I've always wanted an early model Ford 4x4. I am in the process of researching trucks before I buy. Just wondering what to look for good or bad in the years 1975-1978? If one year is better than the others? If a certain motor is better than the other, leaning on a big block. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you. Sincerely, DSPA23(No Email Addresses In Posts!)

 

As far as half-tons go MVHO is the '79 is the best truck ever built.

BFM

 

As far as engine options, there was a change between 76 and 77. Why are you classifying 75-79 and not including 73-74? They look the same save a minor grill insert that can be swapped and some minor badging differences. As far as cosmetics go, I never liked the 78/79 grills, but I have a 79 that I've put a 74 grill into it. What state do you live in, and what are the laws regarding emmisions and engine modification?
Perhaps older means non-catalyst motor and more legal options for modifying exhaust and intake. I think that in about 74 or 75 the motors got electronic DuraSpark ignition and lost the points. All the trucks in those years had 300 six and 302 as engine options. I'm not sure whether you could get 460 from factory in 4X4 or not but that engine is common to all the years. The main change was that in 76, Ford ceased putting 360/390 FE Big Blocks, and in 77 those sizes were replaced by the 351M/400 engine type. Both have there fans, but I think that the FE fans outnumber the "335" series fans.

BBT

 

 

there is no diff. between 1973-1975 except 74 was the last year for points type dist.myself I like the 76-77 trucks but the olny diff.is the grill motor wise I would go for a 390ci.in 73-76 and
a 460ci. or 400ci. in 77-73 trucks but it is up to you what you want