Rick Tuma’s 1965 Ford F100
When Ford marketed its F100 pickups, one of the promotional lines said the trucks had a “ride that feels like a car.” That message for Rick Tuma’s 1965 Ford F100 Styleside should be updated to a “ride that feels like a modern performance machine.”
With 430 horses residing under the hood, this F100 far outperforms the inline six or 352c.i. V8 originally available from the factory. Rick’s truck also raises the bar for handling, design, and workmanship thanks to the team at WW Speed & Customs in Grand Junction, Colorado. The shop has proven it can build a top-rate F100, as evidenced by the ’71 model known as “El Diablo” that won the Goodguys 2021 LMC Truck of the Year Late title.
First, let’s talk about the engine in Rick’s ride – a 376c.i. Chevrolet Performance LS3 V8 that is well dressed and detailed with custom paint and Billet Specialties valve covers. Hedman headers guide waste gases through a custom dual exhaust system with Flowmaster mufflers. The cooling system is from Champion and a Top Street Performance system drives the accessories. The GM 4L65 automatic transmission is controlled by a Lokar shifter.
The truck’s original frame is updated with new coil-over front and rear suspensions from QA1, with Wilwood disc brakes on all four corners handling stopping chores. Billet Specialties 18- and 20-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich tires improve handling and appearance.
Bodywork was done in-house by the team at WW Speed and Customs. While the body was kept mostly stock, body lines and gaps were tightened and perfected before the striking PPG orange and white finish was applied. Ogden Chrome gets credit for the fresh plating on the grille, bumpers, and other trim pieces, while the bed floor was treated to new wood and a relocated fuel filler for the frame-mounted tank.
The stylish interior was created by Accurate Upholstery, with contemporary bucket seats and a center console trimmed in tasteful tan leather. The dash was fitted with a Custom Cab VHX instrument cluster from Dakota Digital and an under-dash panel to house the Vintage Air vents. A Billet Specialties steering wheel sits on a tilt column. American Autowire provided the wiring needs; interior door handles and pedals came from Billet Specialties.
Back in the mid-’60s, pickups were still considered work trucks, with very little effort put toward creature comfort or performance. Even though Rick’s Custom Cab 1965 Ford F100 was one of the more upscale offerings of the era, its fresh appearance and modern performance are a far cry from its humble beginnings and a testament to the talents of the WW Speed & Customs crew.
Photos by John Jackson
