1961 Ford Ranchero
SOLD
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| Engine | 502ci |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Drive | RWD |
| VIN | 1K27U100000 |
| Mileage | 2,423 |
| Exterior | Burgundy |
| Interior | Black |
| Stock NO | 1914 |
| Fuel economy |
Comments
All vehicle trades considered including classics and performance. We can assist with financing and transport as needed.
There are Rancheros, and then there are RANCHEROS. This 1961 all-caps version is the result of a lengthy frame-off rotisserie build completed in 2013 with just 2,500 miles since. It is loaded with great features including a 2x3” steel frame, full tilt front end, 502ci power, beautiful hand-crafted bed, custom interior, and more. You will not find another one like it.
This Ranchero started life as a straight-six grocery getter and had given plenty of service when it became the focal point of this project. It was completely stripped down and transformed into the vehicle you see today. An extensive photo log and receipt folder are included. The original Falcon-based unibody design now utilizes a fabricated frame constructed from 2x3” tubing. The body was altered with a one-piece tilt front end that is all metal and really improves engine access. Another big change was the bed which is now tubbed and beautifully redone with wood and stainless fasteners. Of course, there is also the excellent paint along with new chrome, trim, seals, glass, lenses, emblems, and more. Note the Kindig-it door handles too. It rolls on 15” Centerline wheels with Mickey Thompson Sportsman tires (26x7.5 front, 31x16.5 rear).
While Ford’s old 170 cubic inch inline-six is a fine engine, it’s 105 hp was not going to cut it on this build. Displacement was tripled in the form of an aluminum-headed Chevy ZZ502 crate engine rated at more than 500 hp and almost 600 foot-pounds of torque. It is topped by a Holley carburetor with vacuum secondaries and electric choke. There is also a large aluminum radiator, while the exhaust features custom headers and electric cutouts. The big engine is mated to a TH400 automatic transmission with a shift kit followed by a narrowed Ford 9” rear end housing 4.11 gears and Strange axles.
The suspension is completely revised with a tubular Mustang II style front setup and a 4-link rear with Panhard bar. There are adjustable coilovers all around so you can easily adjust the ride height to your liking. Steering has been converted to a rack and pinion arrangement, while the brakes were upgraded to power 4-wheel discs with parts from Wilwood.
The work didn’t stop there! The interior was completely redone with many custom features. Let’s start with the fabricated trans tunnel / center console (complete with cupholders) which is flanked by JEGS racing seats with RCI safety belts with a proper harness bar in back. The dashboard is also custom and houses a full complement of Autometer gauges. It has wood inserts that continue to the door panels which are nicely accented with polished handles. There is a tilt steering column along with a B&M ratchet shifter that includes a line lock button. Note this Ranchero includes a working horn, wipers, lights, turn signals, and parking brake. Wiring is new throughout.
This build required a tremendous effort as evidenced in the photo album. It could not be duplicated for anywhere near the asking price, making this a great deal for the next owner. It also represents a show-and-go vehicle that really stands out. After all, when is the last time you saw a Ranchero anything like this one?
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