A while back, I asked about adding power steering to a 73 f350. It seems pretty involved and now considering going a different route. I’m thinking of getting a newer truck and

building it for our snow plow.

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Here are some questions:

Are the ’73-‘79 front end (frame area) the same on 3/4 tons? We want to be able to convert the plow just by bolting it on.

Do they make a 3/4 ton 4x4 short bed?

Is there a year that is better or worse than others?

Please confirm my thought that a 2wd power-steering won’t work on a 4x4.

Thanks, for the help.

P/T

 

1. My gut says "no", I think the hiboy/lowboy frames are different. Someone on the list should be able to verify.

2. No 3/4 ton short beds.

3. That is up to opinion. The highboys had factory divorced t-cases, power assist steering, and a narrower frame, but the highboys are taller.

4. you are correct that 2wd power-steering won't work on a 4x4, since most 2wds are rear steer, and the 4wds are front steer, the pitman arm turns opposite directions.

 

I used to plow for guy he had both a 77 highboy and a 78. the 78 was the truck i preferred for plowing, but thats mostly because it was auto the other was stick. they do no make a reg cab short bed 4x4 3/4 ton. 2wd steering is behind the k member while the 4x4 is in front of the frame: not compatible. earlier models will keep you out of smog and you'll feel more power.

 

Opinions will differ from what year may be the best. "If it's a FORD, it's all good". IMO, I would say the 78/79 models F250s were better because of the upgraded power steering from the Power Assist. Asside from 77.5, the Front ends were open knucked. Also, if it matters, the In Cab fuel tank moved back to the rear, so you could change the 19 gal out to a 38 gal if you wanted.

But, no year is really that superior to the next. Just depends on what you like the best.

 

Find a 79 F350 4x4 and stuff a 460 in it.

 

What he said minus the 460 (I'll stay with the 400 thank you ).

 

stay newer than 75 for disc brakes

unrulee- i got a D60 out of a 90 F350, you interested? It is high pinion, king pin. I would also knock a little off the cost if you threw in your D44 front

 

yup, or a 77.5-79 F250 Snofighter with a Cummins swapped in

 

Was this a factory package or special model? If so, what made it unique?

 

One of the OffRoad Mags picked the 79 f350 as the best F series of 73-79 due to the fact it had a D60 upfront and i'm sure other reasons had effects on there decision.

 

Among other things, it had cab running lights, dual batteries, dual tanks, and a Dana 60 front axle.

 

The 78/79 were the best for the reasons listed.

Quick question: I'm looking at a '76 F250 4x4. Is it supposed to have disc brakes from factory?

 

Yes i have a 76 Hiboy and it has Disk brakes

 

Thanks, Thomas.

 

That was 4wheel and Offroad, they also said that it came with a 460, and I think they said it had a 70 rear.