The 1970 Ford F-250 Sport Custom Camper Special represents a high-water mark for the “bumpside” generation of Ford trucks, offering a blend of heavy-duty utility and enhanced trim. Originally purchased by a WWII Navy Veteran for trans-continental travel, this pickup has transitioned from a faithful camping companion into a well-documented collector piece. Finished in the iconic Boxwood Green, it retains the rugged charm of the 1970s while benefiting from a series of mechanical updates that ensure its 390ci V8 is ready for modern backroads.
Styleside Silhouette in Boxwood Green
The exterior is defined by the classic Styleside bed and the signature horizontal body crease that gives the bumpside its nickname. Coated in Boxwood Green, the truck features brightwork including a chrome front bumper and swing-away mirrors, which were essential for the Camper Special’s towing mission. While the body shows honest blemishes and a known rust patch on the left front fender, a replacement panel is included for future preservation. Rolling on 16-inch eight-lug steel wheels with bright covers, the truck maintains its purposeful, heavy-duty stance.
Period-Correct Cabin with Vintage Amenities
Inside, the green vinyl bench seat remains the centerpiece, currently protected by a patterned cloth cover. The interior is a functional time capsule, equipped with a Kelsey-Hayes trailer brake controller and an Eversonic CB radio, nodding to its history as a long-distance traveler. While the factory air conditioning is currently inoperative due to a compressor puncture, a spare unit is included to facilitate a return to climate-controlled comfort. A carpeted dashboard cover protects the dash top, while a push-button AM radio provides the soundtrack for vintage cruising.
Big Block V8 and Refreshed Mechanics
While this F-250 left the factory with a 360ci unit, it has since been upgraded to a 390ci V8, providing increased displacement for hauling and highway speeds. The powertrain produces a factory benchmark output and is paired with a three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission that recently received a fluid service and a new pan gasket. Recent mechanical attention has been extensive, including an overhaul of the front disc brakes, new wheel seals, and a comprehensive ignition system refresh featuring a new distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs, and wires.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 390ci V8 (Upgraded) |
| Transmission | 3-Speed Cruise-O-Matic |
| Chassis Type | Camper Special / 8-Lug Hubs |
| Braking System | Power Front Discs / Rear Drums |
| Steering | Power Assisted |
| Wheel Size | 16-inch Steel with Bright Covers |
| Odometer | 87,000 Miles (Shown) |
Utility History and Collector Appeal
The Camper Special package was Ford’s answer to the burgeoning recreational vehicle market, competing directly with the Chevrolet C20 Longhorn. This F-250 stands out in the current market due to its survivor-plus status and the inclusion of a Deluxe Marti Report, which confirms its June 1970 build date and Indiana delivery. Its history of single-family style ownership and the documentation provided in the included binder offer a level of transparency that is increasingly rare for 50-year-old workhorses, positioning it as a prime candidate for a light restoration or continued use as a weekend driver.
Documentation and Maintenance Records
Ownership of this Ford is supported by a significant paper trail, including the original factory build sheet and identification tags. The records binder contains the operator’s manual, warranty booklet, and registration documents dating back decades, providing a clear window into its maintenance history. Recent work in 2025 has addressed critical aging components, such as the power steering high-pressure line and various engine gaskets, ensuring the truck remains mechanically sound for its next steward. This blend of documented provenance and recent service makes it an accessible entry point into the world of vintage Ford trucks.
A Well-Traveled American Workhorse
This 1970 Ford F-250 Sport Custom Camper Special is a soulful representation of the golden era of American pickups. Its transition from a veteran’s travel rig to a cherished classic has been managed with care, resulting in a truck that wears its history with pride. With the upgraded 390ci V8 and the robust Camper Special hardware, it remains as capable as it is nostalgic. For the enthusiast seeking a bumpside Ford with genuine character and a documented past, this Boxwood Green F-250 offers a compelling and honest experience.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
