Credit: Original article published by Barrett-Jackson.
Pickup trucks are one of the hottest segments in the collector vehicle market these days and only seem to be getting hotter. These highly sought-after collectibles are unique and eye-catching, with a rich history and cultural significance.
One reason pickups are so desirable is because they are so versatile. They can be used to tow vintage race cars to and from the track or utilized to take home those extra engines and transmissions found at a car meet. Along with versatility, pickup trucks often feature rugged looks and powerful engines. They can be customized by being lowered or lifted, adding aftermarket wheels and performance upgrades to make them stand out even more.
Pickup trucks also evoke a sense of nostalgia because of their long history in American culture, dating back to the early 20th century. In rural areas, where people may need to travel long distances on unpaved roads or in harsh weather conditions, pickups have provided and continue to provide a sense of security and freedom. Their ability to traverse rough conditions has also made them popular vehicles for outdoor recreation ‒ they can carry all the necessary equipment and supplies needed.
With the abundance manufactured in the United States, pickup trucks have truly become part of America’s heritage. They harken back to simple times spent on back roads with friends, as evidenced by the many chart-topping country songs that weave a love of pickups into the lyrics. They represent a connection to youth, freedom and the American way.
Enjoy this gallery of pickups headed to the April 13-15 Palm Beach Auction – each is sure to remind you to “Take a Little Ride” and say, “Truck Yeah!”
LOT #753 – TOM SELLECK’S 1953 DODGE POWER WAGON PICKUP – NO RESERVE
This 1953 Dodge Power Wagon pickup was previously owned by actor Tom Selleck and comes with a photo of Selleck with the truck, as well as a letter documenting his ownership. This Power Wagon was restored and customized for Selleck for use on his ranch in California. It is powered by a 230ci inline 6-cylinder engine backed by a 4-speed manual transmission. This Power Wagon was originally a fire truck and features a PTO winch and a PTO water pump system for drawing water from a stagnant source. The truck also features a high-gloss wood floor overlay in the cargo box. Its upholstery was addressed when the truck was restored, and a rifle rack has been installed in the cab. The truck has been converted to a 12-volt electrical system with a modern alternator and rides on stock Budd split rims wrapped in Michelin X tires. 19,124 actual miles.
LOT #749 – 1956 FORD F-100 CUSTOM PICKUP – NO RESERVE
This 1956 Ford F-100 big-window pickup was built by Undercover Restorations in Merritt Island, FL. Over 2,000 labor hours were invested, and the build was completed in 2021 with test miles only. The chassis is equipped with No Limit’s wide-ride independent front suspension, power rack & pinion steering, rear rocker-style shock linkage with trailing-arm setup and Viking coilovers at all four corners. Power comes from a John Kaase Racing Boss 520ci engine fitted with 8-stack electronic fuel injection and breathing through a set of custom headers with a full 3-inch dual exhaust exiting at the rear of the running boards. The engine is mated to a B&M-shifted 6-speed automatic transmission delivering all the horsepower to a Ford 9-inch rear end. Its underpinnings start with a custom Graphite Silver powder-coated No Limit Engineering Big 10 chassis featuring 10-inch frame rails in the center section. The exterior is finished in Solar Red Crystal tri-coat paint complemented by a new birdseye maple wood bed coated in urethane clear. Stopping is handled by Wilwood 4-wheel power disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors. The fully customized interior is upholstered in two-tone brown/tan diamond-stitched leather with brown alligator Inserts and black carpet. It features Vintage Air, a modern gauge cluster, power windows and a Pioneer double-DIN touchscreen stereo with Pioneer speakers and Pioneer-powered subwoofer. This custom F-100 rolls on Billet Specialties wheels wrapped in Mickey Thompson Street Comp tires.
2023 PALM BEACH AUCTION – 1971 CHEVROLET C10 CUSTOM PICKUP – NO RESERVE
This 1971 Chevrolet C10 custom pickup is the recipient of a nut-and-bolt frame-off restoration and customization. It is powered by an all-stock 5.3-liter LS V8 engine with an upgraded Holley mid-rise intake and custom Holley pulleys paired with a GM 4L60 transmission with a stock stall torque converter. The short-bed big-window cab and body are finished in Porsche Aquamarine Blue gloss with a satin finish on the grille. The entire floor was spray-lined before assembly. Inside the cab resides a Vintage Air system for summer cruising, and the engine remains cool with a Stay Cool performance radiator. The air-ride suspension is controlled by dual Viair compressors and tanks, an AccuAir motherboard and E-Level on all four corners, and a controller in a hidden ashtray pocket. It is controllable with a phone app via Bluetooth. Other options include RideTech StreetGRIP sway bar, Borla dual exhaust, shaved firewall, retro radio with Kicker speakers in kick panels, all LED exterior lighting with integrated turn signals on headlights, raised bed floor with mini-tubs, Auto Customs 2-inch seat drop, Ididit tilt steering column and a Boyd’s aluminum fuel tank with sending unit. This pickup rolls on Foose Merlot-style wheels wrapped in Lexani tires.
