FORD 1950

The Ford F-Series revolutionised the pick-up market in the United States, and the F1 being offered for sale here is a nicely restored, extremely original example of this best-selling model.

Built between 1948 and 1952, the first-generation F-Series was offered in a variety of models. The most common was the F1 – a half-ton pick-up – and the range went all the way up to the F7 and F8, which were built as heavy-duty variants such as fire trucks.

This particular Ford F1 was built in 1950 and features a column-mounted shift for the three-speed gearbox – it was during that year that Ford switched from a floor-mounted gearlever. It also has the small rear window that would be replaced with a larger version as part of a facelift for 1951, as well as the 100hp, 239ci (3.9-litre) V8 engine. The other option for this generation of F1 was a 95hp, 226ci (3.7-litre) six-cylinder unit.

It’s thought that this F1 stayed in the United States from new all the way up until 2002, when it was exported to the UK via Balsinger Motors in Texas. It had been acquired by a London-based company that sold machinery for mining, construction and civil engineering, but it was sold in 2008 to an enthusiast who has owned it ever since.

The bodywork and rear deck were stripped and repaired, with the panels remaining all original, and the suspension and braking system were rebuilt. The flathead V8 engine had already been rebuilt at an earlier date.

The wiring was renewed and a 12-volt conversion carried out, while the correct wheels were sourced – and painted in body colour, as per the original finish – and new tyres fitted. A photographic record of the work, as well as the associated invoices, is included in the Ford’s history file. There is also a copy of the Shop Manual for the 1949-50-51 Ford F-Series.

With its ‘step-side’ bodywork, painted-metal interior with simple bench seat, and torquey V8 engine, this Ford F1 is perfectly evocative of rural America in those early post-war years, and it’s easy to see why this era of pick-up truck has acquired such a strong following in recent years.