The Ford Barn

KeansClassics · 03-09-2012, 12:52 AM

I went and looked at this old 1938 Ford 3/4 Ton Pickup Truck today and am wanting to know what you guys think of it. The truck hasn't been on the road since the 1960's and from then on for about 15 years it was parked outside, then it was brought inside in the late 1970's and been stored ever since. The truck is really complete and was running when parked. The reason it was parked was because it couldn't pass the state inspection. Its been in the same family since new. The engine didn't want to turn over when we tried moving it with the crank. It has the 85 HP Flathead V8. The wood in the bed is gone. The tailgate has been cut and a lift gate was installed to pour grain from. There are dents here and there as well as the occasional rust spot. They want $1500 and are pretty firm at that. They do have a title as well. What do you think of the price? With everything being there I wouldn't think it would take much to get it back on the road. And I like the look of it, she has a rustic patina to that is very unique!

Thanks for the Replies!

[email protected] · 03-09-2012, 02:18 AM

Rebuilt a '38 Ford pickup about 6 years ago. Bought it for $1500.00. The metal we started with was nowhere near what your looking at there. For the kind of money they're talking you could afford to find a motor for a pretty good price. Look on the Estray or Craigslist or on FordBarn want ads. Then figure a new clutch and put in hydraulic brake system and some seats. The wiring will probably be needing some work. One thing you have to consider is the value of the parts. The Grille in that shape is worth about $500.00. The running boards are worth $200.00. The fenders are easily worth $500.00 for the set. The hood $500.00. The doors $200.00 apiece. Cab $500.00. And so on. Look real good at the frame. Especially above the rear Axle housings. That part of the frame and the x-members rot easily. Normally if the trucks been used pretty hard the front and rear cross members are usually cracked. The king pins will probably be loose as heck. So yeah the sheet metal has way more value than what the guys asking for it. But if the frame is in decent shape, and the frame is good and if you consider the repairs you'll be looking aren't too much than give that guy fifteen hundred bucks, load it up on the trailer and laugh all the way home.

Ken/Alabama · 03-09-2012, 02:19 AM

I like it ! Would make a great parts hauler and I would leave as it is. Just do the necessary things to make it safe and roadworthy,brakes,wiring,tires,ect..

39portlander · 03-09-2012, 06:12 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ken/Alabama

I like it ! Would make a great parts hauler and I would leave as it is. Just do the necessary things to make it safe and roadworthy,brakes,wiring,tires,ect..

I like Ken's Idea, Mech. perfect and driveable. There's triple that in labor/money to do all the body stuff. That's a great price and do not part it out, this is a survivor. Get it on the road again

Scott H · 03-09-2012, 06:21 AM

Is this an early April Fool's post?
For only $1500 I'm surprised you would even ask.
They (or you) could probably very easily get $3000 or more for it.
He who hesitates is lost. If you like it, get it.
I paid $2000 for my '36 in much worse shape than that.

And by the way, to get it on the road I would not bother with hydraulic brakes. Mechanicals done right will stop that truck just fine.

Jack M. · 03-09-2012, 07:02 AM

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What are you waiting for? Even if you parted it out it's worth more.

Shadetree · 03-09-2012, 07:05 AM

That looks like a deal! The fact that the engine turns over is a good sign. You may have some valves stuck from sitting but that is an easy fix. I have learned that drive them as they are cars and trucks get lots of attention too.

Cecil/WV · 03-09-2012, 07:12 AM

What's the rear end ratio in the first pic?? LOL, That's a real bargain. Go for it.

jimTN · 03-09-2012, 08:48 AM

That truck has a heavier frame than the 1/2 ton, in other words it does not have the passenger frame with x member. The rear end is a stump puller. The good part is that the frame under it is much heavier than the x frame and does not suffer from rust like the other. You can change the rear end out with a 60s 3/4 ton and use the same hubs, may have to change the backing plates. All in all you can end up with a very functional truck made of good metal. You can go to 53 with bolt in engine so if necessary an engine should not be a problem.

Sid the Maineiac · 03-09-2012, 09:38 AM

Buy it before he changes his mind! Great old truck!

biggeorge · 03-09-2012, 09:41 AM

well i don't see one on your list, so what are you waiting for?

Tinker · 03-09-2012, 10:10 AM

There is the 81Y Tonner that was in 38. Wheel base was 122"

Looks better then what I started with. I'm leaving mine with all the farm additions. Dents and what not. Soybeans in the ashtray still there :]. Did the engine overhaul and hydros.

Good buy in my opinion. Good luck!

Tinker · 03-09-2012, 10:14 AM

4sp has a pto option also, so you can run a little grain auger or something neat.

38 coupe · 03-09-2012, 10:15 AM

That is a 1 ton. Ford started making the 3/4 ton in 39. This truck is the longer 122" wheelbase and has a different tailgate, bed, running boards, fenders, drive shaft, and rear axle than the 1/2 tons. Parts for these can get very hard to find. Also, the available axle ratios were 4.11 and 4.86. If the truck has the 4.11 ratio it can be driven much like a 3.78 equipped car due to the larger rear tires. If the truck has the 4.86 ratio, it will cruise happily at about 45 m.p.h.

I'm not trying to discourage you, just help you make an informed decision.

donald1950 · 03-09-2012, 10:36 AM

one word: fantastic! buy it and if you do not want it sell it complete. and a 3 didget phone number from the "number please" days. a bit of fixing and drive it... don

Clem Clement · 03-09-2012, 11:35 AM

Looks perfect to me! Love the door adds.

My suttle advice is: BUY IT NOW!!!!!!!
clem

flatheadA · 03-09-2012, 11:55 AM

I passed up on a 3/4 ton truck for the same price last fall,different year but same situation.Been kicking my self in the a?? every since.
Buy it.

alanwoodieman · 03-09-2012, 03:16 PM

I have the 41 version of the 3/4 ton, but mine is a stakebed and we really have a good time driving it. My looked like crap as compared to yours. Have you bought it yet???

Panel Pete · 03-09-2012, 10:22 PM

Well, since you ask my first thought is to BUY IT!!! I paid more than that for my field find 1/2 ton '38 (see avitar <----), and it's nowhere near as nice or complete as this one is. The fact that its been garaged ( or barned ) for the past 30+ years is awesome in itself. Fix it up mechanically, put it on the road and drive the heck out of it!

joe plumber · 03-10-2012, 09:51 AM

Lichti Repair .I believe they are still in business in Geneva ,Nebr .Buy. it .

KeansClassics · 03-12-2012, 12:23 AM

This afternoon I went and took my dad to see the 1938 Ford 1 Ton Pickup Truck. I also got a little more info on it. The owner said that when the truck was put in the shed some 20 years ago the engine turned over then, but it does not now, so hopefully it will free up by soaking the cylinders with a little penatraiting oil. When I went the last time to look at it I was really going with a friend who was told about it and was interested. I went along to give advise. My friend owns a 1938 Ford 1/2 Ton and was hoping that he could take parts off of this one to use on his. Well with most all the parts not being interchangable he passed on the deal. I thought it was a really neat old truck so I had to have another look at it. Whats good about this deal is that the truck was never advertised, but just word of mouth and thats how my friend found out about it and then told me. While I was there today I took a closer look at the truck and also took some more photos. I made a deal with the owner for the pruchase of the truck, now its just getting him the money and getting it home. He wants the truck to go to a good home and to be put back on the road, and not parted out. That is what I would do, get it back on the road. I am glad he is willing to work with me to get him the money for the truck and I hope to have it payed for in a couple weeks.

Enjoy the Photos!
Thanks!

KeansClassics · 03-12-2012, 12:27 AM

Here's some more pictures!

Enjoy!

Tinker · 03-13-2012, 02:23 PM

Hope everything works out for you.

felix37 · 03-13-2012, 07:57 PM

You have that large list of cars and you are asking us if 1,500 is a good deal! ?? I would have bought it already!

Panel Pete · 03-13-2012, 11:40 PM

Congratulations! Keep us updated on the progress and post lots of pictures, looks like it'll be a great project.

41 Fords ohio · 03-13-2012, 11:57 PM

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For $1500 it would've been in my garage already. Nice truck,buy it and bring it back to the road!

41panelmark · 03-16-2012, 10:27 PM

Nice old truck. Bring it home.

Rem · 03-17-2012, 05:38 AM

100MPH speedo!?

Gumpy · 03-17-2012, 09:52 AM

around where i live a truck like that would go from 4500.-5500. I would not hestitate to purchase myself but I like the idea of parts hauler....my neighbor owns a street rod shop...he just sold a 48 pickup that he got going and sprayed w/rustoleom in his garage for 10k....you guys in the midwest are very lucky!!

Itchy-Pit · 03-17-2012, 01:28 PM

Very excited for you! Keep the posts coming! Check the brakes and get in on the road. Drive is for at least 6 months before you change anything! It's worth more untouched than "cleaned up" Just my 2 cents.

Dennis

KeansClassics · 03-23-2012, 09:02 PM

Thanks everyone, I am super exited about the truck too! I've been trying to do some research on this truck but it doesn't look like there is very much information out there. Is this truck considered the "express one ton"? If anyone has any information such as the different specs, how many were made or just the general history behind these Ford One Ton's I would love to know it!

Thanks!

38 coupe · 03-24-2012, 08:03 AM

Yes, that is the one ton express. Express is the pickup bed version.

03-09-2012, 02:18 AM	#2
[email protected] Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2010 Posts: 937	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Rebuilt a '38 Ford pickup about 6 years ago. Bought it for $1500.00. The metal we started with was nowhere near what your looking at there. For the kind of money they're talking you could afford to find a motor for a pretty good price. Look on the Estray or Craigslist or on FordBarn want ads. Then figure a new clutch and put in hydraulic brake system and some seats. The wiring will probably be needing some work. One thing you have to consider is the value of the parts. The Grille in that shape is worth about $500.00. The running boards are worth $200.00. The fenders are easily worth $500.00 for the set. The hood $500.00. The doors $200.00 apiece. Cab $500.00. And so on. Look real good at the frame. Especially above the rear Axle housings. That part of the frame and the x-members rot easily. Normally if the trucks been used pretty hard the front and rear cross members are usually cracked. The king pins will probably be loose as heck. So yeah the sheet metal has way more value than what the guys asking for it. But if the frame is in decent shape, and the frame is good and if you consider the repairs you'll be looking aren't too much than give that guy fifteen hundred bucks, load it up on the trailer and laugh all the way home. __________________ It's 110 miles to Chicago We've got half a pack of cigarettes It's dark And we're wearing sunglasses Let's go.

03-09-2012, 02:19 AM	#3
Ken/Alabama Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Alabama Posts: 3,260	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) I like it ! Would make a great parts hauler and I would leave as it is. Just do the necessary things to make it safe and roadworthy,brakes,wiring,tires,ect..

03-09-2012, 06:21 AM	#5
Scott H Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Wheaton, IL (west chicago) Posts: 558	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Is this an early April Fool's post? For only $1500 I'm surprised you would even ask. They (or you) could probably very easily get $3000 or more for it. He who hesitates is lost. If you like it, get it. I paid $2000 for my '36 in much worse shape than that. And by the way, to get it on the road I would not bother with hydraulic brakes. Mechanicals done right will stop that truck just fine. __________________ 36 1/2 ton pickup on 38 car frame with 1940 v8 24 stud

03-09-2012, 07:02 AM	#6
Jack M. Junior Member Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: South East Pa. Posts: 22	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) What are you waiting for? Even if you parted it out it's worth more.

03-09-2012, 07:05 AM	#7
Shadetree Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Cottageville, WV Posts: 1,535	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) That looks like a deal! The fact that the engine turns over is a good sign. You may have some valves stuck from sitting but that is an easy fix. I have learned that drive them as they are cars and trucks get lots of attention too. __________________ Son, you will never blow an engine up in high gear.

03-09-2012, 07:12 AM	#8
Cecil/WV Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Gerrardstown, WV Posts: 2,266	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) What's the rear end ratio in the first pic?? LOL, That's a real bargain. Go for it.

03-09-2012, 08:48 AM	#9
jimTN Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Powell, TN Posts: 2,509	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) That truck has a heavier frame than the 1/2 ton, in other words it does not have the passenger frame with x member. The rear end is a stump puller. The good part is that the frame under it is much heavier than the x frame and does not suffer from rust like the other. You can change the rear end out with a 60s 3/4 ton and use the same hubs, may have to change the backing plates. All in all you can end up with a very functional truck made of good metal. You can go to 53 with bolt in engine so if necessary an engine should not be a problem.

03-09-2012, 09:38 AM	#10
Sid the Maineiac Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Norridgewock,Maine Posts: 657	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Buy it before he changes his mind! Great old truck!

03-09-2012, 09:41 AM	#11
biggeorge Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Merrimac Mass Posts: 161	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) well i don't see one on your list, so what are you waiting for?

03-09-2012, 10:10 AM	#12
Tinker Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: MN Posts: 7,053	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) There is the 81Y Tonner that was in 38. Wheel base was 122" Looks better then what I started with. I'm leaving mine with all the farm additions. Dents and what not. Soybeans in the ashtray still there :]. Did the engine overhaul and hydros. Good buy in my opinion. Good luck!

03-09-2012, 10:14 AM	#13
Tinker Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: MN Posts: 7,053	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) 4sp has a pto option also, so you can run a little grain auger or something neat.

03-09-2012, 10:15 AM	#14
38 coupe Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: South Texas Posts: 1,631	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) That is a 1 ton. Ford started making the 3/4 ton in 39. This truck is the longer 122" wheelbase and has a different tailgate, bed, running boards, fenders, drive shaft, and rear axle than the 1/2 tons. Parts for these can get very hard to find. Also, the available axle ratios were 4.11 and 4.86. If the truck has the 4.11 ratio it can be driven much like a 3.78 equipped car due to the larger rear tires. If the truck has the 4.86 ratio, it will cruise happily at about 45 m.p.h. I'm not trying to discourage you, just help you make an informed decision.

03-09-2012, 10:36 AM	#15
donald1950 Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: san antonio, texas Posts: 461	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) one word: fantastic! buy it and if you do not want it sell it complete. and a 3 didget phone number from the "number please" days. a bit of fixing and drive it... don

03-09-2012, 11:35 AM	#16
Clem Clement Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Fairfax, VA Posts: 3,393	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Looks perfect to me! Love the door adds. My suttle advice is: BUY IT NOW!!!!!!! clem Last edited by Clem Clement; 03-09-2012 at 12:55 PM.

03-09-2012, 11:55 AM	#17
flatheadA Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: G.R. MICHIGAN Posts: 122	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) I passed up on a 3/4 ton truck for the same price last fall,different year but same situation.Been kicking my self in the a?? every since. Buy it.

03-09-2012, 03:16 PM	#18
alanwoodieman Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: upstate SC Posts: 2,963	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) I have the 41 version of the 3/4 ton, but mine is a stakebed and we really have a good time driving it. My looked like crap as compared to yours. Have you bought it yet???

03-09-2012, 10:22 PM	#19
Panel Pete Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Livermore, CA Posts: 21	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Well, since you ask my first thought is to BUY IT!!! I paid more than that for my field find 1/2 ton '38 (see avitar <----), and it's nowhere near as nice or complete as this one is. The fact that its been garaged ( or barned ) for the past 30+ years is awesome in itself. Fix it up mechanically, put it on the road and drive the heck out of it! __________________ Pete '38 Pickup

03-10-2012, 09:51 AM	#20
joe plumber Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 820	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Lichti Repair .I believe they are still in business in Geneva ,Nebr .Buy. it .

03-13-2012, 02:23 PM	#23
Tinker Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: MN Posts: 7,053	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Hope everything works out for you.

03-13-2012, 07:57 PM	#24
felix37 Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Chattanooga, TN Posts: 1,093	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) You have that large list of cars and you are asking us if 1,500 is a good deal! ?? I would have bought it already!

03-13-2012, 11:40 PM	#25
Panel Pete Junior Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Livermore, CA Posts: 21	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Congratulations! Keep us updated on the progress and post lots of pictures, looks like it'll be a great project. __________________ Pete '38 Pickup

03-13-2012, 11:57 PM	#26
41 Fords ohio Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2011 Location: Salt Lake City,Utah Posts: 141	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) For $1500 it would've been in my garage already. Nice truck,buy it and bring it back to the road! __________________ When will I be old enough to know better?

03-16-2012, 10:27 PM	#27
41panelmark Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,264	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Nice old truck. Bring it home.

03-17-2012, 05:38 AM	#28
Rem Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Oxford, England Posts: 96	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) 100MPH speedo!?

03-17-2012, 09:52 AM	#29
Gumpy Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Sf bay area Posts: 1,464	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) around where i live a truck like that would go from 4500.-5500. I would not hestitate to purchase myself but I like the idea of parts hauler....my neighbor owns a street rod shop...he just sold a 48 pickup that he got going and sprayed w/rustoleom in his garage for 10k....you guys in the midwest are very lucky!!

03-17-2012, 01:28 PM	#30
Itchy-Pit Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: Near Salinas,CA Posts: 271	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Very excited for you! Keep the posts coming! Check the brakes and get in on the road. Drive is for at least 6 months before you change anything! It's worth more untouched than "cleaned up" Just my 2 cents. Dennis

03-23-2012, 09:02 PM	#31
KeansClassics Member Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Denton, Nebraska Posts: 42	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Thanks everyone, I am super exited about the truck too! I've been trying to do some research on this truck but it doesn't look like there is very much information out there. Is this truck considered the "express one ton"? If anyone has any information such as the different specs, how many were made or just the general history behind these Ford One Ton's I would love to know it! Thanks! __________________ From Denton, Nebraska. Andrew Kean The Car Collection -1928 Dodge Victory 6 Four Door Sedan -1930 Ford Model A Murray Town Sedan 155C -1938 Ford One Ton Express Pickup -1946 Dodge D24 Four Door Sedan -1948 Plymouth P15 Deluxe Club Coupe -1952 International Harvester L121 -1956 Plymouth P29 Savoy -1958 Ford Custom 300 -1959 Edsel Ranger Four Door Sedan -1960 Edsel Ranger Four Door Sedan -1964 Ford F100 Flareside -1965 Ford F250 Styleside

03-24-2012, 08:03 AM	#32
38 coupe Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: South Texas Posts: 1,631	Re: What do you think of this Truck? (PICT'S) Yes, that is the one ton express. Express is the pickup bed version.