Rescue of Abandoned 1977 Ford F-250 with Low Mileage after 35 Years

Reviving a neglected Ford Explorer truck: its new chapter begins.

Prior to the introduction of the Ford Explorer SUV, Ford had the Ford F-Series Explorer pickup truck. The Explorer was a special trim package available for the entire F-Series range from the F-100 to the F-350 in the past. This specific truck is a 1977 F-250 Custom single cab with an attractive red color and white stripes. Despite its current dirty appearance, the original design shines through underneath.

This is where the team from WD Detailing steps in. After being stored in a barn for 35 years, the owner is finally ready to give it some much-needed attention. However, before any work can begin, the vehicle must be liberated from the barriers of barrels, pallets, and equipment that are blocking its exit. Adding to the challenge, the tires are deflated and the dirt floor of the barn is covered in slippery mud. Eventually, the old truck is rolled out into the open, revealing the extent of the task ahead. The exterior is completely coated in dirt, and a quick look inside uncovers a disturbing amount of mouse droppings.

First Wash in 35 Years: Ford F250 BARN FIND With 17k Original Miles! | Satisfying Restoration

During the recovery process, we discover that the truck has only 17,000 miles on it. If this Ford doesn’t have any fatal damage, it might be quite valuable after a thorough cleaning. A significant dent on the driver’s side door, apparently inflicted by a cow while it was parked in the barn, and some paint chipping on the passenger side are visible. Fortunately, there is no visible rust, so the initial outlook for the F-250 seems positive.

As the grime is blasted away with a power washer, the vehicle improves significantly. The white accents of the Explorer kit stand out beautifully against the red paint job, and the interior also cleans up impressively, although there is a mouse nest in the glove box. The minimal wear at the bottom of the bench seat suggests that the odometer reading is likely accurate.

The detailing crew refrains from trying to fire up the pickup truck. It houses a 400 cubic-inch V-8 engine that probably requires thorough servicing before being able to start. However, a machine polish gives a fantastic sparkle to the paint, making it appear prepared for an exciting adventure off the beaten path.

American trucks from the 1970s and 1980s have aged well over time. A brief online search shows various late 1970s F-250 pickups being sold for prices ranging from $20,000 to $60,000. Recently, a comparable single-cab truck, lacking the Explorer package, was sold on Bring a Trailer for $38,000 despite having double the mileage. Whether these trucks end up on off-road trails or at an auction, it’s satisfying to see them meticulously restored and presented.

Source: WD Detailing / YouTube