Restoring Memories: The Story of a Pristine 1978 Ford F-100

Sometimes, Simple IS Better

Every lover of classic trucks can appreciate a family connection as many inherited their passion from a previous generation. Friends and family shared with them the tradition and brought them into the community. Many have bonded with their F-100s through childhood memories.

Carlo Aracdi of New South Wales, Australia, shares a similar story. In 1978, his parents bought brand new, their Ford F-100 Long Bed. The single cab truck sat three across the bench. His family, however, was made up of his parents and their 6 children. So Carlo and his siblings would sprawl out on a mattress in the bed of the Ford truck. All eight of the Aracdis made many of their best memories in the ’78 Ford. When Carlo’s father passed away, he left him the truck. It had seen more than its fair share of use and work over the years, but Carlo felt a special connection to the truck—or rather, the truck served as a tangible connection to his father. The Ford is a sacrament to his family, and he took the opportunity to rebuild the Ford as a proper tribute, one he could spend every weekend cruising down the highway.

Carlo’s gorgeous family truck had been well worn but, by and large, preserved. The frame was in good shape, requiring only minimal repair and clean up. The truck was first completely stripped down. The necessary rust repairs on the frame and cab were completed in a single pass. After the frame had been reinforced, it was protected with a durable gloss black finish. The suspension was likewise refreshed and lowered with DJM Suspension. DJM’s drop beam kit and lowering springs hunker down the truck’s front. DJM drop spring hangers, leaf springs and lowering shocks from Pedders sit out back. The truck now boasts an aggressive stance that maintains the original visual presence. The modest lowered look works in perfectly with the proportions of the long bed.

Carlo’s gorgeous family truck had been well worn but, by and large, preserved. The frame was in good shape, requiring only minimal repair and clean up.”

Carlo’s first plan of action when resurrecting his father’s truck was to address to the motor. In 1977, Ford began to apply their newer 351 Cleveland motor to their full lineup of trucks in the United States. In Australia, however, 351C was not used until 1978, when it was only paired with the F-250 and F-350. Ford’s 302C motor continued to power the F-100 series. Carlo, upon rebuilding his Ford, opted for the larger 351C. Local legend BG Engines rebuilt the 5.8L V-8. BG fitted the enginge with alloy heads, an Edelbrock intake and custom stainless headers. The motor is accessorized with a host of badass Aeroflow fittings and billet bracketry. A c6 automatic transmission and 8-inch rear end back the motor.

The F-100’s timeless curb appeal is a combined effort involving the stance, paint and choice of wheels. The wheels go the extra mile to tell the truck’s story of passion and custom makings. American Racing Wheels 5-spoke Torq Thrusts sit in a staggered arrangement. In the front, the wheels measure 20×8.5 inches. They are wrapped in Pirelli 245/35/20 tires. The rears are 20×10 inches and use a 275-series tire of the same make. The fully polished finish is unparalleled in its classic look. As Carlo’s plan was to maintain the original look and style of his father’s truck, the AR Torq-Thrusts were a perfect choice.

Carlo had no intention of altering the exterior elements of his inherited Ford. The ’78 by today’s standards strikes a beautiful balance of classic and modern. The retro-cool vibes are occur naturally and are best left to their own style. To maximize the effect, Carlo did opt to replace several of the body panels. The hood, front fenders, bed-sides and tailgate were all recouped. Originally, the long bed was set to be ditched altogether in favor of a flat-bed. The cab first received extensive metal work and repair. Carlo, thrilled with the results, decided to extend the repairs to the bed as well. With the majority of the body having been replaced, the truck was smoothed and body-worked to perfection. Image Conversion completed the process. They finished the truck with a luxurious coating of Cromax Candy Sol Red. The glimmering crimson helped to establish the whole styling direction of the truck. The repolished chrome bumpers, headlight bezel and custom billet grille insert complete to look.

Black never goes out of style. For that reason, Carlo chose an all-black interior overhaul. The stock seats were retrimmed in black leather. Black suede extends over the dash. Fresh black carpet stretches over the floor. With the new-found comfort of the interior, Carlo updated the user experience. The center of the dash now houses a Clarion DVD head unit. The unit sends sound to dual Kicker amplifiers, Kicker 2-way mid speakers and twin Kicker slim line subwoofers. The sound system is more than enough to rattle the cabin.

Carlo set out with a simple yet powerful mission: to rebuild his father’s truck and preserve the memories his family had spent a lifetime building. He teamed up with some of the most capable local shops in New South Wales. Together they produced a custom classic. The build preserves the original beauty, accentuates the classic styling and supports its modern use. Carlo’s ’78 is a stunning example of how to keep it simple. Everything from the static stance refreshed 351, polished wheels and stunning paint contribute to the goal. The sum is a perfectly executed plan. Carlo’s truck will serve him for decades to come, as it did his parents, and likely will his children.

[divider] TECH SPECS [/divider]

CARLO ARACDI
1978 Ford F-100
Kurrajon, NSW, Australia

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
• Stock frame, repaired and painted
• DJM drop beams, lowering springs
• DJM leaf hangers, leafs
• Pedders shocks

POWERTRAIN
• Ford 351 Cleveland 5.8L V-8
• Alloy heads
• Edelbrock intake manifold
• Custom stainless headers
• C6 automatic transmission
• Ford 8-inch rear end

WHEELS & TIRES
• American Racing wheels Polished torqe thrusts
• 20×8.5 inches and 20×10 inches
• Pirelli 245/35/20 and 275/35/20 tires

BODY & PAINT
• Replaced hood, front fenders, bedsides
• Custom painted Cromax Candy Sol Red
• Repolished bumpers, headlight bezels
• Billet grille insert

INTERIOR & STEREO
• OEM interior, retrimmed
• Black leather bench seat
• Black suede dash
• Custom black carpet
• Clarion DVD head unit
• Kicker mid speakers
• Kick slim line subwoofers
• Kicker amplifiers
• Billet grille insert

Special Thanks From the Owner: “l’d like to highly thank Mick and Matt from Image Conversions, Bill from Hytone Motor Trimming, Damo and Mick from BG Engines, Grizzly Kustoms and a big thanks to my boys and my son Billy for helping me organize the build and assembly.”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Estimated Cost to Replicate the F-100 Eluminator?

Though the project insiders won’t officially disclose the exact cost, it is feasible to replicate the F-100 Eluminator. According to a Ford Performance engineer, the computer files needed to recreate the chassis are available. Your primary tasks would include sourcing an appropriate Mach-E—perhaps a slightly damaged one—and an F-100.

As for the financial commitment, it would be substantial but not astronomical. The engineer hints that the total cost would be in the range typically associated with high-end McLaren models, rather than the ultra-luxury bracket of Bugatti vehicles. This places the estimate somewhere within a few hundred thousand dollars, striking a balance between exclusivity and attainability for serious automotive enthusiasts.

How does the F-100 Eluminator compare to the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E4x GT Performance and the 2021 Ford F-150 Lariat Sport 4×4 PowerBoost?

Comparison Overview: F-100 Eluminator vs. 2021 Mustang Mach-E4x GT Performance vs. 2021 F-150 Lariat Sport 4×4 PowerBoost

Powertrain and Chassis

• Drivetrain Layout: The F-100 Eluminator and the Mach-E4x both feature an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup with motors on both the front and rear axles. In contrast, the F-150 PowerBoost uses a front-engine, four-wheel-drive (4WD) system.
• Engine Type: Both the Eluminator and the Mach-E4x are powered by permanent-magnet electric motors, whereas the F-150 PowerBoost combines a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor, collectively producing 430 horsepower.

Performance Metrics

• Power and Torque: The electric models (Eluminator and Mach-E4x) both deliver 480 horsepower and 634 lb-ft of torque. The F-150, while slightly lower in horsepower at 430 hp, provides robust torque at 570 lb-ft.
• Weight to Power Ratio: The Mach-E4x stands out with a ratio of 10.4 lb/hp, slightly better than the F-100’s 10.7 lb/hp. The F-150 lags behind with 13.6 lb/hp, partly due to its heavier build.
• Transmission: Both electric models utilize a 1-speed automatic transmission, optimized for seamless electric power delivery. The F-150, however, features a more traditional 10-speed automatic transmission.

Dimensions and Capacity

• Wheelbase and Size: The F-100 and Mach-E4x are relatively compact with wheelbases of 116.8 and 117.5 inches, respectively. The F-150 is significantly larger, boasting a wheelbase of 145.4 inches and overall dimensions of 231.7 x 79.9 x 77.2 inches.
• Curb Weight: The Mach-E4x is the lightest at 4,980 pounds, followed closely by the F-100 at 5,140 pounds. The F-150 is substantially heavier at 5,832 pounds.
• Seating Capacity: The F-100 is a two-seater, while the Mach-E4x and F-150 both offer seating for five.

Acceleration and Braking

• Acceleration: The electrics shine in acceleration, with the Mach-E4x hitting 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and the F-100 in 3.9 seconds. The F-150, although respectable for a hybrid, takes 5.3 seconds.
• Braking: The F-100 achieves the shortest stopping distance from 60-0 mph at 102 feet. The Mach-E4x is close behind at 105 feet, while the F-150 requires 136 feet.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

• Fuel Capacity and Range: The electric models both feature an 88 kWh battery. The Mach-E4x offers a superior EPA range of 260 miles compared to the F-100’s estimated 200 miles. The F-150, with its hybrid setup, offers an impressive 734 miles of combined range thanks to its large fuel tank and small electric motor.
• EPA Ratings: The Mach-E4x leads with an EPA rating of 88/75/82 mpg-e, while the F-150 boasts 24 mpg across the board. The F-100’s EPA ratings are not yet available, but it’s expected to fall near the Mach-E4x due to similar electric configurations.

Cost Analysis

• Pricing: The F-100 Eluminator comes with an estimated base price of $500,000, making it a premium, perhaps even niche choice. The Mach-E4x starts at a relatively affordable $61,000, and the F-150 begins at $58,490. When fully equipped, the prices rise to $500,000 (est), $69,800, and $64,760, respectively.

Conclusion

The F-100 Eluminator and the Mach-E4x offer a compelling case for electric performance, delivering high power and acceleration with impressive drivetrain technology. The Mach-E4x stands out with a better weight-to-power ratio and higher range, making it a more practical but still exciting option. Meanwhile, the F-150 PowerBoost blends traditional powerhouse V6 performance with hybrid efficiency, making it suitable for those needing both power and extensive range.

What is the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator?

The 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator is a groundbreaking concept vehicle that merges classic design with modern electric technology. Conceptualized to promote electric and hybrid technologies, the Eluminator showcases a seamless blend of nostalgia and innovation.

Key Features:

• Classic Aesthetic: The bodywork of the Eluminator is based on the vintage 1978 Ford F-100 pickup, preserving its iconic charm.
• Modern Powertrain: Under the hood, it features an electric powertrain sourced from the Mustang Mach-E GT, emphasizing performance and eco-friendliness.
• Electric “Crate Motor”: The vehicle uses the Eluminator electric crate motor, a high-performance unit tailored for both enthusiasts and custom vehicle builders.
• Battery Electric System: Equipped with a state-of-the-art battery electric system, the Eluminator aims to deliver a smooth, quiet, and efficient driving experience.
• Combining Suspension Technologies: To handle the demands of an electric powertrain, the vehicle uses the basic suspension components from the Mustang Mach-E GT, ensuring modern ride comfort and handling.

This concept is part of a broader strategy that differentiates between electric and combustion-powered divisions, signifying a robust commitment to electric vehicles.

Why It Matters:

The 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator is more than just a showpiece; it’s a tangible example of how classic vehicles can be revitalized with electric power. This combination aims to attract both vintage car enthusiasts and modern tech aficionados, showcasing the potential for electric vehicles beyond contemporary design frameworks.

What are the specifications of the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator?

Sure, let’s dive into the specifications of the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator EV.

1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator EV Specifications

Price and Layout

• Estimated Cost:$500,000 (replication estimate)
• Layout:Front and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD)
• Seating and Doors:Two-passenger, two-door truck

Motor and Performance

• Motor Type:Permanent-magnet electric
• Total Power:480 horsepower
• Total Torque:634 lb-ft
• Transmission:Single-speed automatic

Dimensions and Weight

• Curb Weight:5,140 pounds (distributed 52% front, 48% rear)
• Wheelbase:8 inches
• Overall Dimensions:
  • Length:1 inches
  • Width:0 inches
  • Height:5 inches

Acceleration and Braking

• 0-60 MPH:9 seconds
• Quarter Mile:0 seconds @ 95.7 mph
• Braking Distance (60-0 MPH):102 feet

Fuel Economy and Range

• EPA Fuel Economy Ratings:Not rated
• Estimated Range:200 miles on a full charge

Availability

• Potential Availability:Could be a star at a future Mecum auction

This iconic electric truck combines classic design with modern performance, making it a unique addition to any collection.

What Would It Take to Build Another F-100 Eluminator?

Creating another F-100 Eluminator is indeed possible, though it’s a project that requires significant resources and expertise. Here’s a detailed look at what you would need:

1. Access to Design and Technical Files

The blueprint for the chassis and other essential components are digitally preserved. You would need to obtain these computer files to accurately reproduce the vehicle.

2. Sourcing the Right Vehicles

Finding a suitable base for your build is crucial. You will need:

• An F-100: This classic truck will form the foundation of your project. Ideally, it should be in good condition or lightly damaged.
• A Mach-E: Specifically, an electric model to supply the necessary components and powertrain.

3. Custom Assembly

The assembly process combines parts from both vehicles. This involves extensive custom work, including:

• Chassis modification: Tailoring the frame to accommodate the electric components.
• Electrical integration: Ensuring the electric drivetrain and battery systems work seamlessly with the F-100’s body.

4. Skilled Workforce

Assembling an F-100 Eluminator demands expertise in both vintage car restoration and modern electric vehicle technology. You’ll need:

• Engineers: To handle the sophisticated integration of components.
• Technicians: For the meticulous work of assembling and fitting parts.

5. Financial Investment

The project won’t come cheap. While it’s not as costly as building a supercar like a Bugatti, the investment is substantial, paralleling the budget required for high-end sports cars:

• Parts and materials: Quality components for restoration and modification.
• Labor costs: Skilled labor comes at a premium, given the specialized knowledge required.
• Unexpected expenses: Always budget for unforeseen challenges that may arise.

In Summary

Building another F-100 Eluminator is a complex but achievable endeavor for those with the necessary resources and expertise. From obtaining design blueprints to sourcing vehicles and managing a skilled team, the project demands both time and a considerable financial commitment.

What are the pros and cons of the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator?

Pros and Cons of the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminator

Pros

• Impressive Performance: This classic truck has been electrified, offering impressive acceleration that rivals modern EVs.
• Retro Charm: The F-100 Eluminator maintains its timeless aesthetic, appealing to both vintage car lovers and new-age enthusiasts.
• Eco-Friendly: Equipped with an electric powertrain, it boasts zero emissions, making it an eco-conscious choice.

Cons

• Stiffer Ride: The suspension is on the firmer side, which might result in a somewhat uncomfortable ride over rough terrain.
• Noise Levels: While electric vehicles are generally quieter, this model could have noticeable wind noise at higher speeds.
• Availability: Due to limited production and high demand, finding one for purchase can be quite challenging.

By meticulously updating this classic with modern electric vehicle technology, the 1978 Ford F-100 Eluminatoroffers a unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary eco-friendliness. However, potential buyers should be aware of the ride quality and the challenges in actually obtaining one.

What is it Like to Drive the F-100 Eluminator?

Driving the F-100 Eluminator feels like stepping into a seamless blend of past and future. First off, the ride quality is impressively smooth, albeit slightly on the lively side. Remarkably, it feels far more solid and put-together than its 1978 predecessor, with fewer rattles and squeaks.

Modern Handling with Classic Soul

The truck’s steering features a smaller, more responsive wheel and electric power steering that make maneuvering effortless compared to vintage pickups. The chassis and fully independent suspension are both modern marvels, offering a level of responsiveness and stability unmatched by the older Twin I-Beam front and live-axle rear setups.

Nostalgic Elements

Despite all these updates, the F-100 Eluminator retains its period-correct charm in quirky, endearing ways. You’ll notice:

• Door hinges that still squeak.
• Vent-wing windows that let in a fair bit of wind noise.
• A hood that takes some effort to open, revealing a space (we used frequently due to the bed’s lack of tie-downs).

Inside the Cabin

Inside, the cabin has been significantly upgraded. Modern seats, an advanced console, a sophisticated instrument cluster, and a high-tech infotainment system make long drives enjoyable. Over a 200-mile journey, the comfort was consistently impressive, although there were a few technical hiccups. For instance:

• GPS and navigation systems were unreliable due to some onboard interference.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning were non-functional as sensors couldn’t be recalibrated in time.

However, even with these minor inconveniences, the F-100 Eluminator offers a compelling drive experience. It’s a testament to how well classic charm and modern-tech can coexist on the road.

How Did Ford Performance Build the F-100 Eluminator?

Conceptualization and Collaboration

Ford Performance</Ford Performance> set out to build a project vehicle that combined the nostalgia of a classic truck with modern electric vehicle technology. The initial brainstorming session included collaboration with McCue-Lane Electric Race Cars (MLe), known for their expertise in electric drag racers. Inspired by the Ford F-100, MLe suggested partnering with a custom pickup specialist, the Roadster Shop.

Design and Engineering

The Roadster Shop had already digitized an F-100, making them an ideal partner. Upon receiving the Mach-E GT front and rear powertrain modules and battery pack, they began designing a compatible frame. This custom frame had to integrate various mounting locations from both the Mach-E components and the F-100 pickup body.

Custom Frame Construction

The end product was a custom, CNC laser-cut, 10-gauge steel boxed frame that preserved the original Mach-E suspension geometry. Additionally, the frame included several playful design elements, like hidden Roadster Shoplogos. Interestingly, the close match in wheelbases between the Mach-E and the F-100—a difference of less than half an inch—greatly facilitated the integration.

Final Assembly and Calibration

MLe handled the final assembly, along with the integration and calibration of the electric powertrain. They ensured all components worked harmoniously. Ford Performance</Ford Performance> took over the last phase, focusing on suspension calibration. They opted for Mach-E front struts with custom spring perches to allow for ride-height adjustments, paired with Roadster Shop rear coil-over dampers featuring Fox internal components. The goal was to create a smooth, comfortable ride rather than a high-performance, race-ready suspension.

In summary, the F-100 Eluminator was a product of creative collaboration, meticulous engineering, and intricate calibration, merging vintage charm with cutting-edge electric performance.

How quick is the F-100 Eluminator compared to other Ford pickups?

The F-100 Eluminator stands out for its impressive acceleration, comparable to the Mach-E GT in terms of launch speed. The finely tuned suspension allows the truck to deliver strong performance right off the line, maintaining this pace consistently across various conditions.

Acceleration Testing

• Launch Techniques:The vehicle demonstrated consistent results whether torque was built against the brakes or the accelerator was dropped without braking. It even performed reliably across different surfaces.
• Consistent Performance:Variations in launch times were minimal, only fluctuating by a few tenths of a second.

Performance Metrics

• Weight Comparison:Weighing just a bit more—160 pounds—than the Mach-E4x GT with the Performance package, the F-100 Eluminator showcases a similar performance up to 40 mph.
• Speed Dynamics:While both vehicles feature nearly identical gearing and tire dimensions, the aerodynamics start to play a larger role at higher speeds. Up to 40 mph, they are nearly neck and neck. However, by 60 mph, the F-100 Eluminator trails slightly, and the gap widens to 4.5 seconds by the time they hit 100 mph.

Summary

In essence, the F-100 Eluminator holds its own remarkably well against other high-performance pickups, especially in terms of initial acceleration. Its performance is solid and reliable, though aerodynamics might affect its speed over longer distances compared to more streamlined models.

Does the F-100 Eluminator Perform Like a Mustang Mach-E GT Pickup?

The F-100 Eluminator definitely puts on a show reminiscent of a Mustang Mach-E GT pickup. Here’s how:

1. Launch Dynamics: The suspension is meticulously tuned for optimal launch performance, allowing the vehicle to squat substantially, thus delivering a robust and consistent acceleration. Whether you build torque against the brakes or simply drop the accelerator, the results are impressively consistent, with variations of only a few tenths of a second—making it a superb contender for bracket racing.
2. Weight and Gearing: Despite weighing just 160 pounds more than a similarly configured Mach-E GT, the F-100 Eluminator uses identical gearing. The similar tire diameters between the two vehicles also contribute to their comparable performance.
3. Speed Comparison: Up to 40 mph, both vehicles perform neck-and-neck. However, as speed increases, the aerodynamic design of the F-100 Eluminator—being less sleek—starts to become a noticeable factor. This disparity causes a slight lag, stretching to a 0.3 second difference by 60 mph and up to 4.5 seconds by the time they reach 100 mph.

In summary, while the F-100 Eluminator demonstrates performance characteristics akin to a Mustang Mach-E GTpickup, especially at lower speeds, it experiences more drag at higher velocities, leading to minor but notable differences in performance.

How Much Does a 1978 Ford F100 Cost?

If you’re in the market for a 1978 Ford F100, understanding the price range is crucial. These classic trucks generally start around $7,500, with prices escalating up to approximately $32,500. The average cost hovers near $19,000.

However, several factors can influence the final price:

• Condition: Trucks in pristine condition, especially those with original parts, will command higher prices.
• Features: Any added features or customizations can significantly impact the price tag.
• Mileage: Lower mileage typically means a higher selling price.

When seeking the best deal, consider these elements carefully. Comparing listings across various marketplaces, like Hemmings or ClassicCars.com, can also provide a broader scope of pricing and available options.

What is the average price of a 1978 Ford F100?

When searching for a 1978 Ford F100, you can expect the average price to hover around $19,088. However, keep in mind that several factors can influence this price point.

Key considerations include:

• Features: Special modifications or rare options could increase the price.
• Condition: A well-maintained vehicle often commands a higher price.
• Mileage: Lower mileage typically adds to the vehicle’s value.

By evaluating these aspects, you can find the best deal that aligns with your budget and preferences.

What factors should be considered when finding the best deal on a 1978 Ford F100?

When searching for the best deal on a 1978 Ford F100, there are several important factors to consider. Here’s a closer look at what should be evaluated:

Vehicle Condition

• Exterior and Interior Status: Inspect for rust, paint quality, dents, and any signs of previous accidents. Inside, check the upholstery, dashboard, and overall cleanliness.
• Mechanical Health: Ensure the engine runs smoothly and check for any leaks or abnormal noises.

Mileage

• Odometer Reading: Lower mileage often indicates less wear, but it’s essential to cross-reference with maintenance records to verify the vehicle’s history.

Features and Specifications

• Original vs. Modified Parts: Determine whether the truck has maintained its original parts or if modifications have been made, which can affect both value and performance.
• Installed Features: Evaluate any additional features or upgrades, such as air conditioning, stereo systems, or custom wheels.

Market Pricing

• Comparative Pricing: Analyze current market prices for similar trucks to ensure the asking price aligns with the vehicle’s condition and features.
• Historical Pricing Trends: Understanding how prices have fluctuated over time can guide in identifying a fair deal.

Documentation and Paperwork

• Ownership Records: Verify the authenticity of the title and previous ownership history.
• Service Records: Detailed logs of maintenance and repairs can provide peace of mind about the vehicle’s upkeep.

By thoroughly investigating these elements, you’ll be better equipped to find a 1978 Ford F100 that fits both your needs and budget.

What trims of the 1978 Ford F100 are available for sale?

Available 1978 Ford F100 Trims for Sale

Looking for a vintage ride? Check out the different options from the 1978 Ford F100 lineup currently available:

• 2WD Regular Cab: Dive into nostalgia with this classic two-wheel-drive option, perfectly crafted for those who appreciate traditional trucks.

Explore these trims and find the one that speaks to your style and needs. Whether you’re a collector or just love classic trucks, there’s something unique about this 1978 model.