This 1952 Ford F1 is a nice example of the first-generation F-series (1948-1952). With its bright yellow paint and shapely curves, this one will draw looks wherever it goes. It also runs great, has a few nice upgrades, and is quite affordable in today’s classic truck market. And with a 302ci V8, Mustang II front end, power steering, and power front disc brakes it no longer drives like a 1950’s truck.
This Ford has a solid steel body and frame. It has been painted a brilliant yellow that really stands out on the truck’s generous proportions. The front grille has been swapped for a chrome 5-bullet design that gives a lot more pop than the industrial looking stock piece. The hood retains the correct F1 side trim and front emblem. The wood bed is a nice touch as well. The red steel wheels have chrome trim rings and center caps and wear brand new tires all around (225/70R14 front, 275/60R15 rear).
The original engine was retired in favor of a contemporary 302ci V8. This one is a cruiser with a factory 2-barrel intake and an upgraded electronic distributor. The dual exhaust uses headers and glass packs that give a very cool sound. Cooling is provided by an aluminum radiator along with a new water pump. The transmission is a C4 automatic while the rear end is the original style Dana 44.
There are several other mechanical upgrades. The original solid front axle was jettisoned in favor of an independent Mustang II style setup with tubular control arms. Steering was also upgraded and has a new power rack and pinion setup. The brakes were converted to a more conventional firewall mounted master cylinder with a power booster along with front discs.
The brown / tan interior looks very sharp against the yellow exterior. The carpet, door panels, rear panel, and headliner were replaced in 2024 and blend well with the updated bucket seats. The instrument cluster now uses a dual pod setup from Classic Instruments. A voltmeter, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pressure gauge reside on the left while the speedometer and tachometer are on the right. A tilt steering column is also present along with a modern digital radio with Bluetooth. The lights, turn signals, horn, and wipers all work properly. Note this 1952 does not have a heater/defroster, parking brake, or seat belts.
This F1 stands out from the sea of old trucks out there. Along with all the nice mechanicals, it is a real eye-catcher and one of the more attractive F1 pickups we have seen. And while six-figure classic trucks are not that uncommon these days, this one gets it all done for 1/3 that price.