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The last of the "traditional" Ford pickups were the 1953-56 F-series, considered either handsome or front-heavy by enthusiasts. I find them very nicely proportioned indeed, especially the 1956 models with their wrap-around windshield. Popular options were the Custom Cab, which netted 2-tone deluxe upholstery plus extra chrome inside and out; and wrap-around "Big Window" rear glass. Opted with the 272 c.i. V8, the '56 F-100 (1/2 ton) was a great little hauler in any sense of the word.
DM's fully-equipped F-100 was only the second in its now long line of pickups, so is without such present-day amenities as separate windshield wipers, high-fidelity engine compartment detailing and working suspension. But its accurate lines, delicately crafted chrome window surrounds, and superbly miniaturized emblems, door handles, mirrors and wheel trim, plus snug shut lines, make it stand up well to later releases. The dashboard is replete with readable gauges and the little round radio tuner, and below it are the heater plus emergency brake and cowl vent levers. Thru-the-firewall round brake and clutch pedals are along for their farewell appearance. An excessive gap exists between the wood-lined bed floor and the tailgate, but that's my only complaint.
The standard non-liveried release is in red with blackwall tires. Price: $111 + $6 S&H. This black, white-walled version was test-marketed briefly in late 1994, and then re-issued in limited numbers in November, 1997 and shows up occasionally on the secondary market. The issue price was $111 inc. S&H. A recent iteration is in Texaco livery. (10/23/1998) The replica is being re-issued again in '99 with photo-etched wipers, a removeable spare and wired engine. (02/20/1999)
(02/19/1999)
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