1959 Ford Pickup Trucks For Sale Craigslist: Your Guide to Finding a Classic Gem pickup.truckstrend.com
The year 1959 marked the final year of Ford’s iconic third-generation F-Series pickup trucks, a design era that cemented their place in American automotive history. With their distinctive styling, robust build, and an undeniable vintage charm, 1959 Ford pickups – particularly the ubiquitous F-100 – have become highly sought-after classics. For enthusiasts and restorers alike, the thrill of the hunt often leads to online marketplaces, and Craigslist, with its vast, localized listings, frequently emerges as a treasure trove for these timeless vehicles.
This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about finding and purchasing a 1959 Ford pickup truck on Craigslist. From understanding their enduring appeal to navigating the intricacies of online listings and making a smart purchase, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to bring home your very own piece of automotive heritage.
1959 Ford Pickup Trucks For Sale Craigslist: Your Guide to Finding a Classic Gem
The Enduring Appeal of the 1959 Ford F-Series Pickup
The 1959 Ford F-Series pickups belong to the third generation (1957-1960), a period characterized by a sleeker, more integrated design compared to their predecessors. The most popular model, the F-100, featured a wider cab, a new "Styleside" bed option (a smooth, flat-sided bed contrasting with the traditional "Flareside" or step-side bed), and improved ride quality. These trucks were workhorses, built to last, and their straightforward mechanicals meant they were relatively easy to maintain and repair.
Under the hood, buyers typically found Ford’s reliable Y-block V8 engines (272, 292, or 312 cubic inches) or an inline-six cylinder engine. The combination of classic lines, a sturdy chassis, and mechanical simplicity makes the ’59 Ford F-Series an ideal candidate for restoration, customization (think hot rods, restomods, or even reliable daily drivers), or simply enjoying as a piece of rolling history. Their distinct front grille, prominent hood, and large, rounded fenders give them an unmistakable presence that continues to captivate enthusiasts today.
Why Craigslist for Your 1959 Ford Pickup Search?
Craigslist might seem like a rudimentary platform in the age of sophisticated online marketplaces, but it offers unique advantages for classic vehicle hunters:
- Local Listings: Craigslist’s strength lies in its hyper-local focus, allowing you to find trucks within driving distance, saving on shipping costs and enabling in-person inspections.
- Direct Seller Contact: You’re dealing directly with the owner, often leading to more transparent conversations, quicker negotiations, and a better understanding of the vehicle’s history.
- Potential for Lower Prices: Without the overhead of dealerships or auction house fees, sellers often list their vehicles at more competitive prices.
- Unique Finds: Craigslist is a hub for "barn finds," incomplete projects, or trucks passed down through generations, offering opportunities for rare or overlooked gems.
- No Auction Pressure: You can take your time evaluating a listing without the pressure of an escalating bid.
However, Craigslist also presents challenges:
- Scams and Misrepresentation: As an open platform, it’s susceptible to fraudulent listings or sellers misrepresenting a vehicle’s condition.
- Lack of Buyer Protection: Unlike e-commerce sites, Craigslist offers no formal buyer protection or dispute resolution.
- Varying Listing Quality: Some listings are detailed with ample photos, while others are sparse and uninformative.
- Limited Search Filters: The search functionality is basic, requiring creative keyword usage.
Navigating Craigslist: A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding Your 1959 Ford
Finding your dream 1959 Ford pickup on Craigslist requires patience, diligence, and a strategic approach.
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Searching Effectively:
- Keywords: Use a variety of terms: "1959 Ford F100," "59 Ford Truck," "classic Ford pickup," "vintage Ford F100," "F-100," "F-250," "F-350" (if you’re open to heavier duty models).
- Location: Start with your local city, then expand to nearby regions or states you’re willing to travel to. Many buyers set up alerts for new listings in wider geographical areas.
- Price Range: Set a realistic price range, but also check listings slightly above and below, as prices can be negotiable.
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Analyzing Listings:
- Description: Read carefully. Look for details on engine type, transmission (manual or automatic), mileage (if available and believable), rust issues, any modifications, and the reason for selling. Phrases like "ran when parked," "needs TLC," or "project truck" are common and indicate varying levels of work required.
- Photos: Crucial for initial assessment. Zoom in on body panels for rust (rockers, cab corners, fender wells), frame condition, interior wear, and engine bay cleanliness. Ask for more photos of specific areas if needed, especially the underside and critical rust points.
- Contact Information: Prefer listings with a phone number, but email is fine for initial contact. Be wary of listings that only offer vague contact methods.
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Initial Contact and Questioning:
- Before driving hours to see a truck, ask specific questions via email or phone:
- Why are you selling the truck?
- Is the title clean and in your name? (Crucial!)
- Does it run and drive? If not, what prevents it from doing so?
- Are there any significant rust spots on the frame, cab, or bed?
- What is the truck’s mechanical condition (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension)?
- Has it been modified in any way?
- Are there any known leaks or major issues?
- When was it last registered/inspected?
- Before driving hours to see a truck, ask specific questions via email or phone:
Crucial Considerations Before Buying
Purchasing a classic vehicle, especially one over 60 years old, comes with unique challenges.
- Rust: The Number One Enemy: For 1959 Fords, common rust areas include cab corners, floor pans, fender wells, bed supports, and the lower sections of doors. Inspect the frame meticulously for rot, cracks, or previous shoddy repairs. Extensive frame rust can make a truck a parts donor rather than a restorable vehicle.
- Mechanical Condition: Even a running truck can have hidden issues. Check for engine smoke (blue indicates oil burning, black indicates rich fuel mix), strange noises, transmission slipping, and brake effectiveness. If it’s not running, determine the cause and estimate repair costs.
- Title and Documentation: A clean, transferable title in the seller’s name is non-negotiable. Verify the VIN on the title matches the vehicle. Be wary of "bill of sale only" vehicles, as titling them can be a bureaucratic nightmare.
- Originality vs. Customization: Decide if you want a historically accurate restoration or a modified vehicle. Original, unmolested trucks often command higher prices, but well-executed custom builds can also be valuable. Be aware that extensive modifications can complicate future repairs or parts sourcing.
- Budgeting for Restoration/Repairs: The purchase price is often just the beginning. Factor in costs for bodywork, paint, engine/transmission rebuilds, interior restoration, new tires, and potentially upgraded components (disc brakes, power steering, etc.). Even a "driver" will likely need ongoing maintenance.
Types of 1959 Ford Pickups You’ll Encounter (and What They Mean for You)
Craigslist listings will present a spectrum of conditions, each with different implications for your time and wallet:
- Project Trucks (Non-Running/Significant Rust/Damage): These are the cheapest, often requiring a complete frame-off restoration. Ideal for experienced restorers or those with a very flexible budget for professional work. Expect extensive bodywork, mechanical overhauls, and interior replacement.
- Driver Quality (Running & Driving, Needs TLC): Functional but cosmetically and mechanically imperfect. These are great for someone who wants to enjoy the truck immediately while slowly addressing issues. Expect minor rust, worn paint, tired interior, and some mechanical quirks.
- Partially Restored/Restomods: These trucks have had some work done, often with upgraded components like modern engines, transmissions, or suspension. They typically command higher prices, but you’re paying for someone else’s investment of time and money. Inspect the quality of the work carefully.
- Fully Restored/Show Quality: These are the cream of the crop, often meticulously restored to original specifications or built into high-end customs. They come with the highest price tags but offer immediate gratification and minimal work. A thorough inspection is still warranted to ensure the quality justifies the price.
Tips for a Successful Purchase
- Bring a Knowledgeable Friend: If you’re not an expert, bring someone who is familiar with classic cars, rust inspection, and mechanical issues.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): For higher-priced trucks, consider hiring a local mobile mechanic specializing in classics to perform a PPI. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands.
- Test Drive Thoroughly: If the truck runs, test drive it. Listen for engine noises, check brake effectiveness, feel for steering play, and test all gears (manual or automatic).
- Negotiation: Most Craigslist prices are negotiable. Do your research on comparable sales and be prepared to make a fair offer based on your assessment of the truck’s condition. Point out any flaws you find to justify a lower offer.
- Safety First: When meeting sellers, especially for the first time, choose a public location during daylight hours. Bring a friend. Inform someone of your plans.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Hidden Rust: What looks like surface rust can hide extensive rot. Solution: Bring a magnet to test for body filler over rust, and thoroughly probe suspicious areas with a screwdriver. Factor in potential body shop costs.
- Non-Running Vehicles: Buying a truck that doesn’t run is a gamble. Solution: Get a clear understanding from the seller why it doesn’t run. Is it a simple carburetor issue or a seized engine? If possible, get a mechanic’s estimate for repairs before committing.
- Scams: Red flags include prices that are "too good to be true," sellers unwilling to meet in person or provide a phone number, requests for wire transfers or gift cards, or vague answers to specific questions. Solution: Be vigilant. If something feels off, walk away.
- Parts Availability: While many parts for F-100s are reproduced, specific trim pieces or unique components for F-250s or F-350s can be harder to find. Solution: Research online forums and specialized classic Ford truck parts suppliers to gauge availability and cost before buying.
1959 Ford Pickup Trucks For Sale Craigslist: Estimated Price Guide
Please note: Prices are highly variable based on geographical location, specific model (F-100, F-250, F-350), engine/transmission, originality, and the overall quality of restoration or lack thereof. This table provides a general range for the US market.
| Condition Category | Description | Estimated Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Project Truck | Non-running, significant rust, major body damage, incomplete, missing parts. Requires extensive mechanical, body, and interior work. Often used for parts or as a long-term, frame-off restoration candidate. | $1,500 – $6,000 |
| Driver Quality | Runs and drives, but needs significant cosmetic attention (paint, bodywork, interior) and likely mechanical refreshing (brakes, suspension, engine tune-up). May have some rust but generally solid frame. Can be enjoyed immediately. | $7,000 – $18,000 |
| Partially Restored / Restomod | Functional with some restoration work completed (e.g., new engine, updated suspension, fresh paint on certain panels). May feature modern upgrades (disc brakes, power steering, A/C, engine swap). Quality of work can vary significantly. | $19,000 – $35,000 |
| Fully Restored / Show Quality | Meticulously restored to original specifications or a high-quality custom build. Excellent paint, pristine interior, rebuilt mechanicals, no significant rust. Ready for shows or reliable cruising. | $36,000 – $65,000+ |
| Rare/Exceptional Builds | Extremely rare configurations (e.g., unique F-350 dually, factory options), or professionally built, high-end restomods with top-tier components and flawless execution. Can command prices well above the typical range. | $65,000 – $100,000+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the 1959 Ford F-100 a good first classic truck?
A1: Yes, absolutely. Parts availability is generally good, their mechanicals are straightforward, and there’s a strong community of owners and resources online.
Q2: What are the most common rust spots on a 1959 Ford pickup?
A2: Common areas include cab corners, floor pans, rocker panels, lower door skins, bed crossmembers, and the lower sections of the front fenders. Always check the frame for structural rust.
Q3: Can I still get parts for a 1959 Ford pickup?
A3: For F-100s, yes, many parts (body panels, mechanical, trim reproductions) are available from specialized classic Ford truck parts suppliers. Some F-250/F-350 specific parts might be harder to source.
Q4: How much does it cost to restore a 1959 F-100?
A4: A full, professional frame-off restoration can easily cost anywhere from $30,000 to $80,000+, not including the purchase price of the truck. A DIY restoration can be significantly cheaper but requires considerable time, skill, and tools.
Q5: What’s the difference between Styleside and Flareside beds?
A5: The Styleside bed (introduced in 1957) has smooth, straight sides that are integrated with the cab’s styling. The Flareside bed (or "stepside") has distinct rear fenders that flare out, and steps located between the cab and the rear wheels, giving it a more traditional, utilitarian look.
Q6: Is Craigslist safe for buying classic vehicles?
A6: It can be, but vigilance is key. Always follow safety guidelines: meet in public, bring a friend, don’t go alone to remote locations, verify titles, and never send money via wire transfer or gift cards before seeing the vehicle and verifying ownership.
Q7: What engines were available in 1959 F-series trucks?
A7: The primary engine options were inline-six cylinder engines (e.g., 223 cu in "Mileage Maker") and various Ford Y-block V8s, including the 272 cu in, 292 cu in ("Thunderbird" V8 in some applications), and less commonly, the 312 cu in.
Conclusion
The hunt for a 1959 Ford pickup truck on Craigslist is more than just a transaction; it’s an adventure into the world of classic vehicle ownership. While the platform demands caution and thorough due diligence, it offers unparalleled access to a diverse range of these beloved trucks, from humble project vehicles to polished showpieces. By understanding the nuances of the 1959 F-Series, meticulously evaluating listings, asking the right questions, and budgeting realistically for the journey ahead, you can successfully navigate Craigslist and secure a timeless piece of American automotive history. The satisfaction of owning, driving, and perhaps restoring a ’59 Ford pickup is a reward that far outweighs the challenges of the search.
