Overview of the 1996 Ford F-350
Meet the 1996 Ford F-350, a beauty of a Crew Cab dually pickup that started its journey at LCM-Centaurus in Elkhart, Indiana. This truck didn’t just roll off the factory line; oh no, it underwent a transformation with some impressive lower bodywork alterations, a stunning tri-tone blue paint scheme, and classy blue leather upholstery for its front captain’s chairs. Let’s not forget the touch of wood finish that brings a nice refinement to the interior.
The truck kicked things off with a sale from Nick Nicholas Ford in Inverness, Florida, and has rolled into new ownership in 2023, now boasting a mileage of 175k. This powerhouse is driven by a robust 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8, complemented by an aFe intake and an aftermarket ECU tuning chip. Shifting is effortless through a four-speed automatic transmission paired with a limited-slip differential. Additional stand-out features include:
- A.R.E. camper shell
- Illuminated grab bars
- Running boards
- Dual fuel tanks
- 16″ eight-hole alloy wheels
- Receiver hitch
This F-350 isn’t just a truck; it’s also equipped with custom overhead and center consoles, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a rear television for the good passengers, a trusty CB radio, a Kenwood head unit, and, of course, modern air conditioning. Not too shabby for a ride that’s over two decades old! It’s available at no reserve, complete with a window sticker, a build sheet, all manufacturer literature, a clean Carfax, and a spotless Kentucky title in the seller’s name.
Paint and Exterior Adjustments
Originally wearing a coat of Oxford White from the factory, this truck has had quite the makeover. Centaurus jazzed it up with running boards featuring diamond-plate treads and a front air dam, giving it a sturdier look. Those revised wheel arch moldings and that eye-catching tri-tone blue finish with red pinstriping really make it stand out on the road.
The A.R.E. camper shell now graces the bed with its lockable hatches on three sides, and there’s plenty more flair to catch your eye, like:
- Cab visor
- Boomerang rooftop antenna
- Sliding rear window
- Chrome bumpers
- Illuminated grab bars
- Clearance lights
- Low-mount tow mirrors
- Dual fuel tanks
- Receiver hitch
- Chrome exhaust finisher
They even added mounting provisions for a fifth-wheel hitch in the cargo bed. Important to note, the seller has swapped out the tailgate, repainted the hood, and tweaked the front air dam. A little wear is showing on some body panels, but what do you expect from a truck that’s seen some miles?
Wheels and Braking System
Resting on 16″ eight-hole alloy wheels shod with 215/85 Firestone Transforce HT2 tires, this F-350 isn’t just about style; it’s got the stopping power too. The brakes are power-assisted, featuring front discs and rear drums, along with a bit of ABS technology for good measure. Essential for handling those heavier loads!
Interior Comfort and Functionality
Step inside, and you’re greeted with front captain’s chairs and a rear bench draped in luxurious blue leather. The driver gets a power-adjustable seat, and your rear passengers? They get a sweet treat—a custom center console that houses a 9″ television. The luxurious touches don’t stop there, with high-gloss wood trim wrapping around the cabin and an overhead console stuffed with a CB radio, radar detector, auxiliary switches, and even headphone jacks.
Of course, it’s equipped with modern amenities like a Bluetooth-capable Kenwood head unit, and it came factory-equipped with air conditioning, power windows, and locks. However, a fair warning: the upholstery on the outer edge of the driver’s seat has seen better days.
Dashboard and Instrumentation
The two-spoke steering wheel isn’t just for looks; it features controls for the cruise control system, framing an 85-mph speedometer and a 4k-rpm tachometer. You’ll also find auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, and fuel level. Right now, the digital odometer shows 175k miles on the clock, about 5k of which have been added under the seller’s new ownership. Do note, however, that the fuel gauge can be a bit moody, especially when using the front tank.
Performance and Mechanics
Under the hood, the 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 was originally factory-rated at 215 horsepower and a hefty 425 lb-ft of torque. It’s been upgraded with an aFe intake and an aftermarket ECU tuning chip boasting multiple driver-selectable modes. Recent updates include a fresh alternator installed in June 2023 and oil changes along with new batteries in December 2024.
This truck sends power to the rear wheels through its four-speed automatic transmission and is supported by a limited-slip rear differential with a 4.10:1 gearing configuration. Just a heads-up—some corrosion is evident on various components under the truck, but hey, that’s just part of the charm of a seasoned Ford!
Documentation and History
Last but certainly not least, the window sticker details the truck’s initial delivery to LMC of Elkhart, Indiana, along with the factory colors, equipment, options, and a total price tag of $31,288 back when it first rolled out. The build sheet from Centaurus provides a breakdown of both standard and optional equipment added during its conversion, totaling an additional $13,465.
And the best part? The Carfax report comes clean, free of accidents or any other damage. This F-350 is not just a ride; it’s a story waiting to unfold.