1955 Ford F100

1955 Ford Panel Truck Ambulance Trinity County CA Coachbuilt Conversion Y-Block V8 Some vehicles are restored. Others are remembered. This 1955 Ford Panel Truck originally converted into an ambulance and later used in Trinity County Search & Rescue is one of those rare survivors that carries not just history but personality community and decades of real life behind it. Now offered on consignment at $49995. From Workhorse to Lifesaver 1955 Origins In 1955 this truck began as a standard Ford panel before being: Purchased new by Trinity County California from Lou Gerard Motors in Redding California Sent to Siebert Coachworks in Toledo Ohio for professional ambulance conversion During the conversion: The body was modified ( chopped ) Two additional doors were added creating a rare four-door ambulance configuration It was then returned to Northern California and immediately placed into service first as an ambulance and later in Search & Rescue operations serving the community when it mattered most. The Gastronomic Tour A True American Story Included handwritten notes document one of the most unique delivery stories you ll come across: In June 1955 the driver tasked with retrieving the newly converted ambulance made the cross-country trip back to Weaverville. That seven-day journey courtesy of Ford became locally known as: The Gastronomic Tour Named after the driver s well-known love of food the trip became a rolling culinary adventure across America. When the truck arrived it went straight into emergency service. Forgotten Then Saved After years of service: Stored outdoors in a county maintenance yard Windows broken and body showing signs of wear Then came the turning point: Purchased at a county employee auction for just $500 What followed was not a flip but a true rescue and restoration. Three-Year Restoration & Lifetime Ownership The current owners now in their 80s brought the truck home and spent three years restoring it. Carefully brought back to life over time Custom interior upholstery Custom wheels Power assist steering added This has been a long-term enthusiast-owned vehicle not something recently turned for profit. The Show Circuit Years More Than a Vehicle For years this truck wasn t just displayed it was experienced. The owners became well-known at car shows for: Dressing as a doctor and nurse Turning the ambulance into a fully interactive display Creating lasting memories with families kids and fellow enthusiasts This truck didn t just sit it connected people. Drivetrain & Mechanical Ford Y-block V8 (likely 292ci) 3-speed manual transmission Power steering Shut-off switch installed The engine bay presents well and reflects a usable maintained classic. Condition This is a restored driver-quality vintage ambulance with authentic character throughout. Needs: Fuel gauge not working Sending unit in tank needed Consignment & Representation This vehicle is being offered on consignment through Platt Motors a highly respected and transparent classic car dealership with a family legacy dating back to 1931. Platt Motors has built a reputation as a true pioneer in the automobile industry specializing in honest straightforward transactions and representing unique story-driven vehicles just like this one. Why This One Stands Apart You can buy a classic truck. You can buy an old ambulance. But it s incredibly rare to find one with: Documented municipal ambulance & Search & Rescue history Lou Gerard Motors original sale provenance Coachbuilt Siebert conversion Period story like the Gastronomic Tour Decades of continuous ownership A vehicle that lived a second life as a car show centerpiece Final Thought This isn t just a 1955 Ford. It s a lifesaver a storyteller and a rolling piece of Americana ready for its next chapter. See our full inventory at plattmotors.com