Summary

Restored short-bed, half-ton, unibody, big-window pickup. Factory options include a 292ci V8 engine, 3-speed manual transmission with overdrive, posi-traction differential and a custom cab.

Details

In 1960, Ford offered their F-series pickup as a unibody construction, a first for any pickup. The advantage for Ford was a simpler assembly process, allowing for lower cost of production. The bed and cab were no longer separate pieces, as the bedsides were spot-welded directly to the door sills, making the cab and bed one solid piece. As innovative as it was, the public preferred the traditional separate cab and bed on the frame, and Ford ended production in 1962. This Ford F-100 pickup from 1961 was treated to a no-expense-spared, nut-and-bolt restoration to return it to its original factory specifications. Starting with a rust-free Southwest truck, the body was repainted in the factory two-tone combination of Academy Blue and Corinthian White. All chrome was replated, the trim was polished and a set of Firestone whitewall tires were installed. It’s powered by a 292ci V8 engine, backed by a 3-on-the-tree manual transmission with overdrive. The engine compartment is detailed and period-correct, down to the hose clamps and battery. The underside has been completely cleaned and detailed as well. Inside, the soft surfaces were reupholstered with a factory-correct padded dash, armrest and bench seat. It also is equipped with factory temperature controls, cigarette lighter, AM radio and a white steering wheel with a chrome horn ring.