Restored 1974 F-350 Tow Truck Wrecker Holmes 440 Bed 390-4V T18 4-speed

Up for auction is a beautifully restored 1974 Ford F350 Tow Truck with a Holmes 440 bed. This wrecker has been in Texas its whole life, having been originally bought new in Kerrville and working in the Central Texas area entirely. I found this truck retired in San Antonio and brought it to Austin for restoration.

The truck was originally a 360-2V truck but at some point was upgraded to the current 390-4V engine. The original T-18 4-speed trans is in place with a new LUK clutch. The rear-end has 4.10 gears.

Vintage Motorola two-way radio is in place, but just for show. They don’t use those anymore so you wouldn’t be able to talk to anyone, anyway. The power light and transmit light do operate for a realistic feel. The period correct Federal Twin Sonic light bar works perfectly.

New paint, newer model seat (from a 1995 F150), all new rubber seals and floor mat. It’s in excellent mechanical condition, always starts right up. It leaks a little PS fluid, otherwise totally solid underneath. PS, PB as original. Every Ford FE motor leaks around the exhaust manifolds eventually, but the gaskets have already been replaced on this one so no leaks.

The bed is coated with black bed liner. The boom and winch works (as shown) so you can haul vintage cars and trucks if you like (even comes with J-hooks and chains) but this truck would be an excellent advertisement for your towing company or a parade truck.

I always wanted a tow truck since I was a kid. Now in my 50s, I have finally made my dream come true. Now it’s time for someone else to make their dream come true as well, just the hard work is already done.

I’ve had this truck for several years and did all the work (except for paint) myself, so I know this truck inside and out. Feel free to email me with any questions you may have. If you are out of state, I will be happy to work with your shipper to get this beautiful rig to you safely.