Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Owning a Custom Dream Machine

Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Owning a Custom Dream Machine cars.truckstrend.com

The automotive world is replete with unique vehicles, but few capture the essence of American hot-rodding and custom craftsmanship quite like a Factory Five creation. While Factory Five Racing is renowned for its iconic Cobra replicas and ’33 Hot Rods, their lesser-known, yet equally captivating, ’35 Hot Rod Truck offers a distinct blend of classic utility and high-performance thrills. These aren’t mass-produced pickups; rather, they are meticulously assembled kit cars, each a testament to individual passion and skill. For enthusiasts seeking a bespoke vehicle that stands out from the crowd, exploring the market for Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale presents an exciting opportunity to acquire a unique, pre-built custom without the extensive time commitment of building one from scratch. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about navigating this specialized market, from understanding what these trucks are to making an informed purchase.

What Exactly Are Factory Five Trucks?

Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale: Your Comprehensive Guide to Owning a Custom Dream Machine

To clarify, Factory Five Racing (FFR) does not produce complete, factory-assembled trucks in the traditional sense. Instead, they manufacture high-quality, component-based kits that allow individuals to build their own vehicles. When we talk about "Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale," we are almost exclusively referring to completed versions of their ’35 Hot Rod Truck kit.

The ’35 Hot Rod Truck kit is designed to evoke the classic lines of 1930s-era pickups while incorporating modern performance, safety, and comfort features. Builders source a donor vehicle (often a Ford Mustang for its engine, transmission, and suspension components) or purchase new parts, then assemble the FFR chassis, body, and interior. The result is a lightweight, powerful, and distinctive vehicle that can be anything from a show-stopping cruiser to a formidable street machine. Each completed truck is unique, reflecting the builder’s vision, budget, and skill level, making the used market a fascinating treasure hunt for custom automotive art.

Why Consider Buying a Used Factory Five Truck?

Opting for a pre-built Factory Five truck offers several compelling advantages over purchasing a new kit and building it yourself:

• Immediate Gratification: The most obvious benefit is bypassing the extensive build time, which can range from hundreds to thousands of hours. A used truck means you can drive your dream vehicle home today.
• Cost Savings: While the initial kit price is attractive, the total cost of a new build, including donor parts, custom components, paint, interior, and tools, can easily escalate. A used truck often represents significant savings, as the previous owner has absorbed much of the initial depreciation and build cost.
• Proven Performance: A completed and driven truck has had its systems tested and refined. Any initial build kinks or issues have likely been ironed out, offering a more reliable starting point.



• Known Quantity: You can visually inspect the quality of the build, the fit and finish, and the components used, rather than relying on hypothetical outcomes.
• Unique Customization: Each Factory Five truck is a bespoke creation. Buying used allows you to acquire a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle with specific modifications, engine choices, and aesthetic touches that might perfectly align with your taste.
• Reduced Complexity: Navigating title and registration for a kit car can be complex in some states. A pre-registered and titled used truck simplifies this process considerably.

Key Considerations Before You Buy

Purchasing a used Factory Five truck requires a different approach than buying a traditional used car. Given their custom nature, thorough due diligence is paramount.

1. Build Quality Assessment: This is the most critical factor. Since these are owner-built, quality can vary wildly. Look for clean welds, tidy wiring, proper panel gaps, quality paintwork, and a well-finished interior. A professional pre-purchase inspection by someone familiar with custom cars is highly recommended.
2. Donor Vehicle Components: Understand what donor vehicle (if any) was used and what components were retained. Most Factory Five builds utilize Ford Mustang components (engine, transmission, rear end, suspension). Knowing the year and model of the donor helps with future parts sourcing and understanding performance characteristics.
3. Engine and Drivetrain: Inquire about the engine (e.g., Ford 302, 351, Coyote, modular V8), transmission (manual or automatic), and rear differential. Ask about mileage on these components, any performance upgrades, and maintenance history.
4. Suspension and Brakes: Verify the type of suspension (e.g., independent rear suspension vs. solid axle) and brake system (disc all around?). Upgraded brakes are common and desirable.
5. Electrical System: Inspect the wiring for neatness, proper routing, and secure connections. Sloppy wiring can lead to endless headaches.
6. Documentation: Request all build receipts, manuals, and records. This documentation is invaluable for understanding the truck’s history, components, and for future maintenance. Crucially, verify the title and registration. Ensure it’s correctly titled as a "kit car," "assembled vehicle," or similar, and that it’s street legal in your state.
7. Seller’s Reputation and Reason for Selling: Try to understand why the seller is parting with the truck. Was it a passion project they’ve completed, or are there underlying issues? A reputable seller will be transparent and provide extensive details.

Where to Find Used Factory Five Trucks

The market for these niche vehicles isn’t found on typical used car lots. Here are the best places to look:

• Factory Five Racing Forums & Classifieds: The official Factory Five forum (www.ffcars.com) has dedicated "Cars For Sale" sections. This is often the first place builders list their completed projects.
• Specialty Kit Car Classifieds: Websites like RacingJunk.com, CobraCountry.com (which often lists FFR vehicles), and sometimes even eBay Motors or Craigslist (with specific search terms like "Factory Five Truck" or "FFR ’35 Hot Rod") can yield results.
• Online Auction Sites: Bring a Trailer and Cars & Bids occasionally feature well-documented Factory Five builds, offering a transparent bidding process and detailed photos.
• Word of Mouth & Car Shows: Attending local hot rod shows, kit car gatherings, or contacting local car clubs can sometimes lead to direct connections with owners looking to sell.

Inspecting Your Potential Purchase: A Practical Checklist

Once you’ve found a promising candidate, a thorough inspection is crucial. If possible, bring a knowledgeable friend or professional mechanic.

• Exterior:
  • Paint Quality: Look for orange peel, overspray, chips, cracks, and consistency. High-quality paint is expensive.
  • Body Panels: Check for proper fitment, consistent gaps, and alignment.
  • Chassis: Inspect for rust, damage, or signs of improper repair.
  • Wheels & Tires: Note tire age and condition, and check for curb rash on wheels.
• Interior:
  • Upholstery: Look for rips, tears, or excessive wear.
  • Dash & Gauges: Ensure all gauges work, and wiring is neat.
  • Seating Position: Test fit – ensure you are comfortable, as adjustments can be limited.
• Under the Hood:
  • Engine Bay: Look for cleanliness, organized wiring, and secure hoses.
  • Fluid Leaks: Check for oil, coolant, or power steering fluid leaks.
  • Belts & Hoses: Inspect their condition.
  • Exhaust System: Check for rust, leaks, or damage.
• Underneath the Truck:
  • Suspension Components: Look for worn bushings, bent components, or leaks from shocks.
  • Brake Lines & Calipers: Check for leaks, rust, or damage.
  • Drivetrain: Inspect universal joints, driveshaft, and differential for leaks or excessive play.
• Test Drive:
  • Start-up: Listen for unusual noises, check warning lights.
  • Steering: Should be precise, no excessive play.
  • Braking: Firm pedal, no pulling or grinding.
  • Acceleration: Smooth, strong power delivery, no hesitation.
  • Transmission: Smooth shifts, no slipping (automatic) or grinding (manual).
  • Noises: Listen for rattles, squeaks, clunks, or hums that indicate issues.

Valuation and Pricing Factors

Pricing for used Factory Five trucks varies significantly due to their custom nature. Several factors influence the asking price:

• Quality of Build: A professionally built, show-quality truck will command a premium over a backyard build with less attention to detail.
• Component Specification:
  • Engine: A modern Ford Coyote V8 will fetch more than a carbureted 302. High-performance upgrades (superchargers, turbos) increase value.
  • Transmission: Manual transmissions often preferred, but high-performance automatics are also valued.
  • Suspension: Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) is generally more desirable than a solid axle. High-end coilovers add value.
  • Brakes: Performance brake kits (e.g., Wilwood, Brembo) are a plus.
• Paint and Bodywork: A flawless, multi-stage paint job is a major value driver.
• Interior: Custom leather, high-end gauges, and quality sound systems contribute to value.
• Mileage: Lower mileage on the completed build typically means higher value, assuming it’s been driven enough to sort out issues.
• Documentation: Comprehensive build logs and receipts add credibility and value.
• Title/Registration: A clear, legal title simplifies the transfer and increases confidence.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Even with careful inspection, owning a custom vehicle can present unique challenges:

• Registration Hurdles: Some states have stricter rules for registering kit cars. Ensure the seller provides all necessary documentation for title transfer. Research your state’s specific requirements beforehand.
• Finding Parts: While many components are off-the-shelf Ford Mustang parts, some custom bits or specific FFR components might require ordering directly from Factory Five or specialty suppliers.
• Specialized Mechanics: Not every mechanic is comfortable working on a highly customized vehicle. Building a relationship with a local hot rod shop or a mechanic experienced with custom builds is advisable.
• Insurance: Standard insurance companies may not fully understand or appropriately value a kit car. Seek out specialty insurance providers (e.g., Hagerty, Grundy) who offer agreed-value policies for custom and classic vehicles.
• Unexpected Issues: Despite thorough inspection, a custom build can still present quirks. Be prepared for ongoing tinkering and maintenance, which is often part of the enjoyment of owning such a vehicle.

Practical Advice and Actionable Insights

• Define Your Budget: Not just for the purchase price, but also for insurance, maintenance, potential upgrades, and any initial sorting that might be needed.
• Do Your Homework: Read forums, watch build videos, and understand the nuances of Factory Five builds before you even start looking.
• Connect with the Community: The Factory Five community is incredibly helpful. Join forums, ask questions, and leverage the collective knowledge.
• Don’t Rush: The right truck will come along. Be patient and don’t compromise on key criteria.
• Get it Inspected: This cannot be stressed enough. A pre-purchase inspection is a small investment that can save you thousands down the line.
• Negotiate Wisely: Understand the market value based on similar builds and be prepared to negotiate based on your inspection findings.

Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale: Estimated Price Ranges

It’s important to note that these are estimated ranges for completed, running, and titled Factory Five ’35 Hot Rod Trucks. The exact price will vary significantly based on the factors detailed above (engine, components, build quality, paint, interior, builder reputation, and market demand).

Category	Estimated Price Range (USD)	Key Differentiating Factors
Entry-Level Driver	$25,000 – $40,000	Basic build quality, older donor components (e.g., carbureted 302, T5 transmission), decent but not show-quality paint, functional interior, solid axle rear. May have higher mileage or minor cosmetic flaws. Good for a first-time owner or someone looking for a project to upgrade.
Mid-Range Performer	$40,000 – $65,000	Good build quality, fuel-injected V8 (e.g., 5.0L HO, 4.6L modular, or mild 351W), upgraded suspension (possibly IRS), good quality paint, comfortable interior with some custom touches. Well-sorted mechanically. Ideal for regular driving and car shows.
High-End Custom Build	$65,000 – $90,000+	Excellent to show-quality build, modern high-performance engine (e.g., Ford Coyote 5.0L, supercharged 4.6L), TKO or T-56 manual transmission, independent rear suspension, premium braking system, flawless multi-stage paint, custom high-end interior (leather, custom gauges, sound system), extensive custom fabrication. Often built by professional shops or highly skilled amateurs.

Note: These prices do not include shipping, taxes, registration, or post-purchase modifications/maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are Factory Five trucks street legal?
A1: Yes, when properly built and registered, Factory Five trucks are street legal. The specific process for titling and registering a kit car varies by state, but reputable builders ensure they meet the necessary requirements. Always confirm the vehicle has a clear title and is registered according to your local laws.

Q2: Are parts hard to find for Factory Five trucks?
A2: Most major mechanical components (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes) come from common donor vehicles, primarily Ford Mustangs. This makes sourcing replacement parts relatively easy. Factory Five also sells specific chassis and body components directly. Custom or unique parts might require more effort to source, but the robust aftermarket for hot rod components helps.

Q3: Can I get insurance for a Factory Five truck?
A3: Yes, but it’s crucial to use a specialty insurance provider (e.g., Hagerty, Grundy, American Modern) that understands and values custom and kit cars. They typically offer "agreed value" policies, ensuring you’re covered for the true value of your unique build, rather than a depreciated market value.

Q4: How do Factory Five trucks handle and perform?
A4: Performance varies greatly depending on the engine, suspension, and gearing. However, due to their lightweight construction and modern underpinnings, even a modest V8 can make a Factory Five truck incredibly quick. They offer a raw, engaging driving experience with excellent power-to-weight ratios, spirited acceleration, and responsive handling, especially with upgraded suspension.

Q5: What’s the difference between buying a new Factory Five kit and a used one?
A5: Buying a new kit means you build the truck from the ground up, allowing for complete customization and the satisfaction of creation. It requires significant time, tools, and mechanical aptitude. Buying used means the truck is already completed, saving you hundreds or thousands of hours and often money, but you’re purchasing someone else’s vision and build quality.

Q6: What should I look for in the title/registration when buying a used Factory Five truck?
A6: Ensure the title clearly states the vehicle is a "kit car," "assembled vehicle," "special construction," or similar, rather than trying to pass it off as an original Ford. This indicates it has gone through the proper state inspection and registration process for custom builds, preventing future legal headaches.

Conclusion

The market for Used Factory Five Trucks For Sale offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a truly unique, high-performance vehicle that blends classic American aesthetics with modern engineering. While the custom nature of these builds demands thorough research and inspection, the rewards are immense. By understanding what to look for, where to search, and the key considerations involved, you can confidently navigate this exciting niche and find the perfect Factory Five truck that reflects your passion for distinctive automotive craftsmanship. It’s more than just a truck; it’s a statement, a piece of art, and a thrilling ride, all rolled into one.