73-79 Ford Truck Parts

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Overview of the 1973–79 Ford F-Series Truck

The working-class legend that defined the Ford Built Tough reputation

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The 1973–79 Ford F-Series trucks earned their place in history as some of the most rugged and dependable pickups ever to roll off the assembly line. With a bold new body style, wider stance, and increased options across the board, this generation laid the groundwork for the modern full-size truck. For many enthusiasts, these trucks strike the perfect balance between vintage styling and usable everyday function - making them a staple in the classic truck community.

A New Generation of Tough Design

In 1973, Ford launched the sixth generation of its F-Series lineup with an all-new look. The body was taller, the stance was broader, and the overall appearance had a tougher, squared-up attitude. The high shoulder line and flat, wide hood gave the truck a commanding presence, while new grille designs were updated almost every model year, keeping things fresh without changing the core identity.

The 1973–79 lineup included:

• F-100 (1/2 ton)

• F-150 (introduced in 1975 to bridge the gap between F-100 and F-250)

• F-250 (3/4 ton)

• F-350 (1-ton)

Buyers could choose from Flareside or Styleside beds, and cab options ranged from standard to SuperCab (a popular extended cab configuration introduced in 1974). Top-tier trims like the Ranger XLT and Lariat added comfort and visual flair, giving these trucks a more refined edge than previous generations.

Chassis, Suspension & Drivetrain

Ford retained its Twin I-Beam suspension in 2WD models and a solid front axle for 4WD trucks, both of which offered dependable strength. Heavy-duty leaf springs in the rear meant these trucks could haul serious loads, especially in F-250 and F-350 configurations.

Popular engine options across the generation included:

• Inline-Six 240, 300ci – known for torque and reliability

• Small-block V8s like the 302 and 351W

• Big-block V8s including the 360, 390, 400, and 460ci monsters—ideal for towing and serious hauling

Transmissions ranged from classic 3-on-the-tree manuals to C6 automatics and 4-speed top-loaders, depending on year and trim.

Notable Model Year Highlights

Each year in this generation brought unique updates worth noting:

• 1973: First year of the new body. Clean, unadorned grille.

• 1974: SuperCab introduced for those needing extra interior space.

• 1975: F-150 debuts; emissions controls begin to affect power output.

• 1976: Bicentennial edition “Spirit of ’76” and “Free Wheelin’” special trims appear.

• 1977: Ford becomes the #1 selling truck brand in America - a title it still holds.

• 1978: Major grille redesign; square headlights introduced on Ranger XLT and Lariat.

• 1979: Final year of the generation; new trim and paint options make this one a collector favorite.

The Rise of the “Dent Side”

Collectors and builders commonly refer to the 1973–79 trucks as the “Dentside” Fords - a nickname stemming from the concave body line running along the sides of the truck. This distinct styling cue gives these trucks a recognizable profile and sets them apart from earlier and later models.

Today, Dentsides are prized for their blend of retro looks, simple mechanics, and massive aftermarket support. Whether you're keeping it bone-stock or building a lifted 4x4 trail rig, this generation offers nearly endless potential.

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WILD HORSES 4x4: Parts for 1973–79 Ford Trucks

If you're wrenching on a 1973–79 Ford truck, we've got the gear you need to get the job done right. WILD HORSES 4x4 supports the true DIYers and weekend warriors keeping these classics alive.

Browse our full range of 1973–79 Ford Truck Parts and build your Dentside the way it was meant to be—strong, capable, and ready for anything.

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1973-79 Ford Truck Factory Engine Options

Year	Engine	Displacement	Type	Notes
1973–76	240 I6	3.9L (240 cu in)	Inline-6	Base engine in early F-100s; phased out after 1976
1973–79	300 I6	4.9L (300 cu in)	Inline-6	Extremely durable and popular across all trim levels
1973–79	302 V8	5.0L (302 cu in)	V8	Small-block option for F-100; EFI introduced in 1979
1973–77	360 FE V8	5.9L (360 cu in)	V8	Common in F-250/F-350; known for torque, not high RPM power
1973–76	390 FE V8	6.4L (390 cu in)	V8	Strong powerplant for towing and HD use; phased out after 1976
1977–79	351M V8	5.8L (351 cu in)	V8	Replaced 360/390; part of Ford’s 335-series (M-block)
1977–79	400 V8	6.6L (400 cu in)	V8	Shared block design with 351M; good low-end torque for heavy loads
1973–79	460 V8	7.5L (460 cu in)	V8	Available in F-250 and F-350; biggest factory gas engine option

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1973-79 Ford Truck Factory Transmission Options

Transmission	Type	Speeds	Years Available	Notes
Ford 3.03 Toploader	Manual	3-speed	1973–79	Column-shifted; base transmission for F-100 with I6 or 302
Borg-Warner T-18	Manual	4-speed	1973–79	Granny low 1st gear; HD option in F-250/F-350 and 4x4s
New Process NP435	Manual	4-speed	1973–79	Wide-ratio HD 4-speed; very common in both 2WD and 4WD trucks
Ford C4	Automatic	3-speed	1973–79	Light-duty automatic; typically used with 302 V8 in F-100
Ford C6	Automatic	3-speed	1973–79	Heavy-duty automatic; common with 351M, 400, 460, and FE engines
FMX Automatic	Automatic	3-speed	1973–76	Used in select mid-decade models; eventually phased out in favor of C6

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Additional Key Specs for 1973-79 Ford Trucks

Spec	Details	Notes
Wheelbase (F-100)	117" (Short Bed), 133" (Long Bed)	Flareside and Styleside options available
Wheelbase (F-150/F-250)	133", 138", 155"	SuperCab introduced in 1974 with extended wheelbase
Wheelbase (F-350)	135", 137", 140", 155", 161", 165"	Varied with chassis cab, platform, dually, and crew cab configurations
Bed Styles	Styleside & Flareside	Styleside was most common; Flareside remained available
Brakes	Front disc / rear drum	Front disc brakes became standard starting in 1976 on F-100 and up
Steering	Manual or power recirculating ball	Power steering more common by late ‘70s, especially on F-150/F-250
Front Suspension (2WD)	Twin I-Beam with coil springs	Offered smooth ride with durability; used across 2WD models
Front Suspension (4WD)	Solid axle with leaf springs	NP Dana 44 and 60 axles depending on model/engine
Rear Suspension	Semi-elliptic leaf springs	Standard for load handling and towing capacity
Axle Types	Ford 9", Dana 44, Dana 60, Dana 70	Axle ratios commonly ranged from 3.00 to 4.10 depending on engine/load
Electrical System	12-volt alternator	Improved charging systems supported power accessories
Fuel Tank Capacity	19–38 gallons	In-cab, rear, and dual tank setups offered depending on trim and wheelbase
GVWR	F-100: ~4,700–5,800 lbs F-150: ~6,050–6,300 lbs F-250: ~7,500–8,400 lbs F-350: ~8,900–10,000+ lbs	Dependent on axle, tire, and spring package combinations