For Sale: 1955 Ford F100 in Anderson , California

1955 Ford Panel Truck Ambulance – Trinity County, CA – Coachbuilt Conversion – Y-Block V8 

Some vehicles are restored.

Others are remembered.

This 1955 Ford Panel Truck, originally converted into an ambulance and later used in Trinity County Search & Rescue, is one of those rare survivors that carries not just history—but personality, community, and decades of real life behind it.

Now offered on consignment at $50,000.

From Workhorse to Lifesaver – 1955 Origins

In 1955, this truck began as a standard Ford panel before being:

• Purchased new by Trinity County, California from Lou Gerard Motors in Redding, California
• Sent to Siebert Coachworks in Toledo, Ohio for professional ambulance conversion

During the conversion:

• The body was modified (“chopped”)
• Two additional doors were added, creating a rare four-door ambulance configuration

It was then returned to Northern California and immediately placed into service—first as an ambulance, and later in Search & Rescue operations, serving the community when it mattered most.

The “Gastronomic Tour” – A True American Story

Included handwritten notes document one of the most unique delivery stories you’ll come across:

In June 1955, the driver tasked with retrieving the newly converted ambulance made the cross-country trip back to Weaverville.

That seven-day journey, courtesy of Ford, became locally known as:

“The Gastronomic Tour”

Named after the driver’s well-known love of food, the trip became a rolling culinary adventure across America.

When the truck arrived—it went straight into emergency service.

Forgotten… Then Saved

After years of service:

• Stored outdoors in a county maintenance yard
• Windows broken and body showing signs of wear

Then came the turning point:

• Purchased at a county employee auction for just $500

What followed was not a flip—but a true rescue and restoration.

Three-Year Restoration & Lifetime Ownership

The current owners—now in their 80s—brought the truck home and spent three years restoring it.

• Carefully brought back to life over time
• Custom interior upholstery
• Custom wheels
• Power assist steering added

This has been a long-term, enthusiast-owned vehicle, not something recently turned for profit.

The Show Circuit Years – More Than a Vehicle

For years, this truck wasn’t just displayed—it was experienced.

The owners became well-known at car shows for:

• Dressing as a doctor and nurse
• Turning the ambulance into a fully interactive display
• Creating lasting memories with families, kids, and fellow enthusiasts

This truck didn’t just sit—it connected people.

Drivetrain & Mechanical

• Ford Y-block V8 (likely 292ci)
• 3-speed manual transmission
• Power steering
• Shut-off switch installed

The engine bay presents well and reflects a usable, maintained classic.

Condition

This is a restored, driver-quality vintage ambulance with authentic character throughout.

Needs:

• Fuel gauge not working
• Sending unit in tank needed

Consignment & Representation

This vehicle is being offered on consignment through Platt Motors, a highly respected and transparent classic car dealership with a family legacy dating back to 1931.

Platt Motors has built a reputation as a true pioneer in the automobile industry—specializing in honest, straightforward transactions and representing unique, story-driven vehicles just like this one.

Why This One Stands Apart

You can buy a classic truck.

You can buy an old ambulance.

But it’s incredibly rare to find one with:

• Documented municipal ambulance & Search & Rescue history
• Lou Gerard Motors original sale provenance
• Coachbuilt Siebert conversion
• Period story like the “Gastronomic Tour”
• Decades of continuous ownership
• A vehicle that lived a second life as a car show centerpiece

Final Thought

This isn’t just a 1955 Ford.

It’s a lifesaver, a storyteller, and a rolling piece of Americana—ready for its next chapter.

See our full inventory at plattmotors.com