Frame Up Restored F-100 Pickup 223 6 3 Speed

The Ford F-series is known across the world as a hardworking truck. That reputation is a big part of why it earned the title of America's Bestselling Vehicle for 28 consecutive years. Of course, a lifetime of dedicated service should be rewarded and, for a few chosen trucks, a leisurely retirement of cruise-ins and show fields awaits. This '57 Ford F100 is one of those privileged few. Fresh out of a frame-up restoration, the truck has been given an entirely new demeanor without straying far from its roots. Featuring a 223cid inline six, three-speed manual transmission, and a great vintage vibe that simply can't be recreated, this is a standout Ford for those who love fifties design, sixties hot-rodding, and the timeless combination of the two. If you're ready for a night at the races, head there in style with this slick '57 F100.

When most of us think of 1957 in the automotive world, images of chrome, fins, and excess come to mind. Even the Ford cars of the day follow that formula but, somehow, the trucks evolved. Ford called it “Bold Modern Styling” and, for once, an advertising slogan held true. As the VIN verifies, this '57 was born on the west coast, at Ford's San Jose, California assembly line. Looking at the truck today, it certainly doesn't look like something that would've been on the road over 50 years ago. Originally solid red, the exceptionally straight body now wears a two-tone black and white paint scheme that fits the truck's styling perfectly. A thin red pinstripe divides the colors, adding an eye-catching detail. The paintwork presents well with no notable flaws present. Panel fitment is equally above average with consistent gaps all around the truck.

While the paint certainly draws you in, the details follow up nicely. The new-for-1957 front end begins with a large full-width chrome bumper which sits below a pair of round parking lights. Above, a pair of round headlights anchor the impressive chrome grille. A red Ford badge fronts the hood, leading the eye over the raised and ribbed center section of the hood. Chrome wipers wipe clean a new windshield, matched with new side and rear glass wrapped in pristine stainless. At the front corners of the cab, round chrome rear view mirrors sit just in front of “Custom Cab” script. The driver side vent window features an ultra cool 1959 NHRA sticker that fits the truck's racy appearance. Along the profile, a horizontal line runs from stem to stern, giving the truck a crisp cohesive look. Inside the bed, the floors and bed sides have been smoothed and a bicycle mount has been added. At the rear, simple round taillights frame the large Ford script while another chrome bumper completes the package.

We've had a number of F100's come through the door over the past few years and nearly all of them have sported either a modern or fully built V8 of some order. While power is always a welcome addition, there's a lot to be said for staying true to the vehicle's build era. Pop the hood on this F100 and a correct 223cid inline six cylinder fills in the space between the fenders. The block itself wears an EBP-6015-H casting number above the pan rail, identifying it as a period-correct 1957 block. From the intake manifold to the oil pan, all the major components wear a fresh coat of Ford Blue. At the top, a compact air cleaner cover conceals a vintage Holley one-barrel carburetor with a glass bowl. To the left, a chrome Ford-branded valve cover gives the bay a few extra style points. At the front of the engine, an OEM- style radiator cools the I6 while a generator and fan spin off engine power below. The engine is surrounded by satin black inner fender wells and a gloss black firewall which wears a clutch cylinder, a master cylinder, a wiper motor, and a fresh battery with “Ford Drag Team” facing outward. Turn the key and the 223 comes to life with its distinctive six-cylinder gurgle.

Put the truck on a lift and you'll find a rugged undercarriage supporting the truck. Satin black bed and cab floors serve as the backdrop while a reliable three-speed manual transmission hangs between the frame rails. Power is transferred down the driveshaft and out to a trusty Ford 9-inch differential. Around the drivetrain, the simple factory suspension relies on leaf springs at all corners. While there are no lowering blocks or obvious modifications, a fresh set of KYB GR-2 shocks can be found at all corners. This is a straightforward machine, meaning niceties like power steering aren't present but, thankfully, the brakes have been upgraded to a dual master cylinder setup which feeds a four-wheel drum configuration. The chassis meets the ground through a set of nostalgic Cragar S/S five-spokes wrapped in Firestone redline tires. Not only do the redline tires add some muscle car appeal to the package; they also pick up the red Ford badges and pin striping perfectly.

Open the doors of this ex-workhorse and a simple but stylish interior awaits. The good looks start with factory-style door panels which combine white paint with a black vinyl panel and chrome accessories. From there, a painted white step leads in the cab where black rubber mats protect the floor. Above, seating is provided by a tidy black bench seat wide enough for at least three people. From the driver seat, the factory steel dash hosts gauges that monitor speed, fuel, temperature, generator output, and oil. With their mix of black, silver, and white, the gauges fit the truck's theme well. Below, pull switches operate accessories like wipers, lights, and the unique round-faced AM radio. Control of the truck is granted through a large Ford-branded three-spoke steering wheel which mounts to a standard column. On the right side of that column, a classic “three-on-the-tree” shifter grants access to the three-speed transmission below. Above the interior, the headliner has been finished in a black vinyl pattern that mimics the bench seat and door panels, giving the entire interior a cohesive look. The headliner terminates in two large sun visors and a chrome rear view mirror.

With its “Bold Modern Styling” and period-correct charm, this Ford goes beyond a simple OEM restoration, creating the kind of mildly custom truck you may have seen emerge in the 1960s. Combine its visual cues with the period-correct 223cid inline six, stylish interior and high quality restoration and the truck's appeal just keeps growing. If you're ready to add a unique hauler to your collection, don't miss the chance to claim this awesome '57 Ford F100.