Sometimes I think I’d like to become a long-haul trucker. I understand it’s not the most glamorous job in the world, but still. That’s why I can’t judge the person who built this two-axle Ford “Economac,” currently being offered on Bring a Trailer.
According to the documents, it’s registered as a 1967 Ford, but in reality it contains a massive amount of custom fabrication.
For example, per the auction description, the vehicle rides on a custom-built frame with a 5.8-liter Ford Windsor V8 mounted in the center. This classic pushrod engine sends its roar through two vertical exhaust stacks positioned right behind the cab.
The cab itself is any truck enthusiast’s dream. It tilts forward like a genuine cabover tractor, and inside you’ll find a multitude of switches to control various systems, including the air suspension.
There’s even a long shift lever reminiscent of what you’d see in a real semi. In truth, it operates a four-speed automatic transmission rather than a 13-speed manual.
Only one of the two rear axles is driven, which is to be expected. It uses a Ford 8.8 differential with a Trick Flow cover. Out back is a four-link suspension with a triangular setup, while the front employs MacPherson struts.
Thanks to power steering, this unusual little truck should be very pleasant to drive, and the chrome 17-inch American Racing wheels are sure to draw attention on sunny days.
Other modern conveniences include a custom climate control system. If you have kids or grandkids, they’ll surely be thrilled by the speedometer, which reads up to 140 mph. I’m especially fond of the tachometer with an 8,000-rpm redline. The builder clearly didn’t lack ambition.
In my opinion, this project is far more interesting than the countless attempts to build scaled-down versions of a Peterbilt. I’ve seen those mini rigs where the driver has to squeeze into the cab. Here, the result is a proper weekend toy that’s guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face.
At the time of writing, the high bid stood at $21,000, though it’s unclear whether it has met the reserve. One can be almost certain that at least twice that amount was spent to create this unique six-wheeled Ford Econoline.
