For Sale: 1972 Ford F100 in Newfield, New Jersey

A genuine short-bed F-100 is already a desirable piece of Ford truck history, but this 1972 Ranger XLT takes the appeal considerably further with a professional 347 stroker V8, Tremec five-speed, and an extensive restoration. Built on the factory 115-inch wheelbase and wearing Ford's unmistakable Bumpside styling, this rear-wheel-drive pickup combines the character of a classic truck with the performance and road manners of a modernized street machine. It is also from the final model year of the fifth-generation F-Series, a detail that adds to its enthusiast appeal.

Under the hood is a 347 cubic-inch stroker V8 built by Gunther's Machine in Maryland and rated at 425 horsepower. Aftermarket performance cylinder heads, a single four-barrel carburetor, headers, and a serpentine belt system are among the components that make this much more than a stock small-block. A custom SpinTech dual exhaust gives the truck a muscular voice, while the beautifully detailed engine compartment makes the build equally enjoyable to examine at a show.

A Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission puts that power in the driver's hands. Fitted with a hydraulic clutch and floor-mounted shifter, the transmission delivers precise gear changes and the benefit of overdrive for longer trips. Together, the stroker engine and modern manual gearbox give this F-100 a driving personality very different from the automatic-equipped work trucks so often seen from this era.

The exterior has been refinished in Wind Blue and Wimbledon White using a glossy basecoat/clearcoat finish. Although it is a color change from the truck's original factory combination, the two-tone treatment suits the broad hood, prominent body-side character line, and clean proportions of Ford's 1967-1972 Bumpside pickups exceptionally well. Factory Ranger XLT equipment adds desirable trim and distinction, while the short wheelbase gives the truck the compact, balanced profile collectors favor.

Its stance has been lowered approximately two inches and finished with 17-inch Cragar Street Pro wheels wearing spinner-style center caps. Staggered tires measure 225/55ZR17 in front and 275/55R17 in the rear, providing a wider footprint behind the cab and a purposeful street-truck appearance. The painted pickup bed is protected by a Holley rubber bed mat, and the attention given to its finish makes it as presentable as the rest of the body.

The suspension and chassis received thoughtful attention as part of the build. Ford's Twin I-Beam independent front suspension remains in place, with a rear leaf-spring arrangement and C-notched frame to accommodate the lowered ride height. Power steering makes low-speed maneuvering comfortable, while power front disc brakes and power rear drum brakes provide braking assistance. The undercarriage has been detailed along with the engine compartment and shows no apparent evidence of previous rust repairs or damage.

Inside, a Black vinyl bench seat preserves the straightforward character of an early-1970s Ford pickup. A woodgrain steering wheel adds a custom touch, and an AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input brings useful modern entertainment. This was originally a factory air-conditioned truck and now features a modern R134a compressor and Vintage Air climate controller, combining desirable original equipment with more contemporary components.

The truck is accompanied by a Marti Report detailing its factory configuration and production history, an especially welcome addition on a genuine Ranger XLT short bed. The odometer displays 46,944 miles, although total mileage is unknown. Rather than claiming untouched originality, this F-100 is presented as a restored resto-mod whose considerable mechanical and cosmetic upgrades are central to its appeal.

With its factory short-bed proportions, beautifully finished two-tone body, professionally built 425-horsepower 347, Tremec TKX five-speed, updated climate equipment, and detailed chassis, this 1972 Ford F-100 Ranger XLT offers a particularly compelling blend of Ford heritage and modern performance. It has the look for a show field and the equipment to make the drive there every bit as enjoyable.

South Jersey Classics is a 10,000-square-foot classic and specialty collector car dealership featuring an inventory of over 50 vehicles. This vehicle is available for viewing at our showroom in Newfield, New Jersey, conveniently located on US Route 40, just off NJ Route 55 at Exit 39B toward Elmer. We are approximately 40 minutes from Philadelphia, 40 minutes from the Jersey Shore, and 30 minutes from the Delaware Memorial Bridge, with easy access from all major Southern New Jersey highways. We welcome you to visit our showroom and experience this vehicle in person. For additional information or to schedule a visit, contact us at (856) 521-0832 or visit www.SJClassics.com. Be sure to view our complete collection of high-definition photos directly on our website for the best viewing experience!