Ford Pickup (1940-1947)

Ford's 1940 pickup introduced a new, more integrated design that would define its pre-war and early post-war trucks. Production paused for World War II between early 1942 and 1945, but the basic truck returned with a horizontally-barred grille that earned it the "jailbar" nickname. Powertrain options included a flathead V8 in two displacements or an inline 6-cylinder engine, offering simple and reliable performance for the era.

Collectors are drawn to these trucks for their iconic styling and straightforward mechanicals. Their body-on-frame construction makes them a popular foundation for everything from period-correct restorations to wild hot rods. An original, unmolested truck is a rare find, but the vast aftermarket support for chassis, suspension, and powertrain upgrades makes them an accessible classic for almost any build style.

The market for these Ford pickups is incredibly broad. Project vehicles can be found for just a few thousand dollars, while nicely restored driver-quality examples often trade in the $25,000 to $45,000 range. Top-tier, professionally built restomods and show-winning customs command the highest prices, sometimes exceeding $150,000. The average sale price sits around $33,000, representing a healthy market for well-sorted trucks.

Prices for 1940-1947 Ford Pickups range from just over $1,000 for projects to more than $160,000 for elite-level custom builds.