Ford F-Series

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Ford F-Series
Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	1948–present
Class	Full-size pickup truck
Similar	Chevrolet Silverado GMC Sierra Dodge Ram

The F-Series is a series of full-size pickup trucks from Ford Motor Company sold for over 5 decades. The most popular variant of the F-Series is the F-150. It has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for 23 years and the bestselling truck for 29 years,^[1] though this does not include combined sales of GM pickup trucks.^[2] Analysts estimate that the F-Series alone makes up half of the Ford Motor Company's profits in recent years.

Contents 1 First generation (1948–1952) 2 Second generation (1953–1956) 3 Third generation (1957–1960) 4 Fourth generation (1961–1966) 5 Fifth generation (1967–1972) 6 Sixth generation (1973–1979) 7 Seventh generation (1980–1986) 8 Eighth generation (1987–1991) 9 Ninth generation (1992–1996/1997) 10 Tenth generation (1997–2003/2004) 11 Eleventh generation (2004–) 12 Super Duty Pickups 12.1 What is a "Super Duty"? 12.2 1st Generation (1999–2004) 12.3 2nd Generation (2005–2007) 12.4 3rd Generation (2008– ) 13 F-series in the south of South America. 14 Notes 15 Gallery 16 Footnotes 17 References 18 External links

[edit] First generation (1948–1952)

First generation
Also called	Ford F-1 Ford F-2 Ford F-3
Production	1948–1952
Engine	226 in³ (3.7 L) I6 239 in³ (3.9 L) Flathead V8 215 in³ (3.5 L) I6

The first F-series truck (known as the Ford Bonus) from Ford was introduced in 1948, replacing the company's previous car-based pickup line. It was a modern-looking truck with a one-piece windshield and integrated headlights. The F-series was available as three models:

• F-1: half-ton
• F-2: three-quarter-ton
• F-3: Heavy Duty

Engines:

• 1948–1950: 226 in³ (3.7 L) straight-six, 95 hp (71 kW)
• 1948–1952: 239 in³ (3.9 L) Flathead V8, 100 hp (74.6 kW)
• 1951–1952: 215 in³ (3.5 L) straight-six, 101 hp (75.3 kW)

[edit] Second generation (1953–1956)

Second generation
Production	1953–1956
Engine	239 in³ (3.9 L) Flathead V8 215 in³ (3.5 L) I6 223 in³ (3.7 L) I6 239 in³ (3.9 L) Y-block V8 223 in³ (3.7 L) I6 272 in³ (4.5 L) Y-block V8

The F-series was redesigned for 1953 with a more integrated look. The pickups also acquired their familiar names: F-100, F-250, and the heavy-duty F-350. Interior amenities were new, including a dome light, lighter, arm rests, and sun visors.
Engines:

• 1953 - 239 in³ (3.9 L) Flathead V8, 100 hp (74.6 kW)
• 1953 - 215 in³ (3.5 L) straight-six, 101 hp (75.3 kW)
• 1954-1955 - 223 in³ (3.7 L) "Mileage Maker" straight-6, 115 hp (86 kW)
• 1954-1955 - 239 in³ (3.9 L) Y-block "Power King" V8, 130 hp (97 kW)
• 1956 - 223 in³ (3.7 L) "Mileage Maker" straight-6, 137 hp (102 kW)
• 1956 - 272 in³ (4.5 L) Y-block V8, 173 hp (129 kW)

[edit] Third generation (1957–1960)

Third generation
Production	1957–1960
Engine	223 in³ (3.7 L) I6 272 in³ (4.5 L) Y-block V8 292 in³ (4.8 L) Y-block V8

The truck was restyled again in 1957 with a hood that now sat flush with the fenders and a new chrome grille. In the back, the traditional separate-fender body was now called flareside, while a new smooth-sided look was known as styleside. Four wheel drive, now a common feature, was a new addition to the truck in 1959.

Engines:

• 1958-1960 - 223 in³ (3.7 L) straight-6, 137 hp(102 kW)
• 1958 - 272 in³ (4.5 L) Y-block V8, 173 hp (129 kW)
• 1959-1960 - 292 in³ (4.8 L) Y-block V8, 186 hp (139 kW)

[edit] Fourth generation (1961–1966)

Fourth generation
Production	1961–1966
Engine	223 in³ (3.7 L) I6 292 in³ (4.8 L) Y-block V8 240 in³ (3.9 L) I6 300 in³ (4.9 L) I6 352 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8

The truck was completely redesigned for 1961 with a wider look, and unibody trucks were built with an integrated cab and box. Power was over 200 hp with the 1965 refresh of the powertrain. In 1965, the Twin I-Beam front suspension was introduced with coil springs. The 1965 and 1966 trucks have a "TWIN I-BEAM" emblem on the front fender. A 4-door crew cab version was also introduced in 1965, still a popular option.

In 1965, the 4.9L straight-6 was introduced. It had 7 main barrings and timing gears (no chain or belt). It will prove itself later on to be Ford's most dependable gas engine. It was discontinued in 1996.

Engines:

• 1961-1964 - 223 in³ (3.7 L) straight-6, 137 hp (102 kW)
• 1961-1964 - 292 in³ (4.8 L) Y-block V8, 186 hp (139 kW)
• 1965-1966 - 240 in³ (3.9 L) straight-6, 150 hp (112 kW)
• 1965-1966 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6, 170 hp (127 kW)
• 1965-1966 - 352 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8, 208 hp (155 kW)

[edit] Fifth generation (1967–1972)

Fifth generation
Production	1967–1972
Engine	240 in³ (3.9 L) I6 300 in³ (4.9 L) I6 352 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8 360 in³ (5.9 L) FE V8 390 in³ (6.4 L) FE V8 302 in³ (4.9 L) Windsor V8

Another refresh came in 1967 along with a now-familiar name: the upscale Ranger trim line in addition to the base and Custom Cab trim levels. In 1968, the trucks received larger versions of Ford's FE engine family with the introduction of the 360 and 390 cubic inch engines. The 302 became an option in late '69. The top trim for 1970 was now named Ranger XLT with Ranger, Sport Custom and Custom rounding off the rest of the line. The fifth generation bodies were noted for durability and simplicity of design making them a favorite for restoration.

Engines:

• 1967-1972 - 240 in³ (3.9 L) straight-6
• 1967-1972 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6
• 1967 - 352 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8
• 1968-1972 - 360 in³ (5.9 L) FE V8
• 1968-1972 - 390 in³ (6.4 L) FE V8
• 1969-1972 - 302 in³ (4.9 L) Windsor V8, 220 hp (164 kW)

[edit] Sixth generation (1973–1979)

Sixth generation
Production	1973–1979
Engine	240 in³ (3.9 L) I6 300 in³ (4.9 L) I6 352 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8 360 in³ (5.9 L) FE V8 390 in³ (6.4 L) FE V8 302 in³ (4.9 L) Windsor V8 460 in³ (7.5 L) 385 V8 351 in³ (5.8 L) Cleveland V8 400 in³ (6.6 L) Cleveland V8

The truck was redesigned in 1973 with an automatic transmission option. Other changes included the 1974 introduction of the extended super cab version. The F-150 was introduced in 1973. The grille for the 1973 model year featured two silver-metallic plastic inserts divided by an aluminum bar that was part of the main grille frame, with the letters "F-O-R-D" space out in a thin rail in the upper part of the grille. Large round headlights were on either side of the grille with the park/turnsignal lamps placed above in the same rail where the "FORD" lettering was. In 1976, this familiar "split-grille" design was facelifted slightly to feature black accents around the headlights and a refined appearance overall. In 1978, the round headlight design was retained while the split grille design was overhauled in favor of a single-piece grille insert design. The headlights were also placed in a more stylized "insert" themselves, and the park/turnsignal lamps were now placed below the headlights. A luxury Lariat trim was also introduced for 1978. In 1976, the F-series became the best-selling truck in America, a position it has continued to hold since. In 1979, the round headlights were replaced by rectangular headlamps (which were optional on late 1978 high-end models), and the surrounding grille insert that framed the headlamps was now available in either black, or chrome to match that of the aluminum grille frame. Additionally, an optional chrome-plated "F-O-R-D" letterset could now be seen on the hood immediately above the grille.

Engines:

• 1973-1977 - 240 in³ (3.9 L) straight-6
• 1973-1977 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6
• 1973-1977 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) FE V8
• 1973-1976 - 360 in³ (5.9 L) FE V8
• 1973-1977 - 390 in³ (6.4 L) FE V8
• 1973-1977 - 302 in³ (5.0 L) Windsor V8
• 1973-1979 - 460 in³ (7.5 L) 385 V8
• 1977-1979 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) Cleveland V8, 163 hp (122 kW)
• 1977-1979 - 400 in³ (6.6 L) Cleveland V8, 169 hp (126 kW)
• 1978-1979 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6, 114 hp (85 kW)

[edit] Seventh generation (1980–1986)

Seventh generation
Production	1980–1986
Engine	300 in³ (4.9 L) I6 302 in³ (5.0 L) Windsor V8 351 in³ (5.8 L) Cleveland V8 400 in³ (6.6 L) Cleveland V8 7.5 L 460 V8 6.9 L Diesel V8

The next major redesign came in 1980. The new truck had a squarer look, with sharp lines and flat panels. The Ranger trim line was dropped in 1982, since that name was to be applied to the new Ford Ranger compact pickup. Trim options were now XL, XLT, and XLT Lariat. The big-block 460 in³ V8 was dropped for 1980, but added again in 1983 along with a diesel option. The new Essex V6 was added in 1982, but dropped after 1983. The F-100 was dropped as the base model at the end of 1983 and the now-familiar F-150 took its place as the base model for 1984. In 1985 fuel injection became optional in the 5.0 L model. In 1986 this became the only 5.0 L model offered.

In Mexico, there is an "F-200" which was introduced in 1976. This variant ran the remainder of the eighth generation until 1991.

Engines:

• 1982-1983 - 232 in³ (3.8 L) V6
• 1980-1981 - 255 in³ V8
• 1980-1986 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6
• 1980-1985 - 302 in³ (5.0 L) Windsor V8
• 1985-1986 - Windsor 5.0 L V8, FI, 185 hp
• 1980-1982 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) Cleveland V8
• 1983-1986 - Windsor 5.8 L V8
• 1980-1982 - 400 in³ (6.6 L) Cleveland V8
• 1983-1986 - 7.5 L 460 V8, 245 hp (183 kW)
• 1983-1986 - 6.9 L Diesel V8, 170 hp (127 kW)

[edit] Eighth generation (1987–1991)

Eighth generation
Production	1987–1991
Engine	4.9 L I6 5.8 L Windsor V8 6.9 L Diesel V8 7.5 L 385 V8 7.3 L IDI Diesel V8 5.0 L Windsor V8

The 1987 refresh was evolutionary. The design was more streamlined, and maintenance items were made simpler. Rear antilock brakes were now standard, the first truck to boast this. The manual transmission was revised with five speeds in 1988, and the flareside box was dropped. For 1987 the 4.9 L had standard fuel injection; for 1988, the 5.8 L and 7.5 L also gained fuel injection, with 1988 being the first year no carbureted engines were offered. 1988 also saw the replacement of the 6.9 L diesel with a 7.3 L International Harvester IDI diesel.

Four wheel drive improvements included the addition of automatic locking hubs for the F-150 in 1989, and for the rest in 1991. Also, on the four wheel drive models, it featured a solid front axle, however it was hinged in the middle and connected to the frame. This offered both coil and leaf springs. The 5.0 L truck also had an optional "Touch Drive" electronic transfer case.

The "F-Super Duty" (which is exactly what the 2 fender side body badges were stamped) models appeared from 1988-1997. They were basically a very Heavy Duty F-350 (or could even be considered an F-450) used mostly for wreckers/tow trucks but also used in ambulances and various commercial/industrial vehicles too. You had a choice of manual or automatic transmission. They were labeled on the door sticker as an 'incomplete vehicle' (chassis cab) due to the fact that there was no bed installed and an aftermarket bed (specific to its future use) was added after the truck's initial build date. It came with dual fuel tanks that included an in dash mounted toggle switch to select between the 'Front' & 'Rear' tanks while using only the one fuel guage. It came with a PTO (Power Take-Off) used to power attachments (like winches or a dump bed) from the engine. They were rated at approx 15,000 lbs GVWR. They only came with the 7.3L V8 diesel (there were turbo and non-turbo versions depending on the year) with all wheels being 10-lug & DRW (Dual Rear Wheels). This model is not to be confused with the "Super Duty" commercial line of trucks starting in 1999.

Engines:

• 1987-1991 - 4.9 L straight-6, EFI, 150 hp (112 kW)
• 1987 - Windsor 5.8 L V8
• 1987 - 6.9 L Diesel V8, 170 hp (127 kW)
• 1987 - 7.5 L 460 V8, 245 hp (183 kW)
• 1988-1991 - 460 7.5 L V8, EFI, 230 hp
• 1988-1991 - 7.3 L International Harvester IDI Diesel V8, 180 hp
• 1987-1991 - Windsor 5.0 L V8, EFI, 185 hp
• 1988-1991 - Windsor 5.8 L V8, EFI, 210 hp

[edit] Ninth generation (1992–1996/1997)

Ninth generation
Production	1992–1996
Engine	4.9 L I6 7.5 L 385 V8 7.3 L IDI V8 5.0 L Windsor V8 5.8 L Windsor V8 7.3 L Power Stroke V8

The 1992 truck received a new aerodynamic-looking front end, a new dashboard, and the flareside returned until 1996. The Lightning Performance Truck appeared in 1993, with more than 20 industry "firsts" or pilot applications, including 17" aluminum wheels, gas-charged shocks, and performance handling developed by world-champion driver Jackie Stewart. A CD player option was new for 1994, as was a driver's-side airbag, "CHMSL" third brake light, brake-shift interlock, and CFC free A/C. Following the lead of the Explorer, an Eddie Bauer trim line was added for 1995.

Ford trailed rival General Motors trucks for much of the ninth generation, though sales steadily rose each year. 500,000 F-Series trucks were sold in 1992, but this rose to nearly 800,000 by 1996, and the Ford had overtaken the combined Chevrolet and GMC pickup sales for the first time in a decade.

The F-250HD (Heavy Duty) and F-350 variants continued through 1997.

Engines:

• 1992-1996 - 4.9 L straight-6, FI, 150 hp
• 1992-1997 - 7.5 L 385 V8, FI, 240 hp
• 1992-1994 - 7.3 L IDI Diesel V8, 185 hp/360 ft.lbf
• 1993-1994 - 7.3 L Turbo IDI Diesel V8, 190 hp/395 ft.lbf
• 1992-1996 - 5.0 L Windsor V8, FI, 185 hp
• 1992-1996 - 5.8 L Windsor V8, FI, 210 hp
• 1993-1995 - 5.8 L Windsor V8, FI, 240 hp Lightning
• 1994.5-1997 - 7.3 L Power Stroke turbo-Diesel V8, 210 hp/425 ft.lbf

[edit] Tenth generation (1997–2003/2004)

Tenth generation
Production	1997–2003
Layout	FR layout/All wheel drive
Engine	5.4L 195 hp V8 4.2L 205 hp V6 4.6L 220 hp V8 5.4L 260 hp V8 5.4L 360 hp V8 5.4L 235 hp V8 7.3L 235 hp V8 6.8L 275 hp V10
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual
Related	Lincoln Blackwood

Ford took the aero styling to its conclusion for 1997 with an extremely round nose on the new F-series. The F-250 was basically an F-150 but with heavier duty axles and suspension, along with odd 7 lug wheels. With the arrival of the "Super Duty" series in 1999, the standard F-250 ('light duty') line was totally dropped and was offered as the "7700" package for the F-150 (noted on the tailgate emblem). A wide variety of body options were available: regular cab and SuperCab, standard or flareside boxes, and short and long beds. A new Lightning was introduced in 1999, and Harley-Davidson and King Ranch versions were also created. In 2001 the SuperCrew cab was introduced.

Sales of the F-150 surged in the tenth generation to 750,000 to over 900,000 in 2001 as the General Motors and Dodge products lagged. Ford's sales dropped, however, for the final years of this generation as the redesigned Dodge trucks were released.

The F-150 was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1997 [3].

1997 also marked introduction of Ford's modular Single Overhead cam (SOHC) engines into F-150.

Ford manufactured a limited run of "Heritage Edition" F-150s of this body style in 2004 (as 2004 model years) to finish out production

Ford F-150 SVT Lightning

1997-2003 Ford F-150

F-150 SuperCrew Harley Davidson edition

Engines:

• 1997-2003 - 4.2 L Essex V6, 202 hp/252 ft.lbf
• 1997-1998 - 4.6 L Triton V8, 220 hp/280 ft.lbf
• 1999-2003 - 4.6 L Triton V8, 231 hp/293 ft.lbf
• 1995-1998 - 5.4 L Triton V8, 235 hp/330 ft.lbf
• 1999-2003 - 5.4 L Triton V8, 260 hp/350 ft.lbf
• 1999-2000 - 5.4 L supercharged Triton V8, 360 hp (99-00 Lightning)
• 2001-2004 - 5.4 L supercharged Triton V8, 380 hp (01-04 Lightning)
• 1999-2004 - 5.4 L supercharged Triton V8, 340 hp (02-03 Harley-Davidson)
• 1999 - 6.8 L Triton V10, 275 hp/410 ft.lbf (Super Duty)
• 2000-2003 - 6.8 L Triton V10, 310 hp/425 ft.lbf (Super Duty)
• 1999-2003 - 7.3 L Power Stroke turbo-Diesel V8, 250 hp/500 ft.lbf (Super Duty)

[edit] Eleventh generation (2004–)

Eleventh generation
Production	2004–present
Platform	FR/4WD P2 platform
Engine	4.6 L Triton V8 5.4 L 3V Triton V8 4.2 L Triton V6
Wheelbase	126.0 in (3200 mm) 137.0 in (3480 mm) 144.5 in (3670 mm)
Length	211.2 in (5364 mm) 226.4 in (5751 mm) 229.8 in (5837 mm)
Width	78.9 in (2004 mm) 79.9 in (2029 mm) 95.5 in (2426 mm)
Height	73.7–80.8 in (1872–2052 mm)
Related	Lincoln Mark LT

In 2004, Ford redesigned the F-150 using the new P2 platform. The side windows also changed to a Super Duty-like profile, also dipping towards the front of the door. Initially, only Ford's 4.6 L Triton and new 3-valve 5.4 L 3V Triton V8 engines and automatic transmissions were offered on the new trucks. Work-oriented versions with an available 4.2 L Triton V6 and manual transmission debuted for 2005.

The previous F-150 was continued in production until the summer of 2004 as the Heritage model, but continues on sale in Mexico (with a redesigned grille similar to the new model) as a cheaper alternative to the more expensive new bodystyle.

The new F-150 won the North American Truck of the Year award and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 2004. It also beat the three-time winning Chevrolet Silverado for Car and Driver magazine's Best Pickup Truck for 2004 and 2005. Additionally, over 939,000 F-Series trucks were sold in 2005, a single-year sales record for trucks.^[1]

For 2007, Ford introduced a complement to the existing 4WD FX4 model, the new FX2 Sport package. This truck is a 2 wheel drive truck with an appearance package.

Ford has now reported that a smaller diesel engine will be an option for the F-150 soon, making it the only half-ton pickup in the U.S offering a diesel. It is likely the 4.5L PowerStroke V6 used in the 2006-newer Ford LCF commercial cab-over truck (itself built on a Ford SuperDuty frame). This engine makes 200 HP and 285 LB-FT of torque.

[edit] Super Duty Pickups

[edit] What is a "Super Duty"?

Super Duties are built at the Louisville 'Kentucky Truck Plant' (KTP). The KTP opened in 1969 and is now exclusively responsible for only building the Super Duty line, which includes models F-250 thru F-550 (but we will mostly be discussing the F-250/F-350 Super Duty models here). The KTP did build the Ford Excursion SUV too (which was based off of the 1st generation F-250 Super Duty platform) until it was discontinued in 2005.

Unlike the totally different F-150 which is built at the 'Kansas City Assembly' (KCA) plant in Claycomo Missouri. The KCA opened in 1951 and is now exclusively responsible for building the fameous F-150 along side the Ford Escape & the Mazda Tribute.

The Super Duty trucks are larger heavier built commercial/industrial series pickup trucks with heavier frames and all heavier/bigger components (with much higher payload and towing capacities) than the traditional F-250/F-350 & F-250HD (Heavy Duty) Ford truck lines. In appearance, the Super Duty line might look a little similar to but does not share any of the build characteristics of the F-150 either, hence the two different plants they are built at. A 1999 F-250 Super Duty would easily surpass the 1998 F-350 in all catagories. The Ford Super Duty is basically Ford's response to the Chevy/GMC 'HD' and the Dodge Ram 'Heavy Duty' series pickups.

[edit] 1st Generation (1999–2004)

Starting in 1999, new F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks were introduced. This 1st generation is identifiable by 3 body badges that contain the chrome numbers/letters on a black background (opposite of the 2nd generation).

The Super Duty had several available engines. A 2 valve 5.4L V-8 (260HP & 350TQ) gas was standard, the 2 valve 6.8L V-10 (310HP & 425TQ) gas was an option. There were 2 Powerstroke single-turbo Diesel engines that were options also. A 7.3L V-8 Powerstroke (235HP & 500TQ) turbo Diesel engine was available from 1999-2003. The 6.0L V8 Powerstroke (325HP & 550TQ) with a variable-vane turbo was phased in starting in 2003.

There were 3 transmissions available too. A 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 4-speed automatic (model #4R100).

A new standard of comfortable interiors was introduced with these models from Ford, and big capacities for towing and commercial applications were standard. These trucks were styled distinctly for the first time from the smaller Ford F-150 half-ton pickups. They did not share components with the F-150 platform, though it was still considered an F-series truck. Instead of the aero look, it was more boldly angular with a raised hood and lowered fenders, somewhat like fender / hood medium truck style pioneered by the 90s Dodge Ram pickup. An industry first 2 big massive ring-style tow hooks. The side windows went lower forward in the door like a commercial medium to heavy duty truck (similar to a Kenworth), and the grille was also narrower and tall as if from a larger truck. There were three cab options: Standard (2-3 passengers) with two doors, SuperCab (5-6 passengers) with reverse-opening small rear doors, and the crew cab with four full doors and seats for 4-6 people. The Super and Crew cabs came with 6.5' and 8' full-size bed options, but the Standard cab was only available with the 8' bed. The Super Duty would also be the base platform for the short-lived Ford Excursion which was the only passenger SUV larger than the Chevrolet Suburban and its twin, the GMC Yukon XL.^[3]

For 2001, the crew cab long bed had a 172.4 in wheelbase, was 262 in long (a full size car is 205-215 inches long), 79.9 in wide, 80.6 in high, with a curb weight of 5741 lb, payload of 3144 lb, 38 gal fuel tank, and seating for six. The extended cab short bed was 231.4 in long, with a wheelbase of 141.8 in, with the largest standard payload of any Super Duty of 4,640 lb. (a Dodge Caravan or Honda Pilot can carry about 1000 lb).^[4]

99-04 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4x4

99-04 Ford F-350 Dually

2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty FX4 (4x4)

[edit] 2nd Generation (2005–2007)

For 2005 Ford's commercial pickup truck series the "Super Duty" (SD) model was totally refreshed. On the outside, the 1st and 2nd generation Super Duty look basically the same, but this generation has major strength improvements. This generation is identifiable by 3 body badges that contain the black numbers/letters on a chrome background (opposite of the 1st generation). Also identifiable by a body badge on the bottom left and the blue Ford oval on the bottom right of the tailgate.

Major changes over the previous generation of Super Duties includes increased payload & towing capacities, a new taller grille, new interior, standard locking tailgate, 10-17% thicker partially boxed frame, upgraded & larger 4-wheel disc brakes with twin caliper pistons, upgraded engines, upgraded automatic transmission option, an all new optional built-into-dash 'TowCommand' TBC (Trailer Brake Controller) that is fully integrated with the trucks computer and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), an all new optional built-into-dash 4 AUX upfitter switches (for adding off road lights, winches, plows or other aftermarket items), telescoping trailer tow mirrors, and etc.

The front suspension on 4x4's continued to use a solid front Dana axle, but switched from leaf springs to coils which decreased the turning radius to 50' & added a steering stabilizer (shock absorber) bar. On 4x4 models (a $3,000 option over the 4x2 models) you still have a choice of manual transfer case floor shifter with manual ('LOCK'/'FREE') hubs or Electronic-Shift-on-the-Fly (a $185 option over the manual) dash knob with vacuum activated auto or (incase of failure) manual override ('AUTO'/'LOCK') hubs. For all 4x4 models, the 'Get The Job Done' massive stump pulling 4x4 LOW range has a gear reduction of 3.71:1 as compared to the 4x4/4x2 High of 1:1.

The 2 previous gas engines were upgraded from the old 2 valve to a new 3 valve per cylinder. Standard was the 5.4L V8 (300HP & 365TQ) and an option was 6.8L V10 (362HP & 457TQ). The 6.0L V8 Powerstroke single-turbo Diesel (a $5,300 option over the standard 5.4L V8 gas) was also modified, boosting torque to 570ft/lb, but horsepower remained the same as previous versions with 325 horsepower. Due to high warranty exposure, 2007 was the last year for the 6.0L V8 Powerstroke Diesel.

Only two transmission are available. The standard 6-speed manual & the optional all new TorqShift 5-speed automatic overdrive (model #5R110W; a $1490 option) with Tow/Haul mode replaces the problematic 4-speed auto (model #4R100) used in the 1st generation.

Choices of Non-Limited Slip or Limited Slip rear axles in 3.73, 4.10, & 4.30 ratios. You have a choice of 17" or 18" 8-lug wheels. The Harley Davidson model comes with 20" 8-lug wheels. On 8' long bed models the fuel tank capacity is 38 gallons and the 6.5' short bed models are 29 gallons. All Super Duty window stickers read "Fuel economy ratings not required on this vehicle" in the fuel economy section due to its high GVWR. But the typical fuel economy for the 5.4L is 12-14 mpg, 6.8L is 10-12 mpg, and 6.0L is 16-18 mpg. Depending on models the optional 'Built Ford Tough Trailer Hitch Receiver' comes with a 2" or 2.5" Class V receiver and 4/7-pin in either 12,500 or 15,000 lbs. All Super Duties come with a Towing Package standard that includes an external oil and transmission coolers installed reguardless if the factory hitch receiver was ordered or not. Depending on model and options, the empty (curb) title weight is 6,000-8,000 lbs.

Approx payload capacities are 3000 lbs for the F-250 Super Duty, 4000 lbs for the F-350 Super Duty with Single Rear Wheels (SRW), and 5800 lbs for the F-350 Super Duty with Dual Rear Wheels (DRW). This generation of Super Duties basically have exactly double the payload capacity as compaired to the older traditional non-Super Duty F-250 & F-350 trucks. By direct comparison to the F-250 SD the Chevy 2500HD/GMC 2500HD is rated at 2800 lbs and the Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty is rated at only 2100 lbs payload capacity. By comparison other basic trucks like the Honda Ridgeline, Nissan Titan, Mitsubishi Raider, Mazda B-series, and the Toyota Tundra have only up to a 1500 lbs max payload capacity and do not offer a full sized bed.

Approx towing capacity for the F-350 Super Duty is up to 19200 lbs max. By direct compairson Dodge Ram 3500 Heavy Duty is rated at 16,400 max and Chevy/GMC 3500HD is at 16,500 max. By comparison other basic trucks like the Honda Ridgeline has 4800 lbs max, the Mitsubishi Raider has 6500 lbs max, the Nissan Titan has 9000 lbs max, the smaller Toyota Tacoma has 3500 max, and the bigger Toyota Tundra has 10500 lbs max towing capacity.

[edit] 3rd Generation (2008– )

The Super Duty truck was going to be completely redesigned for the 2007 model year, but it was recently announced that quality issues will push it back to a 2008 model.^[5] The new 2008 model will introduce a new 6.4 L twin-turbo Power Stroke Diesel V8 with piezo fuel injectors to replace the problematic 6.0 L Power Stroke single-turbo Diesel V8. The new engine is said to produce 350 hp (260 kW) and 650 ft·lb of torque (880 N·m).^[6] The 2 gas engines remains the exact same from the 2nd generation.

Starting in 2007 (but actually titled the 2008), Ford released photos of the 3rd generation Super Duty. This generation is identifiable by the words "Super Duty" stamped into the top of the grille and lower tailgate area. Also identifiable by the blue Ford oval in the middle of the tailgate. The vehicle had its first official showing at the Texas State Fair in 2006. The new Super Dutys will arrive in dealers in early 2007 as 2008 models.

This 3rd generation basically has the same payload and towing specs as the 2nd generation.

Located in the exact same area as the last generation, this generation of Super Duty has the exact same optional 'TowCommand' TBC (Trailer Brake Controller) and optional 4 AUX Upfitter switches as the last generation set-up. Except for one minor detail, the TBC is on the left side and the 4 AUX switches are on the right side (opposite of the last generation). This new set-up makes it easier for the driver to access the TBC to change +/- gains while driving.

Some unique points to highlight will be the availability of the all new F-450 with a regular production pickup bed, which was only offered as a chassis cab before. Another notable feature is a concealed slide-out step and swing-up hand grab bar ($375 option) in the rear tailgate to allow easier access. No other truck in this range offers these features.

The new F-450 with the optional 'High Capacity Trailer Tow Package' with a 4.88 axle ratio will have a maximum towing capacity of 24,500 pounds. Maximum payload is 6120 lbs. It comes standard with Crew Cab, 8' long bed, dual rear wheels, Limited Slip axles, and 19.5" wheels. The only engine offered in the F-450 will be a 4 valve 6.4L V8 Power Stroke twin-turbo diesel, producing 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm. The F-450 will be equipped with a standard 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed TorqShift automatic transmissions.

[edit] F-series in the south of South America.

Argentina and Brazil consider the Latin American countries in where but I make and sold Ford F-Series, as much for the local market as for export (inside and outside the MERCOSUR). In Argentina the antecedents go back to 1948 when from the U.S.A. they were engaged in the first Pickups and due to his success, in 1959 began to make them in Buenos-Aires until year 1999. All the Pickups Ford of F-Series has an almost identical appearance to those of the U.S.A. whereas the design of the mechanics and comfort was totally different, and all the models were sent with a year of posteriority after sending itself in the U.S.A. In Brazil, pickups which they did not come from Argentina did not use to have much similar with their North American pairs except for the first models and the present ones. From 1999 to the present time F-Series of the MERCOSUR makes in Brazil. Nowadays these two countries continue being the main producers of Pickups of all Latin America, Or are F-Series, Ranger or Courier. In Argentina pickups Ford full-size of the present time (F-250) is continued calling Ford F100, this it is the only country which never I leave of denomination "100", in Brazil was called F100 and F1000 before 1999 and later happened to be called F250.

Engines that equipped pickups of local production:

Argentineans:

Gas engines:

• Inline-six: 188, 221 cubic inch, 3.6-litre E-Max and 4.9-litre.
• V6: 4.2-litre.
• V8: 292 cubic inch, and 292 cubic inch “Fase-Dos”

Diesel and Turbodiesel:

• Inline-six/four: Perkins, MWM, Cummins, Maxion.

Brazilian:

Gas engines:

• Inline-four: 2.3-litre.
• Inline-six: 4.9-litre.
• V6: 4.2-litre.
• V8: 292 cubic inch.

Diesel and Turbodiesel:

• Inline-six/four: MWM, Cummins, Maxion.

[edit] Notes

• Ford also manufactures F-Series medium-duty trucks (F-650, F-750). School bus chassis versions are sold as B-Series trucks.

• In Argentina and Brazil, until it does few years, the gasoline engines came prepared from factory with slight modifications to also use them with alternative fuels "álcool etílico/Ethanol" and "Gas Natural Comprimido". The Biodiesel also is used in diesel engines.

• Prior to the F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks, Ford offered F-700, F-800 and F-900 medium-duty trucks that retained the door and aft cab (A-pillar back) style and structure from the previous generation F-Series, along with the dash and instrument cluster (from early 1980s models).

• A F-8000 was also produced based off the Ford Cargo cab-over range, which was similar to the 2006 and newer Ford LCF.

[edit] Gallery

A 2005 F350 King Ranch Super Duty	Ford F250 U-Haul truck in Hampton, VA.	Ford F-150 Super Crew	F350 modified as an Irish Army Special Reconnaissance Vehicle
04-06 F-150 SuperCab flareside

[edit] Footnotes

1. ^ ^{a b} "Ford's F-Series sets industry truck sales records, Ford-trucks.com, January 4, 2006
2. ^ Pickuptruck.com "In 2005..Combined, Chevy/GMC bested Ford by about 34,000 units."
3. ^ [1] 1999 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4x4 Pickup: Big Is Beautiful
4. ^ [2] Consumer Guide website
5. ^ Ford delays launch of 2007 F-Series Super Duty. AutoInsiderNews.com. Retrieved on May 26, 2006.
6. ^ Ford's 2008 Super Duty getting a face-lift. Edmunds.com. Retrieved on April 6, 2006.

[edit] References

• A Ford F-Series History. Edmunds.com. Retrieved on November 8, 2004.

[edit] External links

• The Truth About Trucks - Ford F-150 compaired to the competition (videos/sound)
• Ford BOLDMOVES - Documenting The Future of Ford (videos/sound)
• Ford Super Duty TowCommand TBC (video/sound)
• Ford Super Duty TowCommand TBC
• 2005 Super Duty review
• FORDification.com - The '67-'72 Ford Pickup Resource
• thedieselstop.com - the ford-diesel website
• F150online.com - Ford F150 Enthusiast Site
• Ford F-150 info page on Ford Motor Company site
• All F-Series trucks forums, photos, articles and specifications
• Ford F150 and other Fords user (owner's) manuals archive
• Ford F150 Community
• National Lightning Owners Club (NLOC)
• National Harley Truck Owners Club (NHTOC)
• SVT-Trucks, a website dedicated to Ford SVT trucks
• Lightning Rodder On-line Magazine
• Ford F-250 "Super Chief" Concept Truck press release
• Ford F150 .net - Ford F150 Forums, Specifications, and Photos

Ford Motor Company light truck timeline, North American market, 1980s-present -  v • d • e
Type	1980s										1990s										2000s
	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9
Compact SUV					Bronco II																	Escape
Crossover SUV																												Edge
																										Freestyle			Taurus X
Mid-size SUV												Explorer
Full-size SUV	Bronco																Expedition
																					Excursion									Flex
Minivan																Windstar									Freestar
Pickup	F-Series
	Courier			Ranger
Van							Aerostar
	E-Series