Ford F-Series Trucks: 1967-1972

1968 Ford F-100 Ranger Truck

Dale Wickell

For many people, the term "pickup truck" is synonymous with Ford's F-Series. Even the classic models remain in high demand. Here is a look at the features and updates Ford offered for the 1967-1972 models.

1967

Ford chose 1967 to introduce its next generation of F-Series pickup truck. Designers squared off the body lines and accented the flat side panels with a narrow indentation, which on the Ranger models was highlighted by a stainless steel molding. Truck interiors were also more "plush," and featured a padded dash, padded sun visors, and seat belts with shoulder anchor harnesses, all as standard equipment.

Also standard this year were dual brakes, a safety feature that prevented a localized failure from taking down the entire system. Engine and transmission choices remained the same as they were in 1966 trucks, but Ford increased its powertrain warranty to 5 years or 50,000 miles.

1968

Federally mandated reflectors, which designers mounted on the side of the hood and rear of the bedside, make it easy to distinguish the 1968 trucks from the '67s. Ford also made engine changes this year, replacing the trucks' previous 352 cu.in. V8 with either a 360 cu.in or a 390 cu.in. version. Buyers who opted for heavy-duty suspension also received Ford's Flex-O-Matic system on the rear springs, which featured a longer spring and a pivoting spring shackle that adjusted itself to suit the load in the bed.

Brakes received another update: The contact area on the F-100's drum style brakes increased by 45-percent. Air conditioning systems became a little more modern thanks to a new unit that was integrated into the heater box. Ford claimed it would keep the cab 35 degrees cooler than previous add-on AC units.

1969

Ford offered three special models of the F-Series for this year. The Contractor Special featured heavy-duty springs, dual swing lock mirrors, a rear step bumper, a lighting package, and an optional under-hood electric power pack. The Heavy Duty Special came with a larger battery, a more powerful alternator, heavy-duty springs, a rear step bumper, and a gauge pack. The Farm & Ranch Special offered a heavy-duty alternator, a larger battery, heavy-duty springs, side moldings, and sideboards for the bed.

Until now, custom models had a painted grille, but Ford made a mid-year switch, giving all trucks a bright aluminum grille. Another mid-year change was the addition of a 302 V8, available as an option on 2WD pickups.

1970

The F-Series engine and transmission choices remained the same for 1970, so most changes were cosmetic. Ford split the trim levels into four categories: Custom, Sport Custom, Ranger, and Ranger XLT. The XLT featured interior trim as nice as most passenger cars of the time, another indication that Ford was trying to satisfy buyers who wanted to combine hauling capability with comfort and style. ​

1971

Only minor changes were made to the F-Series in 1971. All trucks received fuel tank vapor control systems to keep fumes from escaping into the air, and California models also received an exhaust emission control system. Minor changes were made to trim and upholstery.

1972

F-Series trucks underwent just a few changes for the last year of this generation. All engines received emission control systems to satisfy new regulations. Four-wheel-drive trucks had a new 3,300-lb.-rated front axle, while all models could opt for a cold-weather package that included an engine block heater, a larger battery, a more powerful alternator, and a limited-slip rear axle.