The F-Series is a series of full-size pickup trucks from Ford Motor Company sold for over six decades. In the tenth generation of the F-series, the F-250 and F-350 changed body style in 1998 and joined the Super Duty series. First generation (1948–1952)
The first F-Series truck (known as the Ford Bonus-Built) 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 to 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 6½-foot bed followed by the F-2 and F-3 Express models with an 8-foot (2.4 m) 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)
Engines:
226 cu in (3.7 L) Straight-6
239 cu in (3.9 L) Flathead V8
254 cu in (4.2 L) Straight-6
337 cu in (5.5 L) Flathead V8
215 cu in (3.5 L) Straight-6
279 cu in (4.6 L) Y-block V8
317 cu in (5.2 L) Y-block V8
Transmissions:
3-speed manual
4-speed manual
5-speed manual
Second generation (1953–1956)
The F-Series was redesigned for 1953 with a more integrated look. The pickups also acquired their now 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. Optional interior amenities were new, including a dome light, lighter, arm rests, sun visors and a radio. On March 13, 1953, "Ford-O-Matic" automatic transmissions became an option. The 1953 F-100 was the last year for the flathead in the US. Canadian models, however, (Mercury M-Series), retained the flathead. 1954 saw the introduction of the new 239 CID overhead valve Y-block 8-cylinder, dubbed "Power King." The six-cylinder engine's displacement was also increased from 215 to 223 CID and power steering was introduced as an option. In 1955 the 239 Y-block was replaced with the 272 and 292. The 1956 F-100 is a one-year only body style. The 1956 F-100 is easily identified as it has vertical windshield pillars and a wrap around windshield as opposed to the sloped pillars and angled windshield of the 1953-55. The 1956 model also offered a larger wrap-around back window as an option. Models:
F-100: 1/2 ton (5,000 GVWR max)
F-250: 3/4 ton (7,400 GVWR max)
F-350: 1 ton (9,800 GVWR max)
Engines:
215 CID (3.5 L) I6
223 CID (3.7 L) Mileage Maker I6
239 CID (3.9 L) Flathead V8
239 CID (3.9 L) Y-block V8
272 CID (4.5 L) Y-block V8
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 previously outsourced to Marmon-Herrington, was produced in-house by Ford Motor Company beginning in 1959. Models:
F-100: 1/2 ton (5,000 GVWR max)
F-250: 3/4 ton (7,400 GVWR max)
F-350: 1 ton (9,800 GVWR max)
Engines:
223 CID (3.7 L) Mileage Maker I6
272 CID (4.5 L) Y-block V8
292 CID (4.8 L) Y-block V8
Fourth generation (1961–1966)
The truck was completely redesigned for 1961 with a wider look, and unibody trucks were available, built with an integrated cab and box, from 1961 to 1963. From 1964 on, only the traditional separate cab and bed arrangement were available. Power was over 200 hp (150 kW) with the 1965 update of the powertrain. In 1965, the Twin I-Beam front suspension was introduced with coil springs and the 300 replaced the 223. 1965 also marked the beginning of a completely different chassis and many parts from 65-79 interchange such as brakes and motor mounts. 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. The Camper Special was built heavier for the slide in campers that were becoming increasingly popular during this time. In 1965, the name "Ranger" is first introduced as a styling package for the F-Series pickup trucks using mustang bucket seats and a curtain over the gas tank. Then later (1982) the name Ranger is used for Ford's compact series trucks. In 1965, the 300-cubic inch (4.9 L) straight six was introduced (a larger version of the 240-cubic inch Six). It had 7 main bearings and timing gears (no chain or belt). Models:
F-100 (F10, F11, F14): 1/2 ton (4,000–5,000 GVWR max)
F-100 (F18, F19)(4×4): 1/2 ton (4,000–5,600 GVWR max)
F-250 (F25): 3/4 ton (7,400 GVWR max)
F-250 (F26)(4×4): 3/4 ton (4,900 GVWR max)
F-350 (F35): 1 ton (9,800 GVWR max)
Engines:
223 CID (3.7 L) I6
292 CID (4.8 L) Y-block V8
240 CID (3.9 L) I6
300 CID (4.9 L) I6
352 CID (5.8 L) FE V8
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. Also changed for 1968 were the heater controls, arm rests, interior door handles and window cranks, and the upper trim moulding on models so equipped. Rear side marker reflectors were also added to the lower bed side panels in 1968, per government regulations. The 302 V8 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. Trucks from the Fifth Generation can be identified as to year model by their year specific grille arrangements. Still available was the Camper Special option, along with the new Explorer Special (a limited edition trim and option package), Contractor's Special(including a behind the seat toolbox and 3/4 ton (F-250) suspension), Farm and Ranch Special, and Heavy-Duty Special. Most of these "specials" from 1967 to 1972 were made in relatively low numbers and are now becoming increasingly difficult to locate. Models:
F-100 (F10, F11, F14): 1/2 ton (5,600 GVWR max)
F-100 (F18, F19)(4×4): 1/2 ton (5,600 GVWR max)
F-250 (F25): 3/4 ton (7,500 GVWR max)
F-250 (F26)(4×4): 3/4 ton (6,000 GVWR max)
F-350 (F35): 1 ton (10,000 GVWR max)
Engines:
240 CID (3.9 L) I6
300 CID (4.9 L) I6
352 CID (5.8 L) FE V8
360 CID (5.9 L) FE V8
390 CID (6.4 L) FE V8
302 CID (5.0 L) Windsor V8
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. Medium-duty models, however, weren't redesigned as drastically as the light-duty trucks. In fact they were incredibly similar to the fifth-generation medium-duty F-Series trucks. 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. Additionally, a new chrome-plated "F O R D" letter set could now be seen on the hood immediately above the grille. 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. 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-wheelbase 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 2,275 lb (1,032 kg) 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 GVWR ratings for these trucks was tied to a combination of wheel, spring, axle and brake combinations. The series code on the ID tag denotes which model and from that it can be determined what weight rating each vehicle has. 4×4 trucks can also be identified by the VIN number and on the ID plate as a serial number. For example, F10 is an F-100 2-wheel drive, but F11 is an F-100 4×4, and so on. Serial numbers beginning with an "X" are SuperCab models. Starting in 1978, Ford redesigned their Ford Bronco and based it upon the F-150. The Bronco was now virtually identical to the F-150, except for the unibody design structure. The new Bronco incorporated design characteristics which eliminated leaky roofs and body flex associated with other full size removable top utility vehicles of the era. This allowed Ford to compete better with the Chevrolet Blazer by offering a larger and more luxurious SUV while minimalizing production costs since many (especially the most complex and expensive) parts were shared with the F-series trucks. The Bronco was only offered with the 351M and 400 V8 engines. Models:
F-100 (F10, F11, F14): 1/2 ton (5,600 GVWR max)
F-100 (F18, F19)(4×4): 1/2 ton (5,600 GVWR max)
F-250 (F25): 3/4 ton (7,500 GVWR max)
F-250 (F26)(4×4): 3/4 ton (6,000 GVWR max)
F-350 (F35): 1 ton (10,000 GVWR max)
Engines:
240 CID (3.9 L) I6
300 CID (4.9 L) I6
360 CID (5.9 L) FE V8
390 CID (6.4 L) FE
302 CID (5.0 L) Windsor V8
460 CID (7.5 L) 385 V8
351 CID (5.8 L) 335 V8
400 CID (6.6 L) 335 V8
Seventh generation (1980–1986)
The next major redesign came in 1980. The new truck had a squarer look, with sharp lines and flat panels; the trucks were designed with improved fuel efficiency in mind, and to this end, Ford added its new AOD automatic overdrive (four-speed) transmission as an option on light-duty models. Also new was Ford's first use of an independent front suspension on 4×4 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 became XL, XLS, and XLT Lariat. In 1982 the "F-O-R-D" letters were removed from the hood and a blue oval logo appeared on a slightly re-designed grille that featured fewer vertical bars than the previous 1980–1981 grille. The big-block 460 CID V8 was dropped for 1980, but returned in 1983 along with the 6.9 L V8 International Harvester IDI option. In 1982, the 335-series "Cleveland" V8s were discontinued. The 351C 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 5.0 L V8 switched over to fuel injection, first as an option in 1985 and then as standard in 1986. The new Essex V6 was added in 1982, but didn't sell particularly well. It was dropped after 1983, and the long-lived 300 inline six continued as the standard engine through the series. Trucks equipped with the 3-speed manual transmission were the last American vehicles to have a column-shifted manual transmission.[citation needed]
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 generation. 1982–86 models had the letters removed, and a Ford 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, with the exception of the 2010 and 2011 F-150 SVT Raptor. This generation saw two different sets of trim levels:
In 1980 and 1981, there was:
Custom- Mainly Base model with manual locks/windows, vinyl seat, and black rubber floor mat,but could be had with other options. Ranger- Intermediate trim that added a color-keyed floor mat, chrome trim on the door panels,and woodtone dash trim. Ranger XLT- A step up from the Ranger that added better 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,and Woodgrain Trim on the door panels.It also featured special "Lariat" emblems on the cab,as well as Ranger Lariat script above the radio. Explorer- a limited edition options and trim group with year specific stripes unique to the Explorer. Was combined with one of the other trim levels.[7]
For 1982–1986:
Base – basically the same as the Custom of the previous years. XL – replaced the intermediate Ranger trim for 1982 as the Ranger name would be used for Ford's new compact truck. XLS- a new trim level that featured a blacked-out grille, bumpers, headlight bezels, and windshield trim. It also featured a stripe graphics package and black and silver dash trim. Available exterior colors were red, silver, and black. XLT Lariat- featured floor carpeting, color-keyed headliner, a standard chrome grille, and optional power windows/door locks. 1984 saw the last year for woodgrain trim on the door panels as 1985–1986 models had a carpeted section applied to the door panels. In 1985 the tailgate trim was changed to a "flat" full width aluminum with a red "reflector" towards the bottom with chrome FORD letters. Explorer a limited edition options and trim group with optional year specific stripes unique to the Explorer– The Explorer trim line (1968-1986) was dropped for the 1987 models to introduce the Ford Explorer SUV in 1991. Explorer packages changed every year,and were only offered for a limited time each model year.
1985 was also the first year of the optional Eddie Bauer trim. This generation of Ford trucks are the latest to become popular restoration projects as most of these trucks are becoming emissions exempt in most states and now old enough to be registered as classics or antiques. Engines:
300 CID (4.9 L) I6
255 CID (4.2 L) Windsor V8
302 CID (5.0 L) Windsor V8
351 CID (5.8 L) Windsor V8
400 CID (6.6 L) 335 V8
460 CID (7.5 L) 385 V8
6.9 L (420 CID) International Harvester Diesel V8
Eighth generation (1987–1991)
The 1987 design was more streamlined, and maintenance items were made simpler. Rear antilock brakes were now standard, the first truck to boast this. The five speed Mazda M5OD manual transmission was added to the lineup in 1988, while still retaining the heavier built Borg-Warner T18 four speed manual transmission. Also for 1988, the flareside box was dropped. For 1987 the 4.9 L (300 CID) had standard fuel injection; for 1988, the 351 CID (5.8 L) and 7.5 L (460 CID) 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 (420 CID) diesel V8 with a 7.3 L (444 CID) International Harvester IDI diesel V8 (now making 180 hp (130 kW). 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 44 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 F-250s received TTB Dana 50 axles and the F-350s got a solid axle Dana 60. The 5.0 L (302 CID) truck also had an optional "Touch Drive" electronic transfer case. Custom(Dropped after 1988), XL, XLT, and XLT Lariat were the trim options available. For 1991, a new "Nite" trim package was introduced. It included all blacked-out exterior trim and either a pink or blue/purple stripe and "Nite" decal on the sides of the cargo box. Some sources report that a sport suspension was included, although this is not certain. The "F-Super Duty" (as the fender emblems stated) models appeared from 1987 to 1997. They were basically F-450s built 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 with a dash-mounted toggle switch to switch between each tank 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 about 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). They came with either the standard 7.5 L (460 CID) gas V8 or the optional 7.3 L (444 CID) diesel V8. All wheels were 10-lug with DRW (Dual Rear Wheels). This model should not 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 lb GVWR max)
F-250: 3/4 ton (8,800 lb GVWR max)
F-350: 1 ton (11,000 lb GVWR max)
F-Super Duty: 1 ton plus (15,000 lb GVWR max)
Engines:
4.9 L (300 CID) I6
5.0 L (302 CID) V8
5.8 L (351 CID) V8
7.5 L (460 CID) V8
7.3 L (444 CID) Diesel V8
Transmissions:
C6 -3-speed automatic
C4 - 4-speed automatic
Borg-Warner T18 4-speed manual
M5OD 5-speed manual
ZF S5-42 5-speed manual
Ninth generation (1992–1996/1997)
The 1992 truck received a new aerodynamic-looking front end, a new dashboard, and the Flareside bed returned. The "Nite" package introduced in 1991 continued, but was dropped at the end of the 1992 model year. The Lightning Performance Truck appeared as a 1993 model, with more than 20 industry "firsts" or pilot applications, including 17-inch (430 mm) aluminum wheels, gas-charged shocks, and performance handling developed by world-champion driver Jackie Stewart. The Lightning was powered by a special 240 hp (180 kW) version of the 351-cubic-inch (5.8 L) V8 engine. The 1994 models brought several changes, including a driver's-side airbag, "CHMSL" third brake light, brake-shift interlock and CFC-free air conditioning. New options in 1994 included remote keyless entry with alarm, a compact disc player fitted into the regular stereo system, and a power driver's seat; an electrochromic inside rear view mirror was also offered in 1994 and 1995 as part of a luxury light package. Following the lead of the Explorer, an Eddie Bauer trim line — featuring plusher trim and increased standard features — was added for 1995. Ford trailed rival General Motors in combined truck sales for much of the ninth generation. Models:
F-150: 1/2 ton (6,100 lb GVWR max)
F-250: 3/4 ton (8,100 lb GVWR max)
F-250 HD: 1992–1997 Heavy Duty 3/4 ton (8,800 GVWR max)
F-350: 1 ton (10,000 lb GVWR max)
F-Super Duty: 1 ton plus (15,000 lb GVWR max)
Engines:
4.9 L (300 CID) I6
5.0 L (302 CID) V8
5.8 L (351 CID) V8
7.5 L (460 CID) V8
7.3 L (444 CID) diesel V8
Transmissions:
3-speed C6 automatic
4-speed E4OD automatic
4-speed AOD-E automatic
4-speed NP435 manual (1992)
5-speed M5OD manual
5-speed ZF S5-42 manual
5-speed ZF S5-47 manual
Tenth generation (1997–2004)
Ford took the aero styling further for 1997 with a rounded nose on the new F-series. Since it was the F-150's first major redesign since 1980, the redesigned truck went on a nation-wide 87-stop tour to Ford plants and the external part suppliers in October, 1995 prior to its release.[8] To build anticipation for the redesigned truck, the 1997 model was released in January 1996 with the first ad campaigns airing during Super Bowl # # #. Because of the radical styling, Ford predicted that traditional truck buyers wouldn't receive the radical and car-like 1997 too well, so it continued to produce and sell the previous 1996 model alongside the redesigned 1997 model for a few months. The regular F-250 (light-duty) was basically an F-150 with the same body panels but with a heavy-duty Sterling 10.5 axle and suspension, along with 7 lug wheels. Additionally, the F-250 Light Duty also offered a load leveling rear suspension system. The F-250 HD (Heavy Duty) was in the same series as the F-350. With the arrival of the all new 1999 "Super Duty" series in early 1998, the standard F-250 ('light-duty'), F-250HD (Heavy Duty), & F-350 line was totally dropped and the F-250 (light-duty), which was a temporary model from the start, became the "7700" package for the F-150 (noted on the tailgate emblem). Completely new, more efficient engines were offered beginning in 1997. A 4.2 L OHV V6, based on Ford's 3.8 L Essex V6, replaced the 4.9 L OHV I6, while 4.6 and 5.4 liter SOHC V8s replaced the 5.0 and 5.8 liter OHV V8s, also the 7.5 liter big block V8 was replaced by the 6.8 liter V10 for the super duty models respectively. The 4.6 and 5.4 liter V8s were marketed under the name "Triton" and mark the first use of Ford's Modular Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) engines in the F-Series pickups. Ford's own 8.8 IFS replaced the Dana 44 front end, while the Ford 8.8 rear remained. The Ford Sterling 9.75 axle was also optioned in heavy-duty versions. In 2000 the Sterling 10.25 axle became a option. 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 with four full-size doors. In 2002, an FX4 model was introduced which came with skid plates,a carbon steel frame, Rancho shock absorbers, and specific 17" aluminum wheels along with more standard features that were optional on XLT. In 2003, a sporty STX trim package was introduced, aimed at younger truck buyers. The STX package featured color keyed front/rear bumpers along with clear lens headlights and integrated round fog lamps. The package also featured chrome step rails, 17" chrome wheels, and a Kenwood Z828 stereo was installed in place of the standard Ford radio. This generation F-150 received an overall "Poor" rating by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the frontal offset test,[10] and was ranked the "2nd Worst Performer." Engines:
4.2 L (256 CID) Essex V6
4.6 L (281 CID) Triton V8
5.4 L (330 CID) Triton V8
Transmissions:
4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
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 or new 3-valve 5.4 L 3V Triton V8 engines and four-speed automatic transmissions were offered to the retail public on the new trucks. In 2005, Ford's 4.2 L Essex V6 and manual transmission became available and standard on base models after they were available only for fleet orders for 2004. The F-250 and F-350 Ford Super Duties (on the P3 platform) are a different class (over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg) GVWR) than the regular F-series lineup, although they are still F-series trucks. All F-Series have two large "closed loop" front tow hook design as opposed to conventional open hooks. The F-Series can pull up to 30,000 lb (14,000 kg) with just one hook. For the 2006 model year beginning in December, 2005, a flex-fuel version of the 3-valve 5.4 L Triton V8 became available. Also for the 2006 model year, an updated front bumper with circular fog lamps and a smaller bumper vent distinguished the 2006-2008 models from the 2004-2005 F-150. Other updates included improved front seats with more supportive side bolstering, and new 20" wheels were available on FX4, Lariat and King Ranch. A navigation system became an option for the first time, being offered on the Lariat and King Ranch, as well as the all-new Harley Davidson trim. Not leaving the XLT unnoticed, Ford offered an XLT Chrome Package, also known as XTR in Canada, as well as a Lariat Chrome package. SIRIUS satellite radio became available on all trims except the XL. The FX4 became more upscale with a Luxury package, making it almost an alternative trim to the Lariat. A Harley-Davidson special edition was offered for 2006, being available in AWD or 2WD, and only in SuperCab. for 2007, a SuperCrew Harley Davidson was offered. Other mid-cycle refresh improvements included Five inch Running boards, traction assist on 2WD V8 models, and an all new "Smokestone Clearcoat Metallic" paint on Lariat only. For 2007, Ford introduced a complement to the existing FX4 model, the new FX2 Sport package (a 2-wheel-drive truck with an appearance package). Ford states a properly equipped 2007 F-150 (Long Wheel Base, 2WD model only) can tow up to 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) maximum and 1800–3050 lb maximum payload. This generation F-150 got top safety ratings (5 stars) from the NHSTA in frontal collisions, and not only got a "Good" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal offset test, but also a Best Pick. The dummy sensors recorded no injuries to any body region. Saleen offers their own OEM version of the F-150, badged as the S331. Additionally, Roush offers an aftermarket version with similar power. Beginning with the second half of the 2007 model year, Ford offered the Saleen forced-induction package on the Harley edition as an OEM option. The F-150 Foose Edition debuted in fall 2007 as a 2008 model. Based on an F-150 FX2 Sport, it uses a Roush-developed powertrain. The supercharged 5.4 L V8 puts out 450 hp (340 kW) and 500 lb·ft (680 N·m) of torque.[13]
Awards, sales accomplishments
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. Engines:
4.2 L (256 CID) Essex V6
4.6 L (281 CID) Triton V8
5.4 L (330 CID) Triton V8
Transmissions:
4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Twelfth generation (2009–present)
Ford revealed the next generation 2009 F-150 design at the North American International Auto Show in January, 2008. Production of the series began in October 2008 at Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant.[17] The truck features a larger and more flexible interior, an updated three-bar grille, and additional choices of cab styles and trim levels. The chassis includes lighter-weight, high-strength steel for better fuel economy and safety and improved payload and towing capacity. Three engines were initially offered with the 2009 redesign: a revised 5.4 L 3-valve Triton V8 that is E85 capable with an output rating of 320 hp (240 kW) and 395 lb·ft (536 N·m) of torque, a 292 hp (218 kW) 4.6 L 3-valve V8, and a 248 hp (185 kW) 4.6 L 2-valve V8. The 3-valve 5.4 and 4.6 liter V8s are mated to Ford's new 6R80E 6-speed automatic transmission while the 4R75E 4-speed automatic transmission used previously is carried over for the 2-valve 4.6 L V8. The 4.2 L OHV V6 engine, which was previously available, has been dropped due to the closure of the Essex engine plant where it was produced. A top-of-the-line Platinum edition F-150 replaced the Lincoln Mark LT truck.[18] However, this trim line is still sold as the Lincoln Mark LT in Mexico. The 2009 Ford F150 features 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 (Roll Stability Control)--an Electronic Stability control and anti-rollover safety feature also available in other Ford vehicles, from the Fusion to the Expedition. Beginning in 2009, manual transmissions will no longer be available in the F-150. Manual transmissions will continue to be available in the F-250/F-350 Super duty pickups. 2009 was the last year when Flareside Box was available, and the last year when the 17" wheels for the FX4 Off-Road were available. In 2010 The only box will be Styleside, and the base wheels for FX4 will be 18". For the 2011 model year, an all-new engine lineup is offered. Two of the engines, a 3.7 L V6 and a 5.0 L V8, are based on the 2011 Ford Mustang engines, and both offer E85 flex-fuel capability. The 6.2 L V8 used in the 2011 Ford Super Duty is available with the F-150 Platinum, Lariat, SVT Raptor, and Harley Davidson editions. Finally, the 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 will be offered in the F-150 starting in early 2011. All engines are paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission (6R80).[19] Electric power-assisted steering is available on all engines besides the 6.2. Since 2008, the Ford F-150 has towing and hauling capacity of 11,300 lbs and 3,060 lbs, respectively. SVT Raptor
Raptor began hitting showrooms in late 2009 as a dedicated off-roader. It debuted in 2010 and sales were much better than expected. It was powered by a 5.4L (330 CID) engine, with a 6.2L option. The 6.2L (379 CID) engine has 411 horsepower (306 kW) and 434 ft·lbf (588 N·m) of torque. The suggested retail price was $3000 over the 5.4L model. A six-speed automatic is standard. It has Fox Racing Shox internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs which allows for 11" of suspension travel in front, and 13" in the rear. It will come standard with 35" BFG All Terrain tires, and a rear Locking differential with a 4.10:1 gear ratio. Also, it will be available in solid black, white, blue, and orange with a "digital mud" decal scheme as an option. In April 2011, Ford sold 1,186 Raptors, outselling Honda's Ridgeline. The first production Raptor, orange with the digital mud graphic, sold at an auction for $130,000. Ford donated all proceeds above the MSRP to charity. The race version, F-150 SVT Raptor R, was built for the Baja 1000 races. It uses a 6.2 L engine rated at 500 hp. Engines:
3.5 L EcoBoost V6
3.7 L Cyclone V6
4.6 L (281 CID) 2V V8
4.6 L (281 CID) 3V V8
5.0 L (302 CID) Coyote V8
5.4 L (330 CID) 3V V8
6.2 L (379 CID) 2V V8
Transmissions:
4-speed automatic
