Lot 26
1949 Ford F1 1/2-Ton Pickup
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Addendum: Please note: This truck is sold on a Texas bonded title.

This lot is available for online bidding at Proxibid.com, LiveAuctioneers.com and Invaluable.com

239 cid L-head V-8 engine, 100 HP, Stromberg single-barrel carburetor, three-speed manual transmission, solid front axle with transverse leaf spring, semi-floating Hypoid rear axle with transverse leaf spring, four-wheel hydraulic internal expanding brakes; wheelbase: 114"


One of Henry Ford’s goals in establishing Ford Motor Company was not only to put the world on wheels in his automobiles, but also to create vehicles that could be used in commercial and agricultural purposes. Almost from the start, aftermarket concerns were converting not only Fords, but almost any motor vehicle into serving the world’s needs. From delivering goods to market to bringing products to the customer, Ford vehicles earn a solid reputation in the early days of motoring. Origins of the word “truck” can be traced at least to the early 1600s when the British put sturdy wheels on carts or other heavy items making them easier to move. Answering a need, in 1905 Ford produced its first vehicle aimed solely to commercial customers with the Model C Delivery Top. With the arrival of the Model T in 1908, Ford continued producing light-duty commercial vehicles, and what Ford did not produce, numerous aftermarket suppliers stepped up and provided everything from stake beds to dump-beds, oil tanks to tow trucks, funeral coaches to fire trucks and everything in between. Eventually, Ford did create the factory-built Model TT heavy-duty vehicles and later when the Model A Ford came out, the AA filled the bill for many applications. With the introduction of V-8 power in the 1930s, Ford trucks were highly desired for all areas of utilization. Rugged chassis with solid construction and dependable performance put Ford at the top of the list for truck producers in America. After World War II, the need for modern commercial vehicles was paramount and Ford responded to those needs when, on June 18, 1948, the totally new “F-Series” was born. With 139 cataloged models ranging from the 3-tonner “F8 Big Job” model down to the popular and hot-selling F1 ½-ton pickups, Ford continued to build its leadership in the production of commercial vehicles.

Completely new, the biggest innovation since 1928, Ford’s new F-Series were workhorses; promoted as being “Bonus-Built”, these Fords lived up their advertising claims. Featuring smart new modern styling, the focal point for these trucks was the “Million-Dollar” cab which incorporated all-steel floors, “living room comfort” with coach-like seats, picture window visibility and level action cab suspension, which found the main body affixed to the chassis with rubber mounting pads to absorb vibrations and make the ride more comfortable and the handling a bit easier.

This fine example we are proud to offer has been restored to a condition that is at or above factory standards in every regard. Finished in a striking Blue, this ½-ton looks like it is ready for the road or the show field. It is as pure stock as one could hope for and, best of all, it is powered by the dependable and extra-cost “Rouge 239” V-8 engine. Optional stainless-steel grille protectors provide a fresh smart front end appearance with the original all-steel wheels having been finished in a contrasting fire engine red and adorned with original style hubcaps plus trim rings and ride on a fresh set of wide whitewall tires. Custom wooden rails are fitted to the sides of the 6 ½-foot pickup bed, and the tailgate in emblazoned with the large “Ford” script logo. The seat has been reupholstered in original style dark brown Naugahyde, (very rare indeed since the Nauga has been extinct for nearly 1000 years), with the individual coil spring pads that ensure comfort for both the driver and the passenger. Easy-to-read instruments and the “husky” hardware for the door and window controls are also included. Also fitted to this beautiful pickup are chromed front and rear bumpers, and for safety both driver and passenger outside rearview mirrors. The fit and finish of this truck is tight and secure while under the hood, the engine, which does show just a bit of patina, is tuned and ready for an easy start and capable of cruising at freeway speeds all day. When inspected, the odometer showed just over 55 miles, which are believed to be from when this top-shelf restoration was completed. Perfect for the gentleman rancher and easy enough for anyone to operate, this Ford F1 Pickup will be a pleasure for its new owner.