Ford F-Series Pickup Trucks: 1997-2003
In 1997, Ford introduced F-Series trucks with an entirely new appearance. Front fenders, hood and grille were much more rounded to enhance aerodynamics and give the trucks a more modern, smoother appearance.SuperCab pickup trucks received a rear opening half-door on the passenger side, providing easier access to back seating (which was also made more comfortable).
The F-Series engine lineup was all new for 1997, with a 4.2-liter V-6, and 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V-8s. All three engines had overhead cams, and although smaller than the engines they replaced, each produced more horsepower than its predecessor.
1998 F-Series Updates
F-Series trucks remained pretty much unchanged for the ninth generation's second year. Ford focused its advertising on the 50th anniversary of the F-Series and the 50th anniversary of NASCAR.
1999 F-Series Updates
A driver's side rear opening door was added to SuperCab trucks, and made it easier to access the back seating area from either side of the truck.The SVT Lightning package returned after being absent for 3 years, this time with a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that produced 360 horsepower. The truck also had a lowered sport suspension and aerodynamic front bumper and side skirts. Other changes were minor, such as the new grille and 25 more horsepower for the 5.4 liter V-8.
2000 F-Series Updates
No major changes were made for turn-of-the-century trucks, but Ford established an alliance with Harley-Davidson, which continues today.The first Harley-Davidson F-150 was available in black and offered only as a SuperCab Flareside truck with special badging, wheels and interior trim.
2001 F-Series Updates
Look at pre-owned F-Series trucks and you'll find there were important changes in 2001. The most noticeable new feature was the introduction of the F-Series SuperCrew truck, the first half ton pickup with four full doors. Ford F-Series trucks became even more appealing to people who wanted a vehicle that could be used to haul people and cargo.In 2001, the Harley-Davidson F-150 was offered as a SuperCrew, but black was still the only color choice.
King Ranch trucks first became available in 2001, the beginning of an alliance with the huge Texas cattle ranch of the same name. These top-of-the-line trucks featured western-theme leather interior coverings with brand-like logos embossed in the seats, console and door panels.
2002 F-Series Updates
This year marks the first time Harley-Davidson edition trucks became available in a second color, smoke gray. Trucks were equipped with a supercharger that upped horsepower to 340, a billet grille and special 20" wheels.Four-wheel drive models became available with the FX4 package, with special striping, unique 17" wheels, skid plates and Rancho brand off-road shock absorbers.
2003 F-Series Updates
Ford and Harley-Davidson both celebrated their 100th anniversaries in 2003. A special black and silver paint scheme was available for the Harley-Davidson truck (with plenty of anniversary badging).The SVT Lightning also had an increase to horsepower -- to 380.
F-Series Ninth Generation Photos
1997 Ford F-150 Pickup Truck2001 F-150 SuperCrew Pickup Truck
F-Series Trucks History
- 1948-1952 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1953-1956 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1957-1960 F-Series F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1961-1966 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1967-1972 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1973-1979 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1980-1986 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1987-1991 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 1997-2003 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 2004-2008 F-Series Pickup Trucks
- 2009 F-Series F-Series Pickup Trucks