1949 Ford F-1 Pickup with a 302 Windsor V8 – Tastefully restored ‘50’s cool

VIN No: 97HC223236
Engine No: C80E-6015-A

Excellent example of the rare early F1 Step Side pick-up, launched in 1948 Ford revolutionised the pick-up market forever with its first purpose built flat bed truck with “million dollar cab” (named for the amount Ford had spent on the design & development of the new truck).

Registered in the UK since 2019, the VIN code correctly de-codes as a 1949 F1 truck, with accompanying paperwork from the DVLA confirming registration. The interesting file shows restoration works taking place in Washington in 1998-1999 with invoices on file for circa $15,000 or $27,500 in todays money – and the high quality of the restoration work really shows.

Bodywork is straight and solid, with only a few minor age related marks, the flip down tailgate & flatbed are in excellent condition, including the wooden boards and steel runners, but the real surprise is the incredible condition underneath – it’s just superb all round!

Back to tasteful modifications…..the traditional bench has been replaced with comfortable seats that are much easier to live with, cup holders, arm rests & a period look modern stereo have also been fitted. The dash and instruments, as with the rest of the truck, have been tastefully modified and finished to a great standard with all dials working as they should, including oil pressure & temperature.

Now fitted with a 302 Windsor V8 and a few sensible modifications it starts on the button & runs beautifully, not to mention makes a tremendous noise. Following a period out of use we’ve undertaken mechanical recommissioning, serviced the drum brakes and she’s now ready for the road & the shows!