Professionally Sorted Econoline Falcon Wagon 240 6-cyl Automatic A/C Discs

When it comes to being a classic car enthusiast, there's no time like the present. Virtually anyone with a pile of catalogs and a nice savings account can build a head-turning custom that looks and performs better than OEM. And while that universal access to top-notch componentry is taking creativity to new heights, it's also inching the hobby further and further away from the factory-spec art we all fell in love with. Sure, visionary builders are constantly upping the ante in terms of quality and craft. But, in the immortal words of Sparky Anderson: “good seasons start with good beginnings”. This exquisite 1965 Ford Econoline Falcon Deluxe Club Wagon is an exceptionally restored classic that drives, shines and feels just as classy as when it rolled off Ford's Lorain assembly line. And if you're a scrupulous buyer who's looking for something authentic, madcap and perhaps even a bit Kustom, it's the timeless collectible you've been patiently waiting for!

THE DEFINITION OF COOL

Professionally sorted by the wizards at Torque Classic Cars in West Palm Beach, Florida, this award-winning Econoline is, without a doubt, one of the nicest Ford Club Wagon's in existence! You know, there's a running joke in the automotive enthusiast community that wagons are, hands down, the coolest form of transportation. And, well, after seeing this delightful Falcon, we don't think that's such a bad premise. Developed as a direct replacement for both Ford's Courier and F-series panel delivery, the first-generation Econoline joined the Corvair Greenbriar, Dodge A100 and, of course, Volkswagen Type 2 in defining what is perhaps the golden era of vans. Both innovative and utilitarian, the Econoline was set apart by its mid-engine, rear-wheel drive forward-control layout. And today, these beloved work horses can be found everywhere from dragstrips to kustom kar meets.

Quality restoration and stalwart upkeep have been carefully woven into this classic's 57 year history and, when purchased by its current owner, the van was solid, nicely painted and reliably streetable. Correct Prairie Bronze base lays a vibrant metallic foundation for bright white spears and a slick Pepper White roof, both commissioned by the current owner. That Mini-sourced pigment plays well with handsome pinstriping which, along with fun decals and bolt-in '49 Pontiac taillights, provides an air of artistic expression. Factory bumpers shine great under fixed mirrors, factory handles and a factory antenna. An LED Center High Mount Stop Lamp looks natural behind a narrow ladder and ornate spare tire skin. That ladder leads to a cool sky light and a cooler dealer accessory roof rack. And it all adds up to 'just right' aesthetics that effortlessly turn heads and easily spark smiles!

CORRECT MADE STEADFAST

Probably the most charming and simultaneously frustrating fact about old cars is: they're old cars. The inherently finnicky nature of classics can be extremely troublesome when you're introducing someone to the hobby, and that's why this Ford sports a correct, freshly rebuilt six-cylinder. While the van was reliably streetable at the time of the consignor's purchase, it would be driven and enjoyed by the owner's daughter. That meant reliability had to be absolutely bulletproof. A quick call to the pros at Jasper Engines and Transmissions revealed the second most charming and simultaneously frustrating fact about old cars: exclusivity. Jasper literally did not have one 240 cubic inch Ford six in stock, but in the very next breath, they offered to take the van's current engine and professionally rebuild it. Roughly two months after pickup, the top-option motor arrived back at the owner's shop ready for install. Many hours were spent ensuring heat would never be an issue, with a custom Champion radiator, a spry electric fan and a custom fan shroud aiding both cooling and air conditioning. And items like a correct carburetor and a higher output alternator continue this Ford's trend of augmenting proven tradition with tasteful modification.

AND FALCON FOR ALL

You might've noticed the stylish Falcon branding on the doors of this beast. For obvious marketing reasons, many first-generation Econolines were branded as Falcons. But the connection is a bit more than skin deep, as all first-generation Econolines were also based on the Falcon's architecture. That said, it is a substantially modified Falcon architecture. The relocated engine powers a compact 90-inch wheelbase, the shortest wheelbase under any Ford since 1908, that's been fitted with two solid axles and tough leaf springs. That chassis is pushed by a correct Ford C4 3-speed, which turns a correct, 8.75-inch rear axle. Steering is manual, as per the factory, and very pleasant given the van's small dimensions and forward-control geometry. Retrofitted front disc brakes provide improved stopping. Exhaust is simple, with a factory-style muffler feeding one polished tip. And at the corners, silver steelies spin simulated whitewalls around polished beauty rings and classy '57 Ford centers.

CRUISE THE WHOLE CREW

The true beauty of 'restored as needed' is that a lot of the vehicle's original charm is retained. You can certainly feel that spirit between the doors of this wagon, where original paint and retro panels frame choice vintage simplicity – or maybe it's just energy from the tiki dancer, the dreamcatcher and the guardian angels. More delightful patina comes in the form of shag armrests and an old school shag headliner, which look especially great framed by custom curtains. Speaking of flooring, a fresh rug, which rides an original floor mat that's been trimmed to fit, floats a hidden fire extinguisher behind a requisite footprint dimmer switch. A dressed and decaled dash hangs factory telemetry and factory audio above controls for modern air conditioning. Snazzy pearl seats provide much more contrast than Ford's original Palomino vinyl, especially under colorful pillows. A wood console, custom built by Marine Construction Inc, of Lake Park, Florida, reflects custom burnings behind convenient cupholders. That wood, by the way, is merely Velcro-ed to the van's engine cover and can be completely removed without damage to any paint. The driver floats the road through a Deluxe steering wheel. And in case you're wondering, the van's heater is among the many cool and rare items included with its sale.

From its stylish whitewalls to its cool roof rack, this extraordinary Ford is a completely sorted head turner that's ready to hit the road! Is there anything better than an innovative crowd-gatherer that literally defines America's passionate obsession with automobiles? We think not. Call, click or visit http://www.RKMotors.com and claim your ticket to classic car fame!

----------

HIGHLIGHTS

* Professionally sorted Ford Econoline Falcon Deluxe Club Wagon that's been restored as needed
* 1 of only 2,259 1965 Econoline Falcon Deluxe Club Wagons assembled
* Correct 240 cubic inch Ford six-cylinder that's been professionally rebuilt by Jasper
* Custom Champion radiator, electric fan and a custom fan shroud
* Correct Ford C4 3-speed automatic transmission
* Correct Ford 8.75-inch rear axle
* Modern air conditioning
* Manual steering
* Manual front disc and rear drum brakes
* Retro interior with Pearl seats and custom curtains
* Custom wood console with custom burnings
* Crank Up Sky Light
* Correct Ford Prairie Bronze body paint under Mini Pepper White roof paint
* 14-inch painted steel wheels with simulated whitewalls, polished beauty rings and '57 Ford centers
* Original Build Sheet
* Service records
* All RK Motors vehicles receive a comprehensive, multi-point inspection
* We can ship your new classic anywhere in the world