Full details & bid : hemmings.com
A Ranchero with a Story: This 1968 Ford Ranchero GT boasts a unique history, originally purchased as leftover dealer stock in 1969. Its first owner, residing in Oklahoma, immediately personalized the vehicle with a striking school bus yellow repaint and bold black racing stripes, a look it retains to this day. Further early modifications included the installation of a sunroof, a pop-out rear window, and kill switches for the lights. The bed was also treated with a durable LineX or similar bedliner. Over time, the original crank windows were innovatively replaced with power motors sourced from a Lincoln Continental, with the driver’s side functioning perfectly and the passenger side currently needing attention. The side mirrors were also swapped for stock Mustang units, and a modern (2000s) radio with a custom sound system was added at some point in its history. Acquired by the current seller in 2019, this Ranchero GT spent a summer in Michigan before relocating to the warmer climates of Los Angeles and Las Vegas, where it has been garage-kept and thoughtfully upgraded.
Recent Mechanical Enhancements: Under the current ownership, this Ranchero GT has undergone significant mechanical refurbishment and upgrades to enhance its performance and reliability. Most notably, a brand-new Ford 5.0 302 H.O. engine was installed in March of this year and currently has only 200 miles on it, promising years of robust performance. To ensure optimal cooling, a heavy-duty radiator was fitted in 2020, proving its effectiveness even in the desert heat. The ride and handling have been addressed with a rear suspension rebuild and rebuilt front struts and control arms, both completed in 2023. Braking performance has been significantly improved with a custom fabricated brake booster and new brake lines and brakes, all installed in 2023. The steering system was also enhanced with a custom fabricated steering assembly in 2024. Other recent maintenance includes a new windshield and new headlight switch and headlights, both fitted in 2024, and a new harmonic balancer installed in 2025, demonstrating ongoing care and attention to detail.
Engine and Performance: The heart of this 1968 Ford Ranchero GT is now a brand-new Ford 5.0 302 H.O. engine. This modern iteration of the classic 302 cubic inch V8 is known for its reliable power and smooth operation. While specific horsepower and torque figures can vary slightly depending on the exact specifications of the new engine, the 302 H.O. is a significant upgrade, offering a substantial increase in performance compared to the original engine. Paired with an automatic transmission, this powertrain provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience with ample power on tap for cruising and spirited driving. The recent installation with only 200 miles ensures that the new owner will benefit from a fresh and potent engine for years to come.
Exterior Condition: While mechanically sound and upgraded, this Ranchero GT does have some cosmetic body damage. This damage was reportedly sustained when a neighbor slowly backed a trailer into the vehicle and is described as purely cosmetic. It includes a small dent on the front left quarter panel (which the seller may address before purchase) and a larger dent on the driver’s door. Despite the dent, the driver’s door opens and closes without issue. The seller is also including a donor door with the car, although the body lines on the original door are still visible, suggesting it might be repairable. The Ranchero sits on aftermarket American Racing wheels and also comes with the original OEM wheels. All of its chrome trim is present.
Interior Features: The interior of this Ranchero GT is finished in black. While details about the originality of the interior are not extensive, the replacement of the crank windows with Lincoln Continental power window motors is a notable modification. The driver’s side power window is reported to be in perfect working order, while the passenger side is currently stuck in the up position and will require attention. A modern (2000s) radio and custom sound system have been installed, offering updated audio entertainment. The presence of a sunroof and pop-out rear window, installed by the original owner, adds to the unique character and ventilation options of this classic vehicle.
Documentation and Ownership: This 1968 Ford Ranchero GT comes with a clean title and extensive service records, providing valuable documentation of the work performed on the vehicle, particularly the recent upgrades under the current ownership. This paperwork can offer peace of mind to the prospective buyer, detailing the care and maintenance the Ranchero has received.
Summary:
- 1968 Ford Ranchero GT with a distinctive yellow and black paint scheme.
- Recently installed Ford 5.0 302 H.O. engine with only 200 miles.
- Automatic transmission.
- Numerous recent upgrades including heavy-duty radiator, rebuilt suspension, brakes, and steering.
- Features a sunroof, pop-out rear window, and modern sound system.
- Some cosmetic body damage present (dent in front left quarter panel and driver’s door).
- Comes with American Racing wheels and original OEM wheels.
- Clean title and extensive service records included.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
AI Assistance: Gemini
