One of the notable innovations from this period was a distinctive line of vehicles that appeared to have been upgraded with aftermarket parts straight from the factory. Introduced over five decades ago, the Ford Highboy provided a distinct driving experience with its lifted suspension and aggressive styling. Now, it’s a highly coveted vehicle among collectors and truck enthusiasts, prized for its rugged design and timeless appeal.
What’s unique about the Highboy is that its name isn’t officially recognized by Ford and can’t be found in any Ford documentation. Instead, it was coined by Ford truck enthusiasts to highlight the vehicle’s impressive high ground clearance. The term “Ford Highboy” specifically refers to the four-wheel drive F-250 pickups made by Ford from 1967 to the middle of 1977. Several sources agree that the production of Highboys stopped in mid-1977, when Ford began producing similar-looking models with lower ground clearance in the second half of that year.
The key feature of the Highboy was its high ground clearance. According to available data, its exact height is not specified, but its tall suspension allowed for the use of larger tires, up to 38 inches, without needing any additional modifications. This was achieved thanks to the truck’s unique transfer case configuration, which is mounted separately from the transmission, necessitating a longer front driveshaft to link the components.
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Key Characteristics of the Ford Highboy Trucks
The Ford Highboy trucks are notable for their:
“**Distinctive Visual Identity**
1. **Boxed Fenders**: High fenders provide ample space for oversized tires, giving the vehicle a rugged look.
2. **Wheels and Tires**: Large, premium wheels and high-performance tires enhance the truck’s off-road capabilities.
3. **Skid Plates**: Protection for essential components, such as the oil pan and fuel tank, adds to the Highboy’s durability.
4. **Suspension Upgrades**: A revised suspension system allows for improved articulation and stability over rough terrain.
5. **Interior and Exterior Upgrades**: Customizable interior and exterior options enable owners to personalize their Highboy to suit their preferences.
6. **Power and Capability**: The Highboy’s engine and transmission are designed to provide exceptional power and towing capacity.
7. **Safety Features**: Advanced safety features, such as a redundant braking system, enhance the truck’s overall safety performance.
8. **Off-Road Capabilities**: The Highboy’s rugged design and advanced features enable it to tackle challenging off-road terrain with confidence.”
To achieve a balanced stance despite its tall height, Ford engineers lifted the front suspension and added a 4-inch rear lift block. This setup allowed even the standard Highboy to have the look of a lifted vehicle with an aftermarket kit. Many Ford Highboys were also equipped with a Dana 44 front axle for added strength, durability, and off-road capability. Later models came with open-knuckle axles, which improved turning and made the vehicle more reliable.
Ford offered the Highboy with three engine options: a 240 CID inline-six, a 300 CID inline-six, and a 360 CID V8. The 240 CID model produced 150 horsepower and 234 lb-ft of torque, but this version is relatively hard to find among surviving Highboys today. Most collectibles are equipped with the 360 CID V8, which delivers 206 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque. The high demand for the more powerful V8 engine likely stems from the Highboy’s appeal to farmers, ranchers, and off-road enthusiasts who needed vehicles that could handle tough terrain and challenging conditions.
The company introduced these models, making them suitable for both families and workers. They also started with a slim frame to match the iconic series’ distinctive high-stance design. Unfortunately, the same narrow design led to the placement of the gas tanks inside the cab, a feature that was supposedly phased out in the last year of production.
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