We just love classic trucks, done right. They symbolize the working man, whether that work is done in construction, agriculture, or manufacturing – trucks are a very unique part of our culture. Walt Young once owned a ’56 Ford pickup, back when it would have been a fairly new model. As a young man though circumstances intervened and he had to sell the truck.

Over fifty years later however, Young has another ’56 F-100 to enjoy, something that definitely tops the original that he owned all those years ago. We came across his ’56 which was built on a TCI Engineering chassis and features independent front suspension and a 9-inch rear differential and we instantly just fell in love.

The build began with an original truck out of Oregon which was media blasted to start from scratch. Much to Walt’s delight the stripping process revealed no rust or bodywork of any kind. This solid foundation, would remain unaltered with the exception of a change to the tilt-forward folding hood and some tucked bumpers. The chassis and drivetrain are more modern, offering far better ride, handling and drivability than anyone would have dreamed when the truck originally rolled down the assembly line back in 1956.

Eddie Swisher in Suisun, CA was enlisted to do the build on this truck. He had previously built another Ford for Young, a 1932 Roadster , which is why Young returned to Swisher to build this truck for him as well. The finish and detail level, colors, etc. – in fact, everything on this truck lend to an almost unreal appearance. There are times in looking at the photos that you might mistake this for a picture of a model or replica, rather than the real deal because it’s just too perfect.

A 302 engine was stroked to 347 cubic-inches to provide motivation for this unassuming ride. Utilizing Edelbrock heads and intake as well as a hydraulic roller cam and roller rocker arms, the engine makes over 400hp. Cruising revs are kept to a minimum thanks to a built Ford AOD transmission, as well as the use of 3.50:1 gears in the rear end. Exhaust is handled by stock style manifolds, stainless pipes, and Hushpower mufflers.

Inside you’ll find the original bench seat, lowered two inches and recovered in beautiful tan leather. There’s a tray under the seat, which hides a modern Panasonic radio and speakers.  The carpet is wool and matches the color of the seat and door panels. All of the upholstery work was handled by ABC Interiors in Vacaville, CA, and Oak panels with stainless strips finish out the bed.

Just like the ’56 he once owned, Young built this truck to drive. With quality parts and build quality to match, it appears he’ll be enjoying this ’56 much longer than the one he gave up over fifty years ago.