The 1979 Ford F350 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ford’s heavy-duty trucks. This model year marked a pivotal point in the evolution of the F-Series, introducing iconic design elements and powerful engine options that would define the truck for years to come.
The 1979 F350 was not just a vehicle; it was a symbol of American work ethic and capability, capable of tackling demanding tasks with ease.
From its imposing exterior to its robust engine options, the 1979 F350 embodied the spirit of ruggedness and reliability. Whether it was hauling heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain, this truck was built to endure. Its timeless design, combined with its powerful performance, made it a popular choice for farmers, ranchers, construction workers, and anyone who needed a dependable workhorse.
Overview
The 1979 Ford F350 marked a pivotal point in the evolution of Ford’s heavy-duty truck lineup, reflecting the changing needs of American consumers and the burgeoning popularity of pickups for both work and leisure. This generation introduced significant updates in terms of design, powertrains, and features, solidifying its position as a robust and versatile workhorse.
Historical Context
The 1970s witnessed a surge in demand for pickups, driven by the energy crisis and a shift towards more fuel-efficient vehicles. While the F-Series had always been known for its durability, Ford recognized the need to adapt to the changing landscape.
The 1979 F350 was introduced at a time when the automotive industry was facing numerous challenges, including rising fuel prices, stricter emissions regulations, and growing consumer expectations for comfort and convenience.
Significance in the Ford Truck Lineup
The 1979 F350 played a crucial role in establishing Ford’s dominance in the heavy-duty truck market. It offered a combination of power, capability, and refinement that appealed to both commercial and private buyers. This generation also introduced several innovations that would become hallmarks of the F-Series, such as the use of a Dana 60 front axle and a Dana 70 rear axle for superior strength and durability.
Design Features and Styling
The 1979 F350 boasted a distinctive design that reflected the era’s aesthetic preferences. It featured a bold, boxy exterior with a large grille, rectangular headlights, and a prominent hood. The interior, while functional, offered a level of comfort and convenience that was uncommon in trucks of the time.
Here are some key design features:
- Exterior:The 1979 F350 featured a rugged, utilitarian design with a boxy body, a large grille with horizontal bars, and a prominent hood. The truck’s overall dimensions were substantial, reflecting its heavy-duty nature. The cab was available in regular and extended versions, offering various seating configurations.
The truck also offered a choice of bed lengths, including a standard 8-foot bed and a shorter 6.5-foot bed.
- Interior:The interior of the 1979 F350 was designed with practicality in mind. The dashboard featured a simple layout with large gauges and easy-to-use controls. The seats were comfortable and offered good support for long drives. The truck also included features such as a vinyl floor, an AM radio, and optional power steering and brakes.
The 1979 Ford F350 was a powerhouse of a truck, known for its durability and ability to handle heavy loads. While the F350 was built for modern work, its roots can be traced back to the legendary 1932 Ford Model A , a car that revolutionized transportation and helped establish Ford’s legacy.
The F350, with its powerful engine and rugged construction, embodies the spirit of innovation and reliability that the Model A first brought to the world.
Engine and Performance
The 1979 Ford F350 was a workhorse, known for its powerful engines and rugged construction. It was available with a variety of engine options, each catering to different needs and applications.
The 1979 Ford F350, a workhorse of its time, represented a significant evolution in truck design. While its predecessors were known for their ruggedness, the F350 incorporated more advanced features, including a powerful diesel engine option. This marked a shift in the industry, much like the introduction of the 1923 Ford Pickup , which revolutionized the concept of the pickup truck with its mass-produced, affordable design.
The 1979 F350, with its enhanced capabilities and durability, further cemented Ford’s dominance in the truck market.
Engine Options
The 1979 Ford F350 offered a range of gasoline and diesel engine options. The gasoline engines included:
- 351 cu in (5.7 L) Windsor V8:This engine, rated at 165 hp (123 kW) and 285 lbâ‹…ft (386 Nâ‹…m) of torque, was the standard option. It provided sufficient power for everyday tasks but was not as powerful as the larger options.
- 400 cu in (6.6 L) Cleveland V8:This engine, rated at 175 hp (130 kW) and 315 lbâ‹…ft (427 Nâ‹…m) of torque, offered more power than the 351 cu in engine and was a popular choice for those needing more hauling capacity.
- 460 cu in (7.5 L) V8:This engine, rated at 210 hp (157 kW) and 365 lbâ‹…ft (495 Nâ‹…m) of torque, was the most powerful gasoline option. It provided ample power for heavy-duty applications.
For those seeking even more power and efficiency, there was a diesel option:
- 6.9 L (420 cu in) International Harvester IDI diesel:This engine, rated at 170 hp (127 kW) and 325 lbâ‹…ft (441 Nâ‹…m) of torque, was known for its durability and fuel efficiency. It was a popular choice for commercial applications and those who needed to tow heavy loads.
Power and Torque Outputs
The 1979 Ford F350’s engine options offered a range of power and torque outputs, catering to different needs and applications. The gasoline engines, while powerful, were generally less fuel-efficient than the diesel option. The 460 cu in V8, for example, delivered the highest horsepower and torque output among the gasoline engines, but it consumed more fuel.
The diesel engine, on the other hand, was known for its durability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for heavy-duty applications and those seeking to minimize fuel costs.
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of the 1979 Ford F350 varied significantly depending on the engine option and driving conditions. The gasoline engines generally had lower fuel economy than the diesel engine. The 351 cu in V8 was the most fuel-efficient gasoline option, while the 460 cu in V8 consumed the most fuel.
The diesel engine, with its lower fuel consumption, was a popular choice for those looking to minimize fuel costs.
Interior and Comfort: 1979 Ford F350
The 1979 Ford F350’s interior was designed with practicality and durability in mind, reflecting the truck’s intended purpose for heavy-duty work. While it may not offer the same level of luxury found in modern vehicles, it provided a functional and comfortable space for drivers and passengers.
Interior Features and Materials
The interior of the 1979 Ford F350 was typically appointed with vinyl upholstery, which was both durable and easy to clean. The dashboard featured a straightforward layout with large, easy-to-read gauges and controls. The steering wheel was typically a basic, two-spoke design.
Depending on the trim level, the F350 might have included features such as a radio, heater, and air conditioning.
Seating Configurations
The 1979 Ford F350 was available with a variety of seating configurations, depending on the specific model and cab style. The standard cab offered seating for two, while the extended cab offered seating for three. The crew cab, which was a more popular option for families or work crews, provided seating for up to six passengers.
Comfort and Practicality of the Cabin
The cabin of the 1979 Ford F350 was designed for comfort and practicality. The seats were typically wide and supportive, providing a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The large windows offered excellent visibility, and the high seating position gave drivers a commanding view of the road.
The interior was also spacious, providing ample room for passengers and cargo.
Exterior and Dimensions
The 1979 Ford F350 boasts a rugged and functional exterior design, reflecting its heavy-duty capabilities. The truck’s imposing presence is enhanced by its large grille, prominent headlights, and substantial body lines.
Exterior Design Elements
The 1979 Ford F350’s exterior design embodies the classic American pickup truck aesthetic. Its robust construction and utilitarian features make it a perfect choice for demanding tasks.
- The truck’s front end features a large, chrome-plated grille with horizontal bars, emphasizing its imposing presence.
- The rectangular headlights, positioned on either side of the grille, provide ample illumination for nighttime driving.
- The hood, characterized by its pronounced bulge, adds to the truck’s muscular appearance.
- The body lines are clean and straight, accentuating the truck’s boxy shape.
- The rear end features large taillights, a tailgate with a simple design, and a step bumper for easy access to the bed.
Dimensions and Payload Capacity
The 1979 Ford F350 comes in various configurations, each with its own set of dimensions and payload capacity. Here are the key dimensions for the standard cab, long bed model:
- Wheelbase:133 inches
- Overall Length:224 inches
- Overall Width:79 inches
- Overall Height:73 inches
- Bed Length:8 feet
- Payload Capacity:Up to 5,000 pounds (depending on the trim level and options)
Available Paint Colors
The 1979 Ford F350 was available in a range of colors, allowing buyers to personalize their trucks. Some of the popular paint options included:
- Dark Blue Metallic
- Light Blue Metallic
- Red
- White
- Black
- Silver
- Green
Features and Options
The 1979 Ford F350 offered a range of features and options to suit various needs and preferences. From standard equipment to optional packages, buyers could customize their trucks to meet specific requirements.
Standard Features
Standard features on the 1979 F350 included a robust powertrain, functional interior, and essential safety features.
- Engine:A powerful 6.6-liter V8 engine with a 4-barrel carburetor was standard.
- Transmission:A 4-speed manual transmission was standard, while a 3-speed automatic was optional.
- Suspension:Heavy-duty suspension was designed to handle heavy loads.
- Brakes:Power brakes with front disc brakes were standard for enhanced stopping power.
- Interior:Vinyl upholstery, a basic dashboard with essential gauges, and a vinyl-covered steering wheel were standard.
- Safety:Standard safety features included seat belts and a driver’s side airbag.
Optional Features and Packages
Ford offered a variety of optional features and packages to enhance comfort, convenience, and functionality.
- Power Steering:Power steering was optional for easier maneuvering.
- Air Conditioning:Air conditioning was an optional feature for climate control.
- Radio:AM/FM radio was optional for entertainment.
- Custom Cab Packages:Ford offered custom cab packages that included features like plusher seating, additional storage compartments, and upgraded interior trim.
- Heavy-Duty Packages:Heavy-duty packages included features like increased payload capacity, heavy-duty axles, and specialized suspension components.
Notable Features
The 1979 F350 featured several notable features that contributed to its popularity.
- Durable Construction:The F350 was built with a rugged and durable frame, suspension, and body, making it suitable for demanding tasks.
- Powerful Engine:The standard 6.6-liter V8 engine provided ample power for towing and hauling heavy loads.
- Versatility:The F350 was available in various configurations, including regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab, catering to different needs.
- Reliability:Ford trucks were known for their reliability and durability, and the 1979 F350 continued this legacy.
Safety Features
The 1979 Ford F350, like many vehicles of its era, prioritized durability and functionality over advanced safety features. While some safety elements were present, the truck’s safety standards differed significantly from modern vehicles.
Standard Safety Features, 1979 Ford F350
The 1979 F350 came equipped with a standard set of safety features that were considered common practice for trucks at the time. These included:
- Four-wheel drum brakes:These brakes provided stopping power, but they were less effective and required more maintenance compared to modern disc brakes.
- Seat belts:While seat belts were standard equipment, they were not as sophisticated as modern safety belts and did not include features like pretensioners or load limiters.
- A padded dashboard:This feature aimed to minimize injuries in the event of a collision, but it was not as effective as modern airbags.
Safety Ratings and Incidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) did not implement its current crash test rating system until 1979, so the 1979 F350 was not subjected to formal safety ratings. However, anecdotal evidence and reports from the time suggest that the truck’s safety performance was comparable to other trucks of its era.
Comparison to Other Trucks of the Era
The safety features of the 1979 F350 were generally in line with other trucks produced during that period. Trucks from competitors like Chevrolet, GMC, and Dodge offered similar safety features, such as four-wheel drum brakes, seat belts, and padded dashboards.
The 1979 Ford F350, known for its robust build and powerful engine, was a popular choice for heavy-duty work. Its design was a testament to Ford’s engineering prowess, and its legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts today. For those seeking a classic workhorse with a unique style, the 1974 Ford Flatbed Truck offers a compelling alternative, with its flatbed design providing versatility for various tasks.
While the 1979 F350 is a symbol of American muscle, the 1974 Flatbed Truck embodies the spirit of practicality and ruggedness, showcasing the enduring appeal of Ford’s truck heritage.
The lack of advanced safety features was a common characteristic of vehicles in the late 1970s.
Legacy and Impact
The 1979 Ford F350, a robust and capable pickup truck, left an enduring mark on the automotive industry, influencing future truck designs and shaping the perception of American workhorses. Its impact can be seen in the evolution of Ford’s truck lineup and its cultural significance, particularly in the realm of work and leisure.
Influence on Subsequent Ford Truck Models
The 1979 F350’s design and engineering innovations paved the way for subsequent Ford truck models. Its introduction of a more robust frame and powerful engine options set a new standard for heavy-duty trucks. The 1979 F350’s success led Ford to further develop its truck lineup, incorporating features and technologies that had proven successful in this model.
- Improved Frame Design:The 1979 F350’s heavy-duty frame design, with its increased strength and durability, became a cornerstone for future Ford trucks. This design ensured greater load-carrying capacity and longevity, setting a new benchmark for heavy-duty pickups.
- Powerful Engine Options:The 1979 F350’s powerful engine options, including the 6.6L V8 and the 6.9L diesel, were instrumental in establishing Ford’s reputation for robust powertrains. Subsequent Ford trucks continued to build upon these foundations, offering increasingly powerful and fuel-efficient engine choices.
- Advanced Suspension Systems:The 1979 F350’s introduction of advanced suspension systems, including heavy-duty leaf springs and shock absorbers, enhanced ride comfort and handling. This focus on suspension technology carried over to later models, contributing to a smoother and more stable ride, even under heavy loads.
Cultural Significance and Popularity
The 1979 F350 gained immense popularity, becoming an iconic symbol of American work ethic and resilience. Its rugged design and powerful capabilities made it a favorite among farmers, ranchers, and construction workers. The truck’s ability to handle demanding tasks and navigate challenging terrains cemented its reputation as a reliable and durable workhorse.
- Workhorse Image:The 1979 F350’s robust design and heavy-duty capabilities made it a symbol of hard work and dependability. Its presence on farms, construction sites, and ranches reinforced its image as a reliable workhorse, capable of tackling any task.
- Popularity in Rural Communities:The 1979 F350’s popularity extended beyond its utility, becoming a symbol of rural life and community. Its ruggedness and reliability made it a trusted companion for farmers, ranchers, and those who relied on their vehicles for work and recreation.
- Influence on Popular Culture:The 1979 F350’s influence extended to popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and music videos. Its rugged appearance and powerful engine made it a popular choice for action-packed scenes and imagery, further solidifying its image as a symbol of strength and resilience.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1979 Ford F350 has become a sought-after classic truck, appreciated for its rugged design, powerful engines, and enduring legacy. Its value and desirability have steadily increased in recent years, making it an attractive investment for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Value and Desirability
The 1979 F350’s value is influenced by several factors, including condition, mileage, engine size, and modifications. Well-maintained, original examples with low mileage command the highest prices, while restored trucks with modern upgrades can also fetch a premium. The truck’s popularity is driven by its historical significance, its association with American work ethic, and its ability to be customized for various purposes.
Tips for Collecting and Restoring
- Research and Planning:Before purchasing a 1979 F350, conduct thorough research on its history, common issues, and restoration costs. Identify reputable sources for parts and information, such as online forums, classic truck clubs, and specialized restoration shops.
- Condition Assessment:A comprehensive inspection is crucial before buying. Check for rust, damage, engine leaks, and overall mechanical condition. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
- Budgeting:Restoration projects can be costly, so create a realistic budget that accounts for parts, labor, and unexpected expenses. Prioritize essential repairs and upgrades based on your needs and budget.
- Parts Sourcing:Finding original parts can be challenging. Consider using online marketplaces, salvage yards, and specialized parts suppliers. Be prepared to pay a premium for rare or discontinued parts.
- Professional Help:If you lack the experience or tools for a full restoration, consider seeking professional assistance from a reputable restoration shop. They can provide expertise in bodywork, paint, mechanical repairs, and upholstery.
Common Restoration Challenges and Solutions
- Rust:Rust is a common problem with older trucks. Thoroughly inspect for rust and address it early to prevent further damage. Consider using rust converters, replacing rusted panels, or applying protective coatings.
- Engine and Transmission:The engine and transmission may require rebuilding or replacement. Consult with a mechanic to assess their condition and determine the best course of action.
- Interior:Interior components like seats, carpets, and dashboard can be worn or damaged. Replace or reupholster them to restore the truck’s interior to its original glory.
- Electrical System:Electrical issues are common in older vehicles. Inspect wiring, fuses, and components for damage or corrosion. Consider upgrading the electrical system to modern standards for reliability.
Summary
The 1979 Ford F350 remains a cherished classic among truck enthusiasts, a testament to its enduring appeal and impressive capabilities. Its timeless design, powerful engines, and rugged construction have secured its place in automotive history. Whether you’re a collector seeking a piece of Americana or a mechanic looking for a project, the 1979 F350 offers a unique blend of nostalgia and practicality.
Its legacy continues to inspire modern truck design, proving that some things never go out of style.