1951 Ford F-1 Pickup

The first-generation of the Ford F-Series (also known as the Ford Bonus-Built trucks) is a series of trucks that was produced by Ford from the 1948 to the 1952 model years. The introduction of the F-Series marked the divergence of Ford car and truck design, developing a chassis intended specifically for truck use. Alongside pickup trucks, the model line included also panel vans, bare and cowled chassis, and marked the entry of Ford into the medium and heavy-duty truck segment.

The 1951 Ford pickup was a pivotal member of Ford’s “Bonus Built” line of postwar trucks.  It was the broadest roster in Ford truck history, spanning vehicles from half-ton pickups to three-ton commercial haulers.

This 1951 Ford F-1 is a half-ton pickup finished in Sheridan Blue and powered by a 239ci V8 sends power to the rear wheels through a column-shifted three-speed manual transmission.

Body-colored steel wheels wear polished trim rings and center caps and are fitted with Firestone tires at each corner.

The cabin features a bench seat upholstered in gray and red, along with side vent windows, lap belts, and rubber floor mats. A three-spoke steering wheel fronts instrumentation including a 90-mph speedometer and gauges for temperature, oil, fuel level, and battery.

Fords were always known to be durable and capable of taking great punishment and this first purpose-built Ford truck was no different. As Weinberg’s other great interests, besides music, are art and architecture, it’s not surprising that this vehicle held such appeal for him. The Ford F-1 is a great example of form following function, a strong workhorse given style without extraneous decoration or frills, very similar to the style of music Max has so adeptly contributed to over the many years of his career.