What color was the engine on a 1951 Ford F1?
The engine was painted Ford Blue.
Context: Ford's engine color convention in the early 1950s
During this era, Ford color-coded its flathead V8 engines with a distinctive blue enamel. That color appeared on most Ford passenger cars and light trucks of the late 1940s through the early 1950s, including the 1951 F-1 pickup.
Technical details of the 1951 F-1 engine
The 1951 Ford F-1 was equipped with Ford's flathead V8, a durable, cast-iron powerplant. The visible portions of the engine—primarily the engine block and valve covers—were finished in Ford Blue, while other components like the air cleaner housing and exhaust manifolds were typically left in their natural metal or painted in a separate color in some restorations.
Variations and restoration considerations
In restoration and in period photographs, you may encounter slight shade variations of Ford Blue and occasional repainting. To stay authentic, consult original factory literature and aim for a period-correct Ford Blue enamel on the block and valve covers.
Before any list, we provide a list of factors that can affect the engine color in images and restorations.
- Original factory finish: Ford Blue on the block and valve covers was standard for this era.
- Shade differences: The exact blue could vary by paint supplier and batch, yielding lighter or darker tones.
- Repaint history: Many surviving trucks have been repainted over the years, which can alter the color.
In summary, when authentic color is desired, reproduce the Ford Blue on the main engine components of the 1951 F-1.
Summary
The 1951 Ford F-1’s engine color was Ford Blue—the standard blue enamel used by Ford for flathead V8s of that era. Expect a blue block and valve covers in original or period-correct restorations, with variations possible due to repainting or shade choices.
What year did Ford start painting engines blue?
With some fanfare Ford made a decision to paint its engines Ford Corporate Blue in 1966, and this was to be the blue used through the rest of the first-generation run. At some point Ford began painting the valve covers on the engines as well.
How much is a 1951 Ford f1 worth?
The value of a 1951 Ford F-1 varies significantly based on condition, ranging from a few thousand dollars for a project truck to over $120,000 for a high-end, fully restored or custom model. A typical good-condition truck is valued around $18,700, while prices for more restored examples typically range from $40,000 to $70,000.
Factors affecting value
- Condition: This is the most significant factor.
- Project trucks: Can be as low as $3,000-$5,000, often missing major components like the engine and transmission.
- Good condition: A truck that is in good shape but not fully restored, with average specifications, can be valued around $18,700.
- Excellent/Restored: Trucks with full, high-quality restorations can fetch prices from $40,000 to $70,000.
- Custom/High-end: Fully customized trucks, often with modern upgrades like new engines, chassis, or powerful sound systems, can reach prices well over $100,000.
- Modifications: Customizations and modern upgrades can increase value, especially for buyers who want a classic look with modern reliability.
- Engine and transmission: The original engine is often preferred by collectors, but a modern, more powerful engine can be a selling point for those who want a better driving experience.
- Mileage: While it's a classic truck, mileage still plays a role. Lower mileage often means a higher price.
- Market: The local market can also affect the price, with certain regions having a higher demand for classic trucks.
What color did Ford paint engines?
Ford engine paint colors vary by era and engine type, with common historical colors including Ford Corporate Blue, red, and black. Modern options like Dupli-Color offer a wide range of colors for Ford engines, including Ford Green, Ford Blue, and New Ford Gray, in various finishes.
This video explains the history of Ford engine paint colors: 27sDentside DepotYouTube · May 19, 2025
Historical Ford engine colors
- Blue: Ford Corporate Blue became the standard in 1966 for most engines, while earlier models used a lighter blue on some engines like the 260ci V8.
- Red: Some older 6-cylinder engines were painted red, and Mercury FE blocks were red in 1965.
- Black: Early engines, including some FE blocks, were painted black.
- Gold: The 289 four-barrel engines (A- and D-codes) were painted gold.
- Other: Some engines had specific colors for components like the air cleaner and valve covers to differentiate models.
Modern and aftermarket options
- Dupli-Color: Offers a wide variety of engine paint colors, including Ford Green, Old Ford Blue, Ford Red, and New Ford Gray.
- Specialty paint brands: Some companies offer specific colors like Cleveland Blue, Corporate Blue, and Ford Competition Blue for certain models.
- Color codes: Look for specific product codes, such as DE1601 for Ford Blue or DE1635 for semi-gloss black.
- Custom and high-temperature paints: High-temperature paints are available for specific engine components.
Key considerations
- Identify your engine: Research the specific year, model, and engine type to find the correct original color.
- Consider the finish: Decide on a finish like gloss, semi-gloss, or flat, depending on the desired look and era.
- Use the correct paint: Use engine-specific paints designed to withstand heat and oil, and consider brands that offer historically accurate colors.
What engine is in a 1951 Ford F1?
Engines
| Engine | Engine Type | Years |
|---|---|---|
| 226 cu in (3,700 cm3) Flathead | Inline 6 | 1948–1951 |
| 239 cu in (3,920 cm3) Flathead | V8 | 1948–1952 |
| 254 cu in (4,160 cm3) Flathead | Inline 6 | 1948–1951 |
| 279 cu in (4,570 cm3) Lincoln Y-block (EAL) | V8 | 1952–1955 |
