Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
This 1953 Ford F-100 pickup represents a masterful blend of classic American truck styling and modern Chevrolet performance. Acquired by the seller in 2016, this F-100 underwent a comprehensive custom build that culminated in the installation of a potent 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine sourced from a 2004 Chevrolet Suburban, paired with a smooth-shifting 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission. The chassis was significantly upgraded with an independent front suspension, tubular control arms, rack-and-pinion steering, and a rear four-link suspension system with adjustable coilovers, ensuring a comfortable and controlled ride. Braking is handled by four-wheel disc brakes for enhanced stopping power. The truck’s body, refinished in a clean white, features subtle custom touches like tinted glass, a shaved front bumper, projector-style headlamps, inside-mounted tailgate latches, and a stylish wood bed floor with a flush-mounted fuel-filler door. Inside, the bench seat is trimmed in rich brown leather, complemented by a Lokar shifter, a Vintage Air climate-control system, shoulder belts, a tilting steering column, and modern Dolphin gauges. Having covered a reported 8,000 miles since its 2018 completion, this extensively modified F-100 is now offered with build photos, showcasing its transformation.
Modern Vortec V8 Power: The heart of this custom 1953 Ford F-100 is a robust 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine, sourced from a 2004 Chevrolet Suburban and installed during the 2018 build. This modern aluminum block engine provides a significant upgrade in power and reliability compared to the original inline-six. It features an aftermarket air intake assembly and coated exhaust headers, enhancing both performance and sound. Cooling is efficiently managed by an aluminum radiator paired with an electric cooling fan. The truck operates on a modern 12-volt electrical system. This Vortec V8 delivers ample power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving.
Upgraded Chassis and Suspension: The chassis of this F-100 has been extensively modified to provide modern handling and ride comfort. An aftermarket independent front suspension system with tubular front control arms and power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering offers precise and responsive handling. The rear suspension has been upgraded to a four-link setup with Ridetech adjustable coilovers, allowing for fine-tuning of the ride and damping. This combination of modern suspension components provides a significantly improved driving experience compared to the original truck’s solid axles.
Enhanced Braking and Wheels: To match the upgraded power and handling, this F-100 is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, providing confident and reliable stopping power. The truck rides on stylish 18-inch front and 20-inch rear American Racing wheels, wrapped in Yokohama tires. This staggered wheel setup not only enhances the truck’s stance but also contributes to improved handling and traction.
Custom and Comfortable Interior: The cab of this 1953 F-100 features a bench seat beautifully trimmed in brown leather, offering a touch of classic luxury. A tan cloth headliner and kick panels, along with tan carpeting, create a warm and inviting interior. A Vintage Air climate control unit, installed below the dash, provides modern comfort in all weather conditions. A Lokar shifter adds a custom touch to the transmission controls. For safety, shoulder belts have been installed. A tilting steering column allows the driver to find a comfortable driving position. Dolphin gauges, including a 140-mph speedometer and readouts for voltage, oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel level, provide modern and accurate instrumentation.
Custom Exterior Styling: The exterior of this F-100 has been refinished in a clean white, complemented by a gray grille and rear bumper. The front bumper has been removed and replaced with a smoothed valance, giving the truck a cleaner, more streamlined look. Other custom touches include tinted glass, projector-style headlamps for improved visibility, and blue-dot tail lamps. The dual exhaust system exits through rectangular side outlets below each running board. The bed features a stylish wood floor with painted runners, along with a flush-mounted fuel filler door and inside-mounted tailgate latches, further enhancing the truck’s custom appearance.
Drivetrain and Noted Imperfections: Power from the Vortec V8 is routed to the rear wheels through a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission and a durable Currie 9-inch rear axle. While the build is extensive, the seller notes a few imperfections, including a driver’s door latch that slips, a loose sun visor, leaky side windows, and a refrigerant leak in the air conditioning system. Additionally, there is a reported short in the instrument cluster wiring, an oil pan gasket leak, and an intermittent exhaust rattle.
Summary:
- 1953 Ford F-100 Restomod
- Chevrolet 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine
- 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission
- Independent front suspension with tubular control arms
- Rear four-link suspension with adjustable coilovers
- Four-wheel disc brakes
- 18″ front and 20″ rear American Racing wheels
- Brown leather bench seat
- Vintage Air climate control
- Dolphin gauges
- White exterior with custom touches
- Wood bed floor with flush fuel filler
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.
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