Classic/Antique Car Repair: 55 Ford Pick-up, mobile auto repair, auto repair business

Question
Hello,

My father passed away leaving behind a restored 55 Ford Pick-up truck. The battery is fully-charged, however, it will not even begin to turn-over (makes no noise at all). I believe that the problem could be with the solenoid or starter, but I'm not really sure. My question is, can you refer me to someone who could make a house call in my area? I live in Bowie, MD. Any info that you can provide is greatly appreciated.

Also, once the starting issue has been repaired we want to sell it, any suggestions on where to adverstise?

Thanks,
Dan

Answer
I'm sorry, I'm about as far from you as I could be without wading into the Pacific Ocean (I'm in the San Diego area).

There are a  number of other potential reasons why the truck won't crank; you need to make contact with a mechanic who is willing to check it out for you.  There are people who operate a mobile auto repair business, using a well stocked van to transport their tools and test instruments.

I just did a Google search for one in your area, and came up with the following:

Mobile Auto Repair Specialist
4308 Independence St, Rockville, MD 20853, (301) 933-1084
or 2405 Crain Hwy Ste C, Bowie, MD 20716, (301) 249-2273

Of course I do not know these folks; perhaps they can give you references.  Generally, at least out here, they tend to be quite competent and reliable. A good qualifier is to have mechanics that are "ASE" certified.  Gray hair is almost as good, though, especially with an older vehicle like yours.

There is nothing at all unusual about your truck, except that the battery is installed with the terminals reversed from modern practice - be sure the mechanic is aware of that.   That truck uses a starter solenoid that is separate from the starter, mounted on the inner fender. It is quite easy to jump from the battery hot lead (negative on this vehicle) to the small terminal on the solenoid, thus to make the vehicle start that way - turn the key on first, and make very sure the transmission is not in gear, and that the parking brake is set, because this process will start the engine regardless of the normal safety lockouts.  

Regarding selling the vehicle, the largest and most active marketplace for old cars and trucks is eBay, by far. Set the  opening bid very low (like $100) and set either no reserve, or one that is very low - bidders will flock to your ad, and the truck WILL sell.  You don't have to meet anyone, talk to anyone, ship the vehicle, none of those tasks!  Just wait for the payment, and then turn it over to the buyer for all the other work.

Good luck with it.

Dick