Ford F-Series Totally Explained

Everything about Ford F-series totally explained

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 best-selling truck for 31 years, though this doesn't include combined sales of GM pickup trucks. Analysts estimate that the F-Series alone makes up half of the Ford Motor Company's profits in recent years. In the 10th generation of the F-series, Ford split the F-150 & F-250/350 into two different body styles. The new F-250/F-350 and as of 2007 F-450 is called the Super Duty. Please Note that the F-250 and up (1999-Present) are located here: Super Duty.

First generation (1948–1952)

The first F-Series truck (known as the Ford Bonus-Built) from Ford was introduced in 1948, replacing the company's previous car-based pickup line. It was a modern-looking truck with a flat, one-piece windshield and integrated headlights. Options were the "See-Clear" windshield washer (operated by foot plunger), passenger side windshield wiper & sun visor, and passenger side taillight. The F-1 truck was also available with additional chrome and two horns as an option. All F-series were available in "Marmon-Herrington All Wheel Drive" until 1959.
Design of the F-Series truck changed little from 1948 to 1952. From 1948-1950, the grill was a series of horizontal bars and the headlights were set into the fenders. For 1951 and 1952, the headlights were connected by a wide aerodynamic cross piece with three similarly aerodynamic supports. The rear window was wider in the later trucks and the dashboard was redesigned.
F-series trucks were built at sixteen different Ford plants. Serial numbers indicate the truck model, engine, year, assembly plant, and unit number. The most common model was the F-1 with a 6-1/2' bed followed by the F-2 and F-3 Express models with an 8' bed. The models are:

F-1: 1/2 ton (4,700 GVWR max)

F-2: 3/4 ton (5,700 GVWR max)

F-3: Heavy Duty 3/4 ton (6,800 GVWR max)

F-3: Parcel Delivery (7,000 GVWR max) & optional rear spring pkg (7,800 GVWR max)

F-4: 1 ton (7,500 GVWR max) & optional 1 1/4 ton pkg (10,000 GVWR max)

F-5: 1 1/2 ton: Conventional, school bus, and cab over engine (C.O.E.) (10,000-14,500 GVWR)

F-6: 2 ton: Conventional, school bus, and C.O.E. (14,000-16,000 GVWR)

F-7: Conventional (17,000-19,000 GVWR)

F-8: Conventional (20,000-22,000 GVWR) Engines:

1948–1951: Flathead 6 (L-head) (H or Rouge 226), @ 3,300 rpm in F-1 through F-6

1948–1952: Flathead V-8 (R or Rouge 239), @ 3,800 rpm in F-1 through F-6

1952–1953: Straight-6 (overhead valve),

1948–1951: Flathead 6 (L-head) (M or Rouge 254), @ 3,400 rpm in the F-6 only

1948–1951: Flathead V-8 (E or Rouge 337). @ 3,600 rpm in F-7 and F-8 only

1952–1955: overhead valve V8 (EAL), @ 3,800 rpm in F-7 only

1952–1955: overhead valve V8 (EAM), @ 3,900 rpm in F-8 only Transmissions:

3-speed light duty, F-1 only

3-speed heavy duty, F-1 through F-5

4-speed (spur gear), F-1 through F-6

4-speed Synchro-Silent, F-4 through F-6

5-speed overdrive, F-7 and F-8

5-speed direct drive, F-7 and F-8 Image:1950 Ford F6.jpg|1950 F-6 with a 254 cu in straight-six Image:1951_Ford_f2.jpg|1951 F-2 with 226 cu in flathead six

Second generation (1953–1956)

The F-Series was redesigned for 1953 with a more integrated look. The pickups also acquired their familiar names: The F-1 now became the F-100, the F-2 now became the F-250, and the F-3 now became the 1 ton F-350. Starting on the 1956 models, Ford offers the very rare "Low GVWR" versions of each model. Interior amenities were new, including a dome light, lighter, arm rests, and sun visors. On March 13, 1953, "Ford-O-Matic" automatic transmissions became an option.
Second generation trucks were built in Brazil from 1957 to 1962 as the F-100, F-350 and F-600. The models are:

F-100: 1/2 ton (5,000 GVWR max)

F-110: 1/2 ton (4,000 GVWR max)

F-250: 3/4 ton (7,400 GVWR max)

F-260: 3/4 ton (4,900 GVWR max)

F-350: 1 ton (9,800 GVWR max)

F-360: 1 ton (7,700 GVWR max)

F-500

F-900 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)

The 1954 Ford

The 1954 ford truck had the new over head valve V8 engine this had 230ci and a this was called the "Power King". 1954 also had the 215ci engine with the over head valve V6 was out for a year before in 1953 but it had a bore increase in power. 1954 had a lot of other good options such as power steering, which increased steering by 50%. This was only on the "Big Job". Power brakes where optional as well as turn indicators. The 1954 model is considered the start of the F-150 series reign of high quality trucks. The Canadian F-Series and M-Series (Mercury trucks) maintained the Flatheat engines for 1954.

Third generation (1957–1960)

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 drive-train, which was once outsourced to Marmon-Herrington is now produced in-house by Ford Motor Company in 1959 to the present time. Ford still offers a "Low GVWR" version of each model. In May 1957 Ford discontinued making all trucks at the Highland Park Ford Plant in Highland Park, Michigan. All heavy trucks were transferred to the Kentucky Truck Assembly in Louisville, Kentucky. All light and medium trucks were transferred to 10 other plants in the USA.
Third generation trucks were built in Brazil as the F-100, F-350 & F-600 from 1962 to 1971. The models are:

F-100 (F10, F11, F14): 1/2 ton (4,000-5,000 GVWR max)

F-100 (F18, F19)(4X4): 1/2 ton (4,000-5,600 GVWR max)

F-250 (F25, F26): 3/4 ton (4,900-7,400 GVWR max)

F-250 (F28, F29)(4X4): 3/4 ton (4,900-7,400 GVWR max)

F-350 (F35, F36): 1 ton (7,700-9,800 GVWR max)

F-500 (F50, F51), : 1 1/2 ton (10,000-15,000 GVWR max) Engines:

1958-1960 - 223 in³ (3.7 L) I6, 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)

Fourth generation (1961–1966)

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 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. Ford still offers a "Low GVWR" version of each model.
In 1965, the name "Ranger" is first introduced as a styling package for the F-Series pickup trucks. Then later (1981) the name Ranger is used for Ford's compact series trucks; a non F-Series American competition for the foreign truck market at the time.
In 1965, the 4.9L straight-6 was introduced. It had 7 main bearings and timing gears (no chain or belt). The models are:

F-100 (F10, F11, F14): 1/2 ton (4,000-5,000 GVWR max)

F-100 (F18, F19)(4X4): 1/2 ton (4,000-5,600 GVWR max)

F-250 (F25): 3/4 ton (7,400 GVWR max)

F-250 (F26)(4X4): 3/4 ton (4,900 GVWR max)

F-350 (F35): 1 ton (9,800 GVWR max)

F-500 (F50): 1 1/2 ton (15,000 GVWR max) 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)

Fifth generation (1967–1972)

Another refresh came in 1967 along with a familiar name: the upscale Ranger trim line in addition to the base and Custom Cab trim levels. In 1968, federal regulations required all automotive manufacturers to add side marker reflectors or lights, so Ford redesigned the hood emblems to incorporate reflectors. The same year the trucks received larger versions of Ford's FE engine family with the introduction of the 360 and 390 cubic inch engines which are among the smallest class of Big Block Motors. 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.
   Some trucks came with an outer flush mounted bed side compartment/tool box on the passenger side only.
   After the 1968 models, Ford discontinued the "Low GVWR" versions. The Explorer Special (a trim package), Camper Special (built heavier for a slide in camper), Contractor's Special, Farm and Ranch Special, and Heavy-Duty Special were offered during this period.
   The fifth-generation F-series was introduced in Brazil in 1971, which remained in production until circa 1992 with a slight redesign and changes in its motorizations.
   The Explorer and Ranger trim names were the name sake for the current-production Ford Explorer SUV and the soon-to-be discontinued compact Ford Ranger, which shares the same platform with the Ford Explorer. The models are:

F-100: 1/2 ton (5,600 GVWR max)

F-110: 1/2 ton (4X4)(4,200 GVWR max)

F-250: 3/4 ton (7,500 GVWR max)

F-260: 3/4 ton (4X4)(4,800 GVWR max)

F-350: 1 ton (10,000 GVWR max)

F-360: 1 ton (4X4)(6,000 GVWR max)

F-500: 1 1/2 ton

F-501: 1 1/2 ton (10,000 GVWR max)

F-600

F-700

F-750

F-800 Engines:

1967-1972 - 240 in³ (3.9 L) straight-6, 150 hp

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, 270-335 hp

1969-1972 - 302 in³ (5.0 L) Windsor V8, 220 hp (164 kW)

Sixth generation (1973–1979)

The truck was redesigned 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" spaced 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/turn signal 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 for the regular Ranger and Custom trim levels. The XLT and "Lariat" trim level incorporated rectangular headlights with optional chrome headlight doors and chrome grille insert. 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/turn signal lamps were now placed below the headlights. A luxury Lariat trim was also introduced for 1978. In 1979, the round headlights were replaced by rectangular headlamps across all the trim levels 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.
   In 1973, a new model was offered, the F350 SRW (single rear wheel) pickup. These were a new heavy duty pickup with contractors and camping enthusiasts in mind. The trucks rode on a longer wheel base chassis but were the same overall length as an F250 pickup. If you ordered the Camper Special package on an F350 SRW it became a Super Camper Special which was designed for the much heavier slide-in campers coming on the market at that time. Other changes included the 1974 introduction of the extended super cab version. The F-150 was introduced in 1975 to help circumvent coming emissions requirements. These came with a maximum payload of when properly equipped. With the 1/2 ton F-100 still in production, the new F-150 was referred to as the "heavy half" ton by some people.
   In 1976, the F-series became the best-selling truck in America, a position it has continued to hold since. This generation is noted for the durability of the body panels as Ford used extensive amounts of galvanized sheet metal to fight corrosion. 1977 was the first year for smaller cowl insignias moved near the windshield and the last year for the medium-duty F-500.
   The GVRW ratings for these trucks was tied to a combination of wheel, spring, axle and brake combinations. The series code on the ID tag denote which model and from that it can be determined what weight rating each vehicle is as there's quite a range for some models. 4X4 trucks can also be identified by the VIN number and on the ID plate as a serial number beginning F10 is an F100 2 wheel drive but an F11 is an F100 4X4. F25/F26 etc... Also note that serial numbers beginning with an X are SuperCab models
   In the 2007 film No Country For Old Men, Llewelyn Moss, played by Josh Brolin, drive a yellow and black 1977 F-150. Because the film is set in 1980, F-150's of the Sixth Generation are seen many times. The dead drug dealers, Llewelyn finds drove 1976 F-150s. Llewelyn is even chased across the desert by Mexican outlaws driving a black F-150. The models are:

F100 F101 F102 F103 F104 F105 F106 F107 F108 F109 F10N: 1/2 ton (4,550-5,700 GVWR max)

F110 F111 F112 F113 : 1/2 ton (4X4)(5,250-6,500 GVWR max)

F150 F151 : "heavy" 1/2 ton (6,050-6,200 GVWR max)

F140 F141 F142 F143: "heavy" 1/2 ton (6,050-6,500 GVWR max)

F250 F251 F252 F253 F254 F255 F256 F257 F258 F259: 3/4 ton (6,200-8,100 GVWR max)

F260 F261 F262 F263 F264 F265 F266: 3/4 ton (4X4) (6,500-8,400 GVWR max)

F350 F350 F351 F352 F353 F354 F355 F356 F357 F358 F359 F35P: 1 ton (6,000-10,000 GVWR max)

F-360: 1 ton (4X4) (8,550 GVWR max)

F-500: 1 1/2 ton (until 1977)

F-600

F-700

F-750

F-800 Engines:

1973-1977 - 240 in³ (3.9 L) straight-6, @ 4000 rpm

1973-1977 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6, @ 3000 rpm

1973-1977 - 352 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, 200-275 hp (not available in 4X4 models)

1977-1979 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) 335 V8, 150-163 hp (122 kW)

1977-1979 - 400 in³ (6.6 L) 335 V8, 169 hp (126 kW)

1978-1979 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6, 114 hp (85 kW) Image:73-75 Ford F-100 XLT.jpg|1973-1975 Ford F-100 XLT Image:73-77 Ford F-150 Explorer.jpg|1977 Ford F-150 Explorer

Seventh generation (1980–1986)

The next major redesign came in 1980. The new truck had a squarer look, with sharp lines and flat panels. It was also the Ford's first use of an independent front suspension on 4X4 models. The Ranger trim line was dropped from the F-Series in 1982, since that name was to be applied to the new Ford Ranger compact pickup, which replaced the Ford Courier mini-pickup line. Trim options were now XL, XLS, XLT, and XLT Lariat. In 1982 the letters F-O-R-D were removed from the hood and a blue oval logo appeared on the grille
   The big-block 460 in³ V8 was dropped for 1980, but added again in 1983 along with the 6.9L V8 diesel option. In 1982, the 335-series "Cleveland" V8s were discontinued. The 351M was replaced by the 351 Windsor (an older design that now made its debut in light trucks), while the 400 vanished altogether (Ford's competitors had ceased selling engines in that size range a few years before). The 5.0L V8 switched over to fuel injection, first as an option in 1985 and then altogether in 1986.
   The new Essex V6 was added in 1982, but dropped after 1983 and the 300 inline six continued as the standard engine through the series.
   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 F-Series truck for 1984. This generation also saw extensive use of galvanized body panels to fight corrosion which is now gaining them popularity among restorers.
   The various changes that occurred between the 1981 and 1982 model years were accompanied by a slight cosmetic change- 1980-81 trucks have a plain grille with "FORD" spelled across the front of the hood in chrome letters, similar to the previous model. 1982-86 models had the letters removed, and a Ford blue oval placed in the center of the grille. This made the 1982 the first model year to feature a blue oval on the front, something that has been on every model that followed it. Also this generation saw many trim levels: 1980-1981:
CUSTOM-This was the base model with manual locks/windows, vinyl seat and black rubber floor mat. RANGER- The intermediate trim level that added a color keyed floor mat, some extra chrome, and woodtone dash trim. RANGER XLT- A step up from the RANGER that added nicer seat trim, a color keyed headliner, color keyed carpeting, aluminum tailgate trim and optional power windows/locks. RANGER LARIAT- a step above the XLT that added a plusher interior. 1982-1986:
STANDARD- basically the same as the CUSTOM of the 1980-1981 years. XL- this is basically a new name for the intermediate RANGER trim level for 1982 as the name "RANGER" is now used for Ford's new compact truck. XLS- a new for '82 trim level that featured a blacked out brille, bumpers and headlight trim. It also featured a stripe graphics package and black and silver dash trim. Available exterior colors were red and black. XLT LARIAT- the top of the line truck for '82 which featured floor carpeting, color keyed headliner, a standard chrome grille, and optional power windows/door locks. In 1985 the tailgate trim was changed to a "flat" full width aluminum with a red "reflector" towards the bottom with chrome FORD letters. In Mexico, there's an "F-200" which was introduced in 1976. This variant ran the remainder of the eighth generation until 1991. The models are:

F-100: 1/2 ton

F-150: heavy 1/2 ton

F-250: 3/4 ton (HD 8600 GVWR Max)

F-350: 1 ton

F-600

F-700

F-800 Engines:

1982-1983 - 232 in³ (3.8 L) Essex V6

1980-1981 - 255 in³ (4.2 L) Windsor V8

1980-1986 - 300 in³ (4.9 L) straight-6

1980-1985 - 302 in³ (5.0 L) Windsor V8

1985-1986 - 302 in³ (5.0 L) V8, Windsor FI,

1980-1982 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) Ford 335 engine#351 V8

1983-1986 - 351 in³ (5.8 L) V8 Windsor

1980-1982 - 400 in³ (6.6 L) 335 series V8

1983-1986 - 460 in³ (7.5 L) 385 series V8, 245 hp (183 kW)

1983-1986 - 6.9 L Navistar Diesel V8, 170 hp (127 kW)

Eighth generation (1987–1991)

The 1987 design was more streamlined, and maintenance items were made simpler. Rear antilock brakes were now standard, and 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 V8 with a 7.3 L International Harvester IDI diesel V8(now making . and . of torque).
Four wheel drive improvements included the addition of automatic locking hubs for the F-150 in 1989, and for the rest in 1991. Starting in 1980 (to 1996), Ford offered a four-wheel-drive swing arm independent front suspension called Twin-Traction Beam, or TTB. Based on its I-beam suspension from the mid '60s, Ford mounted a Dana differential in the driver-side (front) axle beam and transmitted torque to the passenger-side wheel with a double U-jointed axleshaft. Radius arms and coil springs were still used on the F-150's, while the four-wheel-drive F-250s and F-350s got leaf springs. The 5.0 L truck also had an optional "Touch Drive" electronic transfer case. Custom, XL, XLT, and XLT Lariat were the trim options available. Towards the end of this generation, there was the addition of the behind cab cargo light.
The "F-Super Duty" (which is exactly what the front fender badges stated) models appeared from 1987 to 1997. They were basically an F-450. They were used mostly for wreckers/tow trucks but also used in ambulances and various commercial/industrial vehicles. 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 gauge. It came with a PTO (Power Take-Off) used to power attachments (like winches or a dump bed) from the transmission. They were rated at approx GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). They came with either the standard 7.5 L gas V8 or the optional 7.3 L diesel V8. All wheels were 10-lug with DRW (Dual Rear Wheels). This model shouldn't to be confused with the "Super Duty" commercial line of trucks starting with the 1999 model year. The models are:

F-150: 1/2 ton (6,250 GVWR max)

F-250: 3/4 ton (8,800 GVWR max)

F-350: 1 ton (11,000 GVWR max)

F-Super Duty: 1 ton plus (15,000 GVWR max)

F-600

F-700

F-800 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 (31ft·lbf) (127 kW)

1987 - 7.5 L 460 V8, 245 hp (183 kW)

1988-1991 - 460 7.5 L V8, EFI,

1988-1991 - 7.3 L International IDI Diesel V8,

1988-1991 - Windsor 5.8 L V8, EFI,

Ninth generation (1992–1996/1997)

The 1992 truck received a new aerodynamic-looking front end, a new dashboard, and the flareside bed returned. The Lightning Performance Truck appeared in 1992, 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 models are:

F-150: 1/2 ton (6,250 GVWR max)

F-250: 3/4 ton (6,600 GVWR max)

F-250 HD: 1992-1997 Heavy Duty 3/4 ton (9,000 GVWR max)

F-350: 1 ton (10,000 GVWR max)

F-Super Duty: 1 ton plus (15,000 GVWR max)

F-550 unknown

F-600

F-700

F-800 Engines:

1992-1996 - 4.9 L straight-6, electronic fuel injection EFI, 4-speed manual transmission

1992-1996 - 4.9 L straight-6, FI,

1992-1997 - 7.5 L V8, FI,

1992-1994 - 7.3 L IDI Diesel V8, /360 ft·lbf

1993-1994 - 7.3 L Turbo IDI Diesel V8, /395 ft·lbf

1992-1996 - 5.0 L Windsor V8, FI,

1992-1996 - 5.8 L Windsor V8, FI,

1993-1995 - 5.8 L Windsor V8, FI, Lightning

1994.5-1997 - 7.3 L Power Stroke turbodiesel V8, /425 ft·lbf

Tenth generation (1997–2003)

In February 1997, Ford sold off its class 8 heavy truck ("AeroMax" & "Louisville") operations to Freightliner LLC which were renamed Sterling (from an early White Motors brand). This was so that Ford could dedicate its Kentucky Truck Assembly facility to a more profitable light truck production of the upcoming all new F-250 to F-550 Super Duty series. Ford re-entered the class 6 and 7 medium-heavy duty truck market in 1999 with the introduction of the F-650 & F-750 Super Duty built at the Blue Diamond Truck Company plant in Escobedo, Mexico (which is a 50/50 joint venture of Ford and Navistar). The F-150 was then assembled at 3 locations; the Kansas City Assembly in Claycomo, Missouri, at Norfolk Assembly in Norfolk, Virginia and at the Dearborn Truck plant (which is a part of the large River Rouge Plant complex) in Dearborn, Michigan.
   Ford took the aero styling to its conclusion for 1997 with an extremely round nose on the new F-series. The regular F-250 (light duty) was basically an F-150 with the same body panels but with heavy duty axles and suspension, along with odd 7 lug wheels. The F-250 HD (Heavy Duty) was considered in the same series as the F-350. With the arrival of the all new "Super Duty" series in early 1998, but labeled the 1999 model, the standard F-250 ('light duty'), F-250HD (Heavy Duty), & F-350 line was totally dropped and the F-250 (light duty) 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 new F-150 was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 1997 . 1997 also marked the introduction of Ford's modular Single Overhead cam (SOHC) engines into the F-150. The grille was updated in 1999 and the SuperCrew was added to the lineup in 2001. 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 has found that the cruise control system in many of their trucks could catch fire, because the switch system could corrode over time, overheat and ignite. Ignition was later blamed on spillage from the adjacent master cylinder. On March 5, 2007 Ford recalled 155,000 2003 full-size pickups and full-size SUVs for the defective part. During the previous two years Ford had recalled 5.8 million vehicles in because of the defective cruise control systems in trucks, SUVs and vans. That recall, one of the largest in history, covered vehicles from the 1994-2002 model years. The models are:

F-150: 1/2 ton (6,600 GVWR max)

F-250: 1999 3/4 ton (7,700 GVWR max)

F-250 Super Duty: 3/4 ton

F-350 Super Duty: 1 ton (11,200 GVWR max)

F-450 Super Duty: 1 1/4 ton chassis-cab only

F-550 Super Duty: 1 1/2 ton chassis-cab only (19,000 GVWR max)

F-650 Super Duty: oversized commercial truck cab (26,000 GVWR max)

F-750 Super Duty: oversized commercial truck cab (33,000 GVWR max) Engines:

1997-2003 - 4.2 L Essex V6, /252 ft·lbf

1997-1998 - 4.6 L Triton V8, /280 ft·lbf

1999-2003 - 4.6 L Triton V8, /293 ft·lbf

1995-1998 - 5.4 L Triton V8, /330 ft·lbf

1999-2003 - 5.4 L Triton V8, /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, /410 ft·lbf (Super Duty only)

2000-2003 - 6.8 L Triton V10, /425 ft·lbf (Super Duty only)

1999-2003 - 7.3 L Power Stroke turbo-Diesel V8, /525 ft·lbf (Super Duty only)

2003-2004 - 6.0 L Power Stroke turbo-Diesel V8, /560 ft·lbf (Super Duty only) Image:Ford-F150-SVT-Lightning.jpg|Ford F-150 SVT Lightning Image:Ford-F-150.jpg|1997-2001 Ford F-150 Image:Ford-F150-Harley.jpg|F-150 SuperCrew Harley Davidson edition

Eleventh generation (2004-2008)

In 2004, Ford redesigned the F-150 using the new P2 platform. The side windows also changed to a Kenworth "Daylight Door" and Ford Super Duty-like appearance; 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. This generation of F-150 is identifiable by the 3 total 'F-150' body badges with black numbers/letters on a chrome background (like the 2nd generation of Super Duty). This truck is also identifiable by the large blue Ford oval in the middle (like the 3rd generation of Super Duty) and the 'F-150' body badge to the left side on the tailgate.
   The F-250 and F-350 Ford Super Dutys are considered to be a totally different class (over GVWR) from the regular F-series lineup, even though they're also still considered an F-series.
   All F-Series now have the 2 massive "closed loop" front tow hook design as opposed to conventional open hooks, which may bend out or even break. The F-Series can pull up to . with just one hook.
   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 less expensive alternative to the more expensive new bodystyle.
   The new F-150 earned the North American Truck of the Year award for 2004 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.
   As a popular fleet vehicle, this generation of the F-Series has garnered a number of awards from fleet management professionals. The 2006 F-150 was named Fleet Truck of the Year by Automotive Fleet and Business Fleet magazines, and the 2007 models of the F-150, F-250 and F-350 were chosen Best Fleet Value vehicles in their respective categories by automotive data-analysis firm Vincentric. Winner of the 2006-2007 Golden Icon Award (presented by Travolta Family Entertainment) for "Best Truck".
   For 2007, Ford introduced a complement to the existing FX4 model, the new FX2 Sport package (this truck is a 2 wheel drive truck with an appearance package).
   The FX4 model is basically an Off Road 4x4. It has the same features as the standard 4x4 models plus better shocks, added skid plates (protecting the fuel tank and transfer case), 18" wheels with all terrain tires, ESOF (Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly) transfer case instead of the manual, a Limited Slip rear axle, and an 'FX4' decal on the back bed-side instead of the standard '4x4' one.
   The 2007 F-150 comes in 7 different models: XL (starting at $19,200), STX (starting at $21,905), XLT (starting at $24,205), FX4 (starting at $30,750), Lariat (starting at $30,750), King Ranch (starting at $36,350), & the Harley Davidson (starting at $37,210).
   For the 2007 F-150, depending on the model selected, there's a choice of 3 different gasoline engines & 2 different transmissions. Engine choices are a 4.2L EFI V6 (202 hp & 260TQ), a 4.6L EFI V8 (248 hp & 294TQ), and a 3-valve 5.4L Triton EFI V8 (300 hp & 365TQ). Transmission choices are a 5-speed manual (available only with the V6) or a 4-speed automatic (optional with the V6 and standard with either V8).
   Also for the 2007 F-150, the special optional 3-valve 5.4L Triton EFI V8 FFV (Flexible Fuel Vehicle) is available. A FFV is a vehicle that operates on a blend of fuel ethanol and unleaded gasoline, containing up to 85 percent fuel ethanol. Should fuel ethanol (E-85) not be immediately available, this vehicle can operate normally on unleaded gasoline.
   The 2007 F-150 has several options depending on the model. Choice of Limited Slip or non-Limited Slip in 3.31, 3.55, 3.73, 4.10:1 axle ratios. $350 for 'Trailer Tow Package' that includes a Class IV receiver, 7-pin wiring harness, upgraded radiator, and auxiliary transmission oil cooler. $1200 for 'Heavy Duty Payload Package'. $95 for the larger 35.7 gallon fuel tank. $645 for 'Deluxe Heated Seat Package'. $1295 for 'Rear seat DVD Entertainment System'. $995 for 'Power Moonroof'. $120 for 'Power Adjustable Pedals'. Just to name a few.
   Ford states a properly equipped 2007 F-150 (Long Wheel Base, 2WD model only) can now tow up to maximum and 1800-3050 lb maximum payload, though Ford hasn't indicated any design changes occurred to support the upgraded towing capacity numbers from the previous model years. The original tow rating of was raised to upon announcement of the new 2007 Chevrolet Silverado's maximum towing capacity. Ford again raised the F-150's maximum towing capacity number to upon announcement of the new 2007 Toyota Tundra's maximum towing capacity. The 2004-2008 F-150 model years are mechanically identical, and no technical explanation has been offered by Ford regarding the increase in tow ratings.
   The 2007 Lincoln Mark LT (starting at $39,050) is basically a high-end F-150 combined with luxury features.
   Ford has reported that a smaller diesel engine will be an option for the F-150 in the near future, making it the only half-ton pickup in the U.S offering a diesel. Ford recently had said it's going to be a 4.4L V8 derived from the euro-built 3.6L diesel that's currently used in Land Rovers. It has an estimated power output of 330 hp (246 kW) and 515 ft·lbf (698 N·m) of torque.
   The Eleventh Generation Ford F150 got top safety ratings from the NHSTA in frontal collisions. (5 stars)
   Saleen offers their own OEM version of the F-150, badged as the S331. Additionally, Roush offers an aftermarket version with similar hp. The Ford F-150 Foose Edition is said to overpower the Dodge Ram SRT-10 as stated in CarAndDriver.com. Beginning with the second half of the 2007 model year, Ford offers the Saleen forced-induction package on the Harley-edition as an OEM option.

Foose Edition

2008 Ford F-150 Foose Edition debuted in fall 2007 and went on sale in 2008. Based on Ford F-150 FX2 Sport, it uses a Roush-developed powertrain. This is supercharged and has and of torque.

Gallery

Image:Ford-F-150-SuperCrew.jpg|Ford F-150 Super Crew Image:Ford-F150-Flareside.jpg|Ford F-150 SuperCab flareside Image:04-07 Ford F-150 FX4 extended.jpg|Ford F-150 FX4

Twelfth generation (2009-)

Ford revealed the next generation 2009 F-150 design at the North American International Auto Show in January 2008. The vehicle features a larger and more flexible interior, an updated three-bar grille, and additional choices of cab styles and trim levels. The chassis includes a lighter-weight high strength steel for better fuel economy and safety, and improved payload and towing capacity. Initial engine offerings include three V8 configurations: a flexible fuel 5.4L 3-valve Triton that's E85 capable, a 4.6L 3-valve, and a 4.6L 2-valve. Late engine offerings for the 2010 model year also include a new 4.4 L diesel engine and an Ecoboost gas turbocharged direct injection V6.
The Lincoln Mark LT truck will be replaced by a Platinum edition F-150 in 2009.
The 2009 Ford F150 will feature front-seat side impact airbags and Ford's Safety Canopy System for the first and second rows as Head protection in the event of a side impact. It will also feature Ford's exclusive ADVANCETRAC RSC (Electronic Stability Control)

Further Information

Get more info on 'Ford F-series'.

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