On the Ford Barn it came up that some 48 - 52's have ribs in the back panel of the cab (below the window), and some don't. So far, it isn't clear whether this was certain years, certain models (big truck/small truck), cab/chassis, or what.

So far over there we have:
-- a '48 F-5 with no ribs
-- a '48 F-6 with ribs
-- a '49 F-4 (SP) with ribs
-- a '49 F-7 with no ribs
-- a '49 F-4 (KC) with ribs
-- a '51 F-4 with no ribs
-- a '51 F-4 (RH) with ribs
-- a '52 F-1 (MP) with ribs
-- a '52 F-7 with no ribs

I almost have to wonder if the variation is in Production Plants? Anyone here got any insight into what the story is?

 

It was my understanding the early trucks were built without ribs and adding the ribs was a running change in '49. So it surprises me someone would have a '51 without ribs, assuming is was original.

My 48 COE is ribless, but all of the other trucks I've messed with had ribs.

 

My 51 F4 has ribs, so I don't understand the one listed without.

EDIT for Ross!

1951 F4
Richmond, CA plant
Built in August 1950
Has ribs

 

My '50 F6 has ribs.

 

My 49 has ribs.

 

1948 F6, 3 vertical ribs.

 

My 48 Coe is the only one of mine or that I have seen rib less. I have 2-51 Coes a 54 Coe and a 49 F1 and all are ribbed. Since 1948 is the first year I suppose they seen they needed it and did all in mid 49. Remember many trucks were made in plants not updated so find if you find one after 50 not done see where it was made.

 

I had 2 49 both made in Richmond ca one in December 48 one made in May 49
Dec one had no ribs the one in May had ribs

 

i;ve had ribs in my 49 f1 a few times, usually with sweet potato fries. i always clean up when i'm done.

 

My '49 F4 has ribs. It was built in KC in IIRC Jan '49.
Mark

 

This sounds like the definitive info for a 49 mid-year change in design.

 

Abe, could be, depends what models they were. Someone just posted on the Barn that their '52 F-7 doesn't have ribs...
Early f-1 differences. - The Ford Barn

If all who have replied so far could Edit their posts to show model and Plant, maybe we can nail this down! I edited my OP to add some of the info.

 

Hmmmmm.....

 

Ha ha ha.
From the Kansas City mfg plant style ribs? Some of the best right there.

OK, back on topic -



.

 

My 48 did not have ribs, but now does since i put a back panel patch from a 52 on it.