VERY SOLID F-100 RANGER, 351W V8, AUTO, PWR FRNT DISCS, PWR STEER, FACTORY A/C!

1978 Ford F-100 Ranger XLT Description

What other pickup exudes the go-anywhere, do-anything kind of attitude that this 1978 Ford F-100 Ranger does? Rugged, powerful, and built when trucks were industrial-strength tools, not image machines for guys with insecurity problems, this truck remains an outstanding piece of Ford history and a heck of a lot of fun to boot.Obviously this one has been freshened a bit, but that gorgeous white-over-red color combination is how the factory built it and it's gorgeous! The big-rig look of this truck comes from a combination of the heavy-duty truck styling and the straight, clean lines that were a common sight on the back roads and farms of America for two decades. There's a lot of time invested in this big guy, and thanks to easy living down south, there's no signs of major bodywork. The paint is a few years old and not perfect, but given this truck's capabilities, it appears that it has not been used all that aggressively, and the shine it carries is better than anything 1970s paint technology could have managed. All the upscale XLT Ranger trim remains in place, including the chrome bumpers, polished stainless grille surround, and the sweeping trim that stretches from nose to tail, neatly framing the red sections of bodywork. The bed is protected with a heavy-duty rubber mat and convenient tie-down loops in the stake pockets, and while it's been refinished, it's not so nice that you're afraid to use it as intended.There's more of that awesome and tasteful color combination inside, where an original style bench seat gives this truck comfortable accommodations for three. Thanks to the XLT Ranger upgrade, it also offers some faux wood that's maybe not as convincing as it should be, but heck, this is a truck, not a Lexus. That burled walnut does surround a nice array of gauges which show surprisingly crisp markings, and you really do have to be impressed by the level of preservation inside this big pickup. Factory A/C is an unusual option on a '70s pickup (the system needs to be serviced) along with the original AM radio that still works as it should. Cruise control buttons mounted on the steering wheel are a uniquely Ford feature that was surely ahead of its time, although it's currently not functional (probably due to the engine upgrades). With plenty of room, excellent visibility, and a comfortable driving position, this is a truck you can use for long hauls as well as daily transportation.Power comes from a stout 351 cubic inch V8 which offers a great soundtrack and impressive performance. Tuned for low-end grunt, it moves the truck effortlessly and you'll probably find yourself enjoying the stoplight grand prix more than you expected in a big pickup. It's not quite the way the factory intended, with a new Holley 4-barrel carburetor, aluminum intake manifold, and a Flowmaster dual exhaust system deviating from original specifications, and there are a few chrome pieces to help it show off a bit. Underneath, it's clean and tidy, with a 3-speed automatic transmission and heavy-duty rear end with towering 2.75 gears inside, so it's actually quite comfortable on the highway. Wheels from a 1990s F150 are the perfect fit and are wrapped in big Goodyear Wrangler radials that look great and fill the big wheel wells perfectly.These Fords were renowned for their reliability and style, and this one definitely takes it to the next level. Call today!