Vehicle Description
To many collectors, the dual-purpose, car-based utility vehicle was
born with the Ford Ranchero of the late 1950s. Its origins,
however, date back to the early 1930s, when Ford of Australia began
development of the Utility or "Ute". At the time, Australian banks
were reportedly more inclined to grant loans to ranchers for the
purchase of farm trucks rather than passenger cars. In addition,
according to legend, a rancher's wife, who had had quite enough of
riding in the farm truck, petitioned Ford of Australia to build a
vehicle that could haul feed and small livestock yet carry the
family in car-like comfort to church on Sunday. The letter moved
along through several departments, and finally reached the Design
Department, staffed by one person - a young Lewis Bandt. Bandt
quickly sketched a vehicle based on Ford's current passenger-car
platform that combined a roadster-type passenger compartment with a
cargo bed at the rear, with additional internal bracing for
strength. The resulting Utility, or "Ute," was an immediate
success, and while the roadster only carried on through 1938, the
coupe variant continued until 1958, when it was replaced by the
American-designed Ranchero. The Ute's utility, however, came at a
price, and very few early examples of this innovative vehicle
remain today. In fact, the 1932 Model B-304 "Ute" offered here is
likely the only intact example in existence. One of just
twenty-eight originally built, it was imported to the United States
from an Australian banana plantation in 1968. The truck was the
recipient of full nut and bolt restoration while part of the
well-known Grant Oakes collection in Ohio. During restoration, the
"Ute" was converted to left-hand drive while the cargo bed received
very limited repairs to three of its corners. Unique original
features including a 1930-1931 Model A windshield and a Model
T-style tailgate were preserved and restored. The initial
restoration was completely stock, and under the care of its most
recent owner, the truck has undergone a transformation, with the
emphasis on modern driving, all while keeping the vintage feel. The
original Model B engine was replaced by a new H&H Flatheads
Model B "Touring Spec" engine, equipped with period speed parts
including a high compression Winfield cylinder head, Ansen intake
and a Stromberg "97" carburetor. The electrical system was
converted to 12 volts, with an alternator (disguised as a
generator), electronic ignition, and electric power steering. The
braking system has been upgraded to hydraulic and a two-speed
Mitchell Model 1000 Gear-Splitter 26% overdrive unit has been
installed to keep up with modern traffic. Included receipts
document the work and total over $50,000 spent since 2018. Even
with the modifications in place, the engine bay remains tidy and
well detailed and retains most of its authentic, period-correct
appearance. The body is beautifully finished in black, bright red
wheels provide a highlight and red coachlines tie the color scheme
together nicely. Paint quality is excellent, and the body is crisp
and straight, having been exceptionally well maintained since the
restoration was completed. The body features dual sidemount spares,
and finely restored brightwork. A set of Blackwall radial tires add
a purposeful look as well as improving the ride and handling. The
cabin is trimmed in grey to a very correct standard. The seat
upholstery remains in attractive condition, showing little in the
way of wear or use. Door panels and the elegantly simple dash are
correct and again, in fine order, and a modern fuel gauge has been
added below the dash. A high-quality top in khaki looks great
against the paint scheme and the bed features gorgeous wood slats
separated by black-painted steel runners along with wooden bedrail
caps. Beautifully restored, rare as can be, endowed with period
speed parts and modern upgrades, this 1932 Model B "Ute" delivers a
significantly enhanced driving experience while retaining its
irreplaceable charm and original essence. Offers welcome and trades
considered For additional details please view this listing directly
on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7657-1932-ford-model-b-ute/
