Words, photos & video: Gary Rosier

Rich Baratha of Port Orange, Fla. owns this very cool 1953 Ford F100. We really shouldn’t say “Mellow,” because it’s anything but!

Painted a Chrysler Yellow, it’s powered by a Ford 302 with the Automatic (AOD). The rear end is a Ford 9in with 3:52 gears.

Its many custom tweaks include a power tilt front end and all-metal power lid to the pick-up bed! A custom stitched suitcase also resides in the bed for additional storage. A louvered rear tailgate panel, Dolphin gauges and custom pin-striping all add to the quality of this cool ride!

It has 4-wheel disc brakes, vintage A/C, cruise, power windows, locks and remotes (auto-opener door locks too). A custom LeCara leather wrapped steering wheel matches up nicely with the custom tan leather interior.

Would you believe this truck is a 13-year-old restoration? Mellow Yellow? I think not!