Occasionally, vehicles need a good wash. The washing job, however, could become complicated when it involves a rare all-original vehicle (almost) that has not seen a cleaning agent for decades. Thanks to a meticulous washing and detailing job at Ammo NYC, this 1978 Ford F-250 Ranger Lariat went from dirty to shiny.
The Lowest Mileage Ford Truck Needs Washing
This 1978 Ford F-250 has only traveled 139 miles on the road – possibly the lowest mileage classic Ford pickup truck in the world. The original owner bought this truck new in Charlotte, North Carolina. It features an exterior in Crème and Dark Brown Metallic finish – a rare color combo specified in just 11 examples.
Moreover, this F-250 features a Saddle Lariat interior, with amazingly unblemished Lariat upholstery and carpet. The original owner specified additional rare options, including factory “Speed Control” (cruise control) and air conditioning.
Its factory paint texture, assembly line codes, and labels are still visible, while its original paperwork and window sticker remains intact. All items are F-250 original except for the 1977 Bronco style hubcaps and adapter rings. The owner drove the truck just once, parked it in the garage afterwards, and never took it out to the road.
Restoring The Truck To Its Original Condition
After acquiring the F-250 from the original owner, Firehouse Vintage Vehicles tapped Larry Kosilla of Ammo NYC for a preservation wash. This is different from the usual washing and detailing job, as the goal was not just to make the truck look new, but to rejuvenate it to its original condition with a less invasive process. Nevertheless, a truck stored for over 40 years without any wash already has stains as well as oxidized paint under the dust.
Larry started the job by first power-washing the F-250. He decided to employ light polishing since the coating is not so thick; he used light pads and light white polish to massage, exfoliate and rejuvenate the paint. He repeated the process on various exterior sections, including the chrome pieces, as well as the top of the rails and cab. Larry used stronger polishing on the bumpers due to the oxidation.
Finishing Touches For A Rejuvenated 1978 F-250
Larry then cleaned the engine and the bay using steam and light moisture. Like in some other projects, he found the glass parts difficult to clean. But unlike other projects, Larry did not coat the imperfections with paint; he instead used Ammo Skin paint sealant. He also rejuvenated the tires, while applying some protection.
Source: Ammo NYC, Firehouse Vintage Vehicles