The 1936 Ford Model 68 Pickup stands as a pivotal moment in the evolution of the American light-duty truck, marking the era when Ford combined passenger-car styling with robust utility. This specific example has enjoyed a remarkable 37-year period of single-family stewardship, having been acquired by the current owner’s late father nearly four decades ago. Now offered at no reserve, it retains the fundamental charm of the pre-war era, powered by a 21-stud flathead V8 that defined the performance standards of its day. With recent mechanical reconditioning by the selling dealer, this truck offers a functional gateway into the highest echelons of vintage Ford collecting.
Artillery-Style Accents and Wood-Slat Bed Utility
The visual silhouette of this Model 68 is defined by its tan finish and contrasting red pinstripes, a scheme that highlights the truck’s streamlined fenders and vertical grille. Red-painted 16-inch artillery-style wheels provide a bold stance, mounted with Firestone Deluxe Champion wide-whitewall tires that maintain the period-correct aesthetic. The cargo bed is a highlight of the build, featuring a wood-slat floor and tall wood bed-side stakes that emphasize its utilitarian roots. While the seller notes character-building imperfections such as a cracked passenger window and minor paint chips, the chrome bumpers and dual side mirrors remain intact, preserving the truck’s classic 1930s curb appeal.
Brown Vinyl Cabin and Hadees Heater Integration
Inside the cockpit, the environment is strictly functional yet nostalgic, featuring a bench seat upholstered in durable brown vinyl. The steel dashboard matches the exterior palette and houses a 100-mph speedometer along with auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, fuel level, and amperage. A unique Hadees heater is tucked beneath the dashboard, providing a glimpse into the creature comforts available during the mid-thirties. Notable details include an overhead oil pressure gauge and a scale model of the truck located in the glovebox, adding a touch of collector sentimentality to a cabin that has seen only 100 miles of use under current ownership.
Flathead V8 Torque and Hydraulic Brake Security
Mechanical authority is provided by the 221ci flathead V8, an engine celebrated for its smooth power delivery and iconic 21-stud cylinder head design. This V8 was factory rated at 85 hp/86 PS and 148 lb-ft/201 Nm of torque, providing ample pulling power through a floor-shifted three-speed manual transmission. In preparation for the 2026 sale, the selling dealer performed vital maintenance including a starter rebuild, wiring repairs, and the replacement of the brake master cylinder. This truck utilizes a six-volt electrical system and features hydraulic drum brakes at each corner, an upgrade that provides significantly more confidence during modern road use compared to original mechanical setups.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 221ci Flathead V8 (21-Stud) |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Manual |
| Chassis/Platform | Ford Model 68 |
Competitive Edge in the Pre-War Truck Sector
In the vintage truck market, the 1936 Ford Model 68 Pickup is frequently benchmarked against the Chevrolet Master pickup of the same era. Its unique selling point remains the flathead V8; while Chevrolet utilized an overhead-valve six-cylinder, Ford’s V8 provided a level of prestige and smoothness that competitors struggled to match for years. Originally part of a production run that saw Ford lead the truck market in sales, surviving Model 68s with long-term ownership history are increasingly difficult to source. The “no reserve” status of this lot makes it a highly accessible entry point for enthusiasts looking to acquire a sorted V8 truck with documented family provenance.
Maintenance Pedigree and Classic Title Status
The investment value of this Ford is anchored by its 37-year history and the proactive mechanical work completed in 2025. By replacing the brake master cylinder and repairing the fuel lines, the current stewards have addressed the most common failure points associated with vehicles from long-term storage. The Washington title carries a “Classic” brand, acknowledging its status as a historical asset while the included service records provide a transparent view into its upkeep. As pre-war trucks continue to gain traction among younger collectors seeking analog mechanical honesty, this Model 68 stands as a stable and appreciative asset for any diverse automotive portfolio.
A Reawakened Icon of American Industry
This 1936 Ford Model 68 Pickup is a masterful blend of flathead performance and pre-war style. Between its artillery-wheel stance and its documented family history, it stands ready to serve as a reliable parade vehicle or a centerpiece for an enthusiast of early V8 Ford history.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
