Restored 1973 Ford Dentside Keeps on Truckin’
Rebuilt, restored, and revived; this 1973 F-100 proves why old Ford trucks are so irresistible.
We’re not going to lie, we have a weakness for older Ford trucks. Especially the Ford F-series rigs from the 1970s. They are big, solid trucks that deliver a powerful performance. They look unbelievably good, are tough on the road. Behind the wheel, it feels like this is how a truck should drive. Yes, today’s trucks are killer; but when it comes to drool-worthy, we often tend towards the classics.
In keeping with our insatiable appetite for sixth-generation (1973 to 1979) Ford trucks, we chose this 1973 Ford F-100 in the Ranger XLT trim.
The black and gray really make the body pop. Dentsides were so so named due to the body-length dent added to accommodate the side-marker lamps. Although, eagle-eyed Ford fans might notice a few anomalies from the classic 1973 F-100 truck. Namely, the addition of a 1979 grille and rectangular lights.
According to seller 4-Wheel Classics, the ’79 grille was chosen by the builder who simply preferred the looks of the head lamps and boxy single frame grille over the ’73s split grille. We like it, frankly. It works, and the fusion of sixth-gen elements is a cool touch.
Having underwent a full restoration, this is a remarkably clean ride. Also remarkable is that this used to be two toned in yellow and white. The now black and gray combo was a slick choice, which we think was a nice upgrade–and definitely turned up the attitude.
A seamless fit, the fiberglass Raider truck cap is a smart addition. (The fact that is also sports the colors of the LA Raiders may be a coincidence, or a sly nod.)
Under the hood is a rebuilt original 360 5.9 L V8. And there is only 6,800 miles on the odometer. Additionally, it rocks Edelbrock carbs, MSD ignition, headers, dual exhaust, power steering and power brakes, and dual batteries. And it’s a manual!
Performance-oriented in its rebuild, it has a 3″ lift, new aluminum rims with Firestone A/T Tires.
Inside, the upgrades are perfect, adding a little modern comfort but keeping the spirit of ’73 alive.
So, we’ve established classic dentsides just kick ass. What can often be a deterrent to buying a cherry older truck is the price.
Also See: We May Have Found the Perfect Two Tone Bronco
When you see a classic restored pickup that looks flawless, you expect a drumroll and then a price tag that knocks you out. So we were pretty shocked to see this F-100 was only $21,900.
We love a rock-solid classic Ford truck. If someone were to ask “Why?” we would show them this F-100. Case closed.
Photos: 4 Wheel Classics
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