Vehicle Description
10,859 original miles (not a misprint). One owner western truck.
Original paint, interior, and 400 cubic inch V8. Automatic, cruise
control, 4-wheel drive. Aftermarket wheels, roll bar, and exhaust,
otherwise stock. Fantastic survivor!We know people are always
skeptical of low mileage claims, but this truck's condition
provides a compelling case for it. It was purchased new by a farmer
in Idaho who took his honeymoon in it (we have photos) and then
used it sparingly for the next 40-some years. A glance in the bed
reveals that it has never been used as a work truck and the
original paint is in fantastic condition. Two-tone was an
extra-cost item on the F150, even with the upscale Ranger package,
and the combination of Light Sand over Gold Metallic works as well
today as it did in 1979. Enthusiasts today are drawn to the brawny
look, which is highlighted by square headlights introduced in 1978,
and as a result the truck looks capable and durable. Sure, there
are a few very minor touch-ups here and there, some signs of use if
you look really closely behind the wheelwells, but for a truck
about to celebrate its 45th birthday it's pretty darned impressive.
There's plenty of bright chrome and stainless trim, all of which is
in excellent condition, including the period roll bar in the bed
that gives it an adventurous look. There's also a vinyl tonneau
cover that snaps into place to keep cargo dry and secure, although
we believe the tailgate has been repainted since it doesn't have
any snaps. But any way you slice it, this truck is really
impressive.The interior is likewise entirely original and the
condition of the seat, carpets, and pedals are additional clues to
the truck's low mileage status. The textured vinyl seat is all-day
comfortable even when it's warm and the truck comes with vent
windows and a sliding rear window that help keep things cool. The
gauges cover the engine's vital functions and they're all fully
operational and just check out the crisp simulated burled walnut
appliques that haven't faded in the sun. The factory AM radio
remains in the dash, right below the levers for heat/defrost. The
two-speed transfer case is managed by the lever on the floor and
the cruise uses buttons on the steering wheel (we have not tested
the cruise control). Overhead, the original headliner is taut and
clean, the seat belts are supple, and the door panels are excellent
without so much as a divot where the driver was resting his elbow.
Finding one this clean isn't easy.This F150 carries the optional
400 cubic inch V8 with a 2-barrel carburetor, a motor designed for
low-end torque more than anything else. It's completely stock, from
the air cleaner to the exhaust manifolds, and runs like you'd
expect from a low mileage machine. Quick starts, a nice idle, and a
pleasing growl from the aftermarket dual exhaust system all make it
easy to live with. It's still wearing most of its original Ford
Blue engine enamel and aside from basic maintenance items, it's as
the factory made it. It has a recent tune up that includes plugs,
wires, points, condenser, cap and rotor, so t's ready to drive and
with both power steering and power brakes, anyone can handle it
despite its imposing size. The transmission is C6 3-speed automatic
feeding both axles which appear to be packing 3.50 gears so it's
comfortable at highway speeds. The undercarriage is unquestionably
original and hasn't been undercoated, so nothing is hidden-check
out the original floors, rocker spot welds, and cab corners, all of
which are in great shape. Yes, that's original red oxide primer!
The shocks have been replaced at some point and there's evidence of
routine service work, but for the most part it's completely stock.
Besides the custom exhaust system, the only other notable
modification are the period-correct chrome wheels wearing big
31x10.50R15 Bridgestone radials.Documentation is extensive,
including the original window sticker, owner's manual, original
purchase documents, a certified mileage statement, and a deluxe
Marti Report.We love original vehicles and this truck once again
reminds us why they're better-it's tight, smooth, easy to handle,
and doesn't have any bad habits. It's also just a really cool truck
from a period when 4x4 pickups like this were all the rage. If you
were there, you get it and if you're looking at it for the first
time today, you'll find there's a lot to like here. Give us a call
today!Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or
professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to
purchase.
