Ron Edwards has owned his 1964 Ranchero for approximately five years. Over that period of time he has steadily improved it until it has become what it is today--a reliable Ranchero that he would drive anywhere.

Ron has worked with Bill Johns over the past five years to improve the vehicle.

The vehicle was originally equipped with a 260 V-8 and 2-speed automatic transmission. Somewhere along the way the drive train was upgraded to a 289 V-8 and a C-4 automatic transmission. The drive train upgrades did not end here though. Recently, a 302 "roller" motor was installed and the Ranchero has beenpurring smoothly ever since the rebuilt 302 was installed. Although the 289 was running fine, Ron wanted complete reliability from an upgraded engine. Ron is another of the growing list of SCFF members who have installed 302 engines in their Falcons. Ron's Ranchero was originally a V-8 vehicle, so he did not have to go through some of the suspension upgrades that are recommended when a 6 Cylinder Falcon is converted to a V-8 version.

Ron's 64 Ranchero at 1998 Pacific Regional--photo by Geoff Belleau

Ron converted the column C-4 shift to the floor mounted Mustang style shifter. This is a nice upgrade and the way it was installed appears to be factory approved.

The front end and suspension have been recently rebuilt. Disc Brakes have been added to the front wheels. This one upgrade completely transforms the stopping ability of the Ranchero and certainly adds to Ron's driving pleasure.

The Ranchero's exterior is white--not sure of the name, but the paint is in good condition, and is easy to keep clean according to Ron.

Ron recently reupholstered the black front bench seat. The remainder of the interior appointments are also black. The white exterior and black interior contrast nicely and are easy on the eyes.

Ron can easily and safely stow his luggage and other hauling items in the bed of the Ranchero. All is snug and clean back there and is topped with a Protect-O-Top. The next time you see Ron he will most likely have his Ranchero with him. Check it out!