1949 Ford F-3 3/4 Ton Pickup

Description

Showroom rivals to the GM Advanced Design trucks, Ford’s first all-new post-war work vehicle not only saw the start of future sales success, but also the start of an easily identifiable nameplate that has evolved into the F-series trucks that Ford uses today.

Unveiled in January 1948, Ford's new postwar pickup line — preceding the all-new 1949 Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln car lines — started off with the F-1 half ton and numbered all the way up to the big rig F-8. Ford reportedly spent $1 million to give buyers more truck for their money than ever before. Increasing driver and passenger friendliness was a main goal; the wider, taller “Million Dollar Cab” offered a “living room” feel, and its improved bench seat delivered “easy chair comfort.”

From 1948-50, the F-Series trucks were available either with a flathead V8 or flathead inline six under the hood. For 1949, changes included the deletion of the red pinstripes on the silver-painted grille bars. A passenger-side taillight became standard, as did reflectors on both sides. This 1949 F-3 3/4 ton pickup, powered by Ford’s famous 239 cu-in flathead V8, has been kept as original as possible.

Highlights

• First of the famous Ford F-series trucks

• Powered by a 239 cu-in flathead V8 producing 100 hp

• Four-speed manual transmission

• Finished in eye-catching Barcelona Blue with Medium Luster Black fenders

• Rugged caramel-colored leatherette seat upholstery

• The chassis number (098RY454975) decodes as:

  • 09 – 1949 model year

  • 8R – 239 cu-in V8 with 2BC carburetor

  • Y – Three-quarter ton pick up

  • 454975 – Production sequence number

Features

• Extensive refurbishment in 2010 included:

  • Carburetor

  • Distributor

  • Four-speed manual transmission

  • Brakes

  • Suspension

  • Wiring

  • Clutch

  • Pedals

  • Driveshaft

  • Fuel system flush

• New six volt battery

• Heater

• Roll-up windows

• Seating for three

• Rubber floor coverings

• Passenger side exterior mirror

• Running boards

• Driver sun visor

• Glove box

• 17-inch wheels

• Four-wheel drum brakes with large 14 x 2-inch drums in the rear

• Telescoping shock absorbers

• 18-inch diameter steering wheel

Known Imperfections

• Minor rust at the bottom of bed rail post supports. No known body filler.

• Paint fading slightly on roof and hood

• Some scratches and chips on the paint

Included

• Six-volt Optima AGM battery encased in vintage-look battery box (not installed)

• 1948–50 Ford Truck Specifications, Features Manual

• Ford Trucks Operator’s Manual

• Spare tire

• Battery trickle charger

Ownership History

The consignor reports, “The truck is as original as possible. All work performed by one shop that specializes in Ford trucks.” It was acquired from Wisconsin in 2009.