Restomod builders abide by a few unspoken guidelines. First, it’s a common belief that given enough time, every car will eventually undergo an LS swap. Second, opting for anything other than a Ford nine-inch rear end is often seen as amateurish. And third, there’s a general consensus against installing a Japanese engine in an old American car. While many enthusiasts flout this last rule, few execute it with the finesse of the 1937 Ford Model 77 half-ton truck.
Back in the day, Ford’s cars and trucks shared similar engines and chassis, with the 1937 Ford Sedan and half-ton truck both featuring the same basic powertrain. Equipped with either a 136 cubic inch (2.2 L) or a 221 cubic inch (3.3-L) Ford Flathead V8, these early pickups boasted respectable low-end torque and sturdy chassis, perfect for heavy-duty work.
Paired with a Toyota A341 four-speed transmission sourced from vehicles like the Lexus LS400 and Toyota Sequoia, the drivetrain of this Ford truck is robust enough to handle the increased power output for years to come, ensuring trouble-free performance.
Visually, the truck maintains its American roots, with glossy red body paint, contrasting black fenders, and Foose alloy wheels. The exterior gives no hint of the Japanese engine lurking beneath the hood. Priced at $42,000, this truck offers a unique blend of classic American style and modern Japanese engineering a true gem for any discerning collector.