A Guide to Selecting a Project Truck - Continued

Fords of the late 50's and 60's are not very popular today due to their styling. Still, they are very good trucks, strong and dependable, with excellent mechanics. Many have survived due to their toughness.

Single beam axles were used until the Twin I beam came into service in middle sixties. The Twin I beam trucks are much more preferred due to the improved ride and handling. From a collectors standpoint, these trucks are starting to catch on. Parts are fair, you can still get most through local parts houses or the dealer.

The Ford Unibody experiment in the early 60's, was unique, but these slab sided Fords were so unconventional that they may never be popular as a collector vehicle.

The 1967-72 F-100's are just now starting to come on strong as collectable trucks. These trucks are well built, tough and ride very well. Equipped with the Twin-I-Beam front axle, these trucks are very comfortable to drive. The toughness of these year trucks make them excellent daily drivers.

One weakness of these trucks is the exhaust systems and steering sectors. The large FE block 360 and 390 are notorious for exhaust manifold leakage.

Steering sector problem still plagued Ford into these trucks. Good example high mileage truck should not be frown on. These truck are tough!

From here on 73's-80's, there is not much interest from a collectors stand point. These are fine work trucks and at this point are generally uncollectible at this time. But, don't pass on a good example, these truck will rise in value as good examples become scarce.

DODGE & OTHER ORPHANS

There are lots of very good trucks that for one reason or another are not as popular as others. Dodge is one of these type of trucks. While Dodge trucks are unique and have features others do not, they tend to lag the field in popularity. Dodge, as well as other Orphan trucks, are a challenge to restore. This is true of any other truck out of production. Don't count these trucks out because of their popularity. But, you should know what your getting into when choosing one. The restoration job will be more difficult, cost more and leave your investment in doubt.

These trucks present more of a challenge and provide a uniquely different finished product. Almost anyone can restore a vehicle with parts that are easily available from dozens of suppliers. All it takes is money. The Orphans will take ingenuity, detective work and lots of parts hunting. But, the end result is a tremendous joy of accomplishment.

Studebaker, Nash, Plymouth, International, Mack and Diamond T make up the bulk of the Orphans list. There is still a considerable number of these type trucks out there. All are well built and will make a fine project trucks, but they are not recommend for the first time restorer.  One of these trucks can make a first time restorer, a last time restorer. Deep pockets and a lot of drive is needed to complete one of these baby's. We salute those that can and have taken up the challenge of restoring an Orphan.

NOW, GET OUT THERE!

We hope this article has provided some insight in to buying a project truck. Always remember to do your homework before you buy. It helps to look at a vehicle with a friend or relative. Taking along someone to help you inspect a vehicle and discuss the condition, as well as the price, is sound advice.  Don't be too quick and don't fall in love. Most important, know when to walk away. While a truck maybe worth the asking price, it may not be for you.  Good Luck and we hope to see your pick in the Classic Truck Shop Classifieds. CTS

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