Several individuals possess greater mechanical skill in their little toe than I do in my entire physique. Luckily for us, those individuals derive pleasure from crafting eccentric machinery that astounds their companions and, frequently, the cyberspace. Such is the scenario with the innovator who conceived this 1991 Ford F-150 ramp truck that flexes in the middle, rendering it highly agile in confined areas—at least, in principle.
The vehicle is presently available for purchase on Bring a Trailer, despite being famously listed previously on Facebook Marketplace. It intrigued nearly everyone who scrolled past it, with individuals sharing it across numerous groups I’m a part of. I contemplated writing about it before, but the listing was promptly removed. However, now is the moment where we can all relish it collectively.
Considering this is a unique construction proclaimed by the vendor as a prototype, it was crafted for their towing enterprise with the objective of extracting vehicles from compact parking structures and similar locations. As stated in the ad, it’s “not primarily for recouping vehicles on open roads but more so for utilization in bustling cities [sic].” Why else would one desire a platform that can swivel 25-30 degrees in either direction?
The rear division of the vehicle is linked to the front section via a pivot ring managed by a hydraulic engine. There exists a revolving mechanism of sorts that enables autonomous rotation compared to the cab division. It’s interconnected to a portable remote, allowing the user to operate it within the cab or any suitable location, as long as the cord extends. In addition, the pneumatic suspensions at the rear facilitate the elevation or depression of the ramp bed as per requirements.
Since this functions as an authentic tow truck meant for operational purposes, the loading platform includes rollers, an electronically adjustable track, a winch, and a centered rail guide to ensure itscars in a straight line. The driver also possesses extendable outriggers within reach, in addition to ample lockable compartments. If you feel at ease utilizing this feature and if your local regulations permit, then you could most likely make use of them.
Interestingly, the vehicle remains rear-wheel driven. Initially, power is delivered by a 300-cubic-inch Ford inline-six engine connected to a five-speed manual gearbox. Subsequently, it passes through an eccentric drivetrain that appears to incorporate some form of spherical joint to propel the front rear axle. It’s somewhat challenging to discern the particulars based on the images and description available, but that’s my interpretation.
Via Bring a Trailer
So many peculiarities surround this pickup. Its distinctiveness is evident even from a distance of 30 feet, but upon closer inspection, you might discern an additional quirk. It features seven-lug hubs at the front! These seem to have originated from a ’97 F-250—the model that bore a resemblance to the 10th generation F-150 but boasted slightly heavier-duty specifications. Thankfully, the rear hubs follow a more conventional eight-lug pattern.
If you desire, you have the option to purchase this vehicle. However, the auction concludes on Monday, and the car exhibits corrosion in various areas beneath the chassis and on the rocker panels. Given its origin in Michigan and over 30 years of existence, these signs are unsurprising. Personally, I opt to appreciate it from a distance, perhaps entertaining fantasies of the modifications I would undertake if I possessed greater mechanical aptitude than that of a chimpanzee.
Do you have any insights or queries for the author? Feel free to reach out to them directly: caleb@thedrive.co
