Tightening emission regulations saw engine power outputs falling as the 1970s progressed. However, commercial vehicles like this 1973 Ford F-250 Ranger XLT generally didn’t suffer as much as high-performance passenger cars. Having said that, who doesn’t need more ponies under their right foot when towing or carting a load? The seller felt this F-250 deserved a birthday, upgrading its V8 powerplant to churn out more than enough horses to satisfy most enthusiasts. It could be considered a genuine sleeper because its appearance provides no clues to its performance potential. A new home beckons, with the seller listing the Ranger here on Craigslist in Campbell, California. It could be yours for $22,500, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder ToddK for spotting this beauty.

Ford’s Sixth Generation F-Series hit showroom floors for the 1973 model year, with buyers still driving them out the door in 1979. The new model rode on the same chassis as its predecessor, but the company had turned greater attention to rust prevention strategies to allay the fears of previous owners who had suffered at the hands of tinworm. The original owner ordered this 1973 Ranger in Mallard Green and Wimbledon White. The seller has been this Pickup’s custodian for a decade, and while he admits the White exterior sections received a refresh, the Green is factory paint. It remains presentable for what some might consider a survivor-grade classic, with no significant paint or panel imperfections. There is the typical array of small chips and marks, but nothing that would be viewed as a deal-breaker. This F-250 has spent its life in California, making its rust-free status unsurprising. The underside shots reveal areas of dry surface corrosion on the floors and frame, but there is no evidence of steel penetration. The chrome and trim are in good order for their age, the glass is excellent, and the steel wheels and original hubcaps provide no hints of the surprise awaiting us when we open the hood.

Buyers could order their new 1973 F-250 with a 390ci V8 under the hood that delivered a respectable 161hp. That satisfied most owners, but this one wanted to push the boundaries. The 390 was pulled and despatched to vintage engine specialist Tony Oddo Jr. for a birthday. The list of work this gentleman completes is as long as your arm and is almost worthy of its own book. A new 4.25″ crank found its way into the V8, lifting its capacity to 446ci. A set of Edelbrock Performer cylinder heads were bolted on, with its matching manifold topped by a Holley 625 Street Dominator carburetor. Ceramic-coated headers feed the spent gases to a Walker dual exhaust with an H-Pipe, while a Lincoln Mark 8 fan and four-core aluminum radiator keep the temperature in check. The engine received a few subtle cosmetic enhancements, with the seller also powdercoating the inner fenders and core support in Satin Black before bolting it into place. Was it worth the effort? Just slightly! Forget 161hp because this V8 has dynoed at 425hp and 503 ft/lbs of torque on pump gas. There’s no point having mountains of power if it can’t effectively meet the tarmac. The Ranger’s C6 automatic transmission received a deeper pan, a shift kit, and a Sonnax “R” code servo. The C6 sends the power to a Dana 60 rear end with a 3.73 Traction-Lok center. The fuel system received numerous upgrades, while the seller treated the suspension to new Monroe shocks, sway bar bushes, and Red-Head steering gear. The drivetrain has been appropriately maintained, and that monster motor has less than 10,000 miles under its belt since the build. The seller supplies no specific information about how it runs or drives, although the visual indications are it is a turnkey classic.

The TLC continued when the seller turned their attention to this Ranger’s interior. They treated it to a new dash, headliner, door trims, and a complete sound-deadening treatment for the cab and doors. Reproduction items include a horn bar, gauge bezel, and AM/FM radio. The result was worthwhile because the interior presents well, with no signs of wear or abuse. The radio and heater are the only creature comforts because the buyer won’t score luxuries like air conditioning or cruise control. The seller fitted an aftermarket gauge cluster under the dash, which was a wise decision for monitoring the beast under the hood.

I like this 1973 F-250 Ranger XLT, and I think I feel that way because it is a sleeper. There is nothing to suggest the performance available to its next owner, and it would undoubtedly spring a surprise or two at the local drag strip. Is it worth the asking price? It is possible to buy relatively tidy and unmodified examples for around $15,000, although you can double that figure for a pristine Ranger. I doubt you could buy a “stock” example in a similar condition to this and perform the upgrades for the price. The other attraction is that the miles it has clocked should have eliminated any bugs or issues. Is it worth the cost? I think so, but do you agree?