I purchased my 65 Ford Ranchero more or less on a whim back in early 2011. I was actually unaware of this model at the time, having been searching for an El Camino when I came across it (I don’t have an extraordinary amount of brand loyalty). Although I often favor Ford, I choose my purchases based on what I’m looking to achieve at the time, what is available and at what price.

Anyway…I wanted a simple, reliable and economical motorcycle transport vehicle, and both the El Camino/Ranchero fit that bill. But I muuuch prefer the look of the 64-65 generation of Rancheros than any of the Camino/Ranchero alternatives.

So I went to look at this Ranchero with that in mind, and what I found was everything but. When I reluctantly purchased it, the poor thing was dilapidated, neglected and had cancerous rust throughout. I don’t know why I bought it, but I did.

Below are some various photos taken at random stages of the restoration process. I’ll organize them later.