First Generation: 1948-1952
The year was 1948. World War II was over and people were beginning to get back into their normal routines when Ford introduced its first truly new pickup since the war began.Advertised as a Bonus Built truck, it was named F-1 -- the first Ford truck to wear the F designation. Buyers could choose from one of three new engines, all with more power than Ford's previous pickups, plus the promise of better fuel economy.
Drivers sat in what Ford called a Million Dollar cab, resting on more comfortable seating than had been available in the past. Ford's expanded, one-piece windshield offered an unobstructed view.
Ford added its Level Action cab suspension, and built the pickups on a stronger chassis to hold up to the strenuous jobs a a work truck was expected to handle.
1951 Changes
In 1951, trucks came off the assembly line wearing a new front-end design, and with two new trim levels. The rear window was expanded for better visibility out the back.
1952 Changes
Ford introduced its first truck overhead valve (OHV) engine in 1952, a 215 cubic inch 6-cylinder.The next generation of F-Series trucks brought changes to comfort, utility and safety.
F-Series First Generation Photos
- First Generation F-1 Trucks Gallery (from F-100 Supernationals in Knoxville, TN)
- "My Truck Runs for Only 2-1/2 cents a Mile
- Bonus Built Trucks, 1958
- Brand New for '48
F-Series Trucks, Generation by Generation
- 1948-1952 F-Series, 1st Generation
- 1953-1956 F-Series, 2nd Generation
- 1957-1960 F-Series, 3rd Generation
- 1961-1966 F-Series, 4th Generation
- 1967-1972 F-Series, 5th Generation
- 1973-1979 F-Series, 6th Generation
- 1980-1986 F-Series, 7th Generation
- 1987-1991 F-Series, 8th Generation
- 1997-2003 F-Series, 9th Generation
- 2004-2008 F-Series, 10th Generation
- 2009 F-Series, 11th Generation
