion. Apparently, this truck has never been involved in any kind of accident, either, as evidenced by excellent door, hood, and panel gaps.
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Light blue paint is old, very old and slightly different from the factory Aquatone Blue, which is still evident inside the glovebox and confirmed by the data plate attached to it. We opted not to repaint the truck, first of all, because there's nothing to hide, secondly because the new owner might have his own ideas of how it should look. We personally don't mind driving an old truck "as is," since a richly patinated exterior bears mute witness to a long and productive life . . .
Let's check out the fabulous Ford's interior now!
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Another highlight, the cockpit presents itself very clean and tidy. Quite a bit of money has recently been spent to rejuvenate the cabin. This being a Custom Cab, better upholstery--along with extra chrome trim--was part of the package, and the new black interior reflects that. Just take a look at the hand-stitched, pleated leatherette door panels!
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Uncut, original dashboard features working gauges, lights, and switches. Even the windshield wipers and heater blower--the latter a bit noisy--work as they should. Note the huge, well-preserved, factory original steering wheel with stock horn button. Yes, the horn works, too, as do the accessory gauges mounted below the dash.
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A flash of chrome on the glovebox door is a bit of a luxury addition, as is the modern under-dash audio unit with CD-player.
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Perfection: perforated black vinyl headliner and sunvisors.
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Bench seat has been completely rebuilt, making it as comfortable as in '55 again. There are no rips, tears, or stains anywhere.
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Ready for a test drive?
Sure, but let's check out the truck's bed and undercarriage
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While most fifty-five-year-old pickups come with fairly battered cargo boxes, the bed on this one has remained in excellent condition. Even the tailgate fits and operates perfectly. Just the wood has seen better days; hence, the floor is covered by a single, woodgrained panel, which looks surprisingly good.
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Only in California! The undercarriage has never needed rust repair. Apart from a very slight layer of dust and surface rust on the unpainted surfaces here and there, frame and floors appear factory fresh. The cost of replacing metal panels being what it is these days, finding a dry, rust free example of Ford's finest ranks as a true blessing. |
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Details, details: note the dual Flowmaster mufflers and the absence of annoying fluid leaks.
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Monday, July 12, was another beautiful day here in San Buenaventura. Blue skies provided the perfect backdrop for a ride in our pickup.
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The old truck starts instantly, idles smoothly, and sounds just right--there is a definite V-8 rumble, but it's on the mellow side. The TH350 auto trans, guided by a floor-mounted Hurst shifter, works seamlessly quiet. The truck has never been lowered, its front end is still 100% original, with drum brakes and power steering "by Armstrong," with the attendant vintage ride. We like it that way; however, if you're leaning toward a Street Rod, a myriad "modern" front end set-ups are just a phone call away.
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Cruising the old F100 transports you back to a simpler, more relaxed era. Wherever you stop, people come up to chat about the good ol' days. Everyone seems to fondly remember a pick-em-up truck like this '55 in the family--and rightfully so. There's no vehicle more practical for all your light hauling needs--be it a Christmas tree, an old refrigerator, or a surfboard--than a cool old pickup truck. We love it!
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Everything works great on this vintage Custom Cab. It does not overheat or display other ill manners. Thousands of Dollars have just been spent sorting engine, transmission, exhaust, and upholstery. We return home with a big smile on our faces.
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Keep on truckin'!
You are most welcome to inspect this fine automobile at our location in Ventura, by appointment, or have someone inspect it for you.
Please, direct all inquiries to bill@californiaclassix.com or call us at 805-653-5551.
Take me to Californiaclassix' Home or the Showroom.