59 ford pick up...what do i need to know

Interested in picking one of these up. What are the problem areas ***ociated with these? The one i'm lookin at has the 223 straight six and 3 on the tree. Looks to be pretty origional minus the new alternator and 12 volt.

Where to check for hidden rust on these?
Is the 223 servicable as a run around truck?
What kind of top speed are we looking at? Interstate?
Safe enough to haul the kid to town?

Thanks in advance!

 

Crawl around and poke at it

 

223 shares a lot with the Y Block. Parts are fairly available for it. My station wagon has a 223 and I have driven it to work almost every day the last 2 years. I have had a few issues and left more than my fair share of oil slicks in parking spots, but it has been pretty good to me.

 

i'm not sure what you're saying/asking here, but a 59 ford was 12 volt negative ground...

the 223 is a decent engine, parts are easy to get and so long as you dont beat it, it'll last you a long time.

no one can answer the question of weather or not its safe for your kid... inspect the front end, steering, suspension and tires. if its safe enough for you, id suspect its ok for kids

 

Look for rust in the lower cowl/front cab mount/door hinge area. Probably won't hit freeway speeds without adding OD or changing gears. Don't think I'd want to till I knew the brakes and running gear were top notch...

 

Thanks, appreciate it.

I know the ins and out of the 47-54 chevys, but the fords are new to me. I appreciate the input. Not looking for buying advice, just wondering where to look for hidden rust etc.

I wasnt aware they were 12V negative ground so thats good to know.

Would it be fair to say the 223 would be comparable to a 235 stovebolt or more like a 216? DO they rev ok without oiling issues? Are they splash oilers or pressurized?

 

comparable to 235, pressure oiling, even spin-on oil filter.
similar top oiling issues, shaft rockers that get too little oil and wear the shaft.
timing chain to cam, rear main journal wears on high mileage, is known to break the crank the the rear main journal.
king pin front end, they are probably in need of replacement, clutch is hydralic/slave set-up.
rust usually on the steps, inside the doors

 

awesome, thank you!