What improvements did Ford make on the 73 and newer F250 4wd's vs the previous gen. 67-72 era F250 4x4's? Im aware of a few upgrades,such as Power steering,and ive noticed larger steering knuckles on some 73 and later 250's. While i happen to prefer the styling of the 67-72 era,i like the the 73-on Highboys too. Front disk brakes came into the picture around 76 or 77,i believe,but other than those changes are they really significantly different or better? Ive got 2 F250 4x4's from 67-72 now(there actual years are somewhat questionable,due to the variety of parts in there builds),and im considering getting a 73-75 next,im limiting the years because of Ca. smog restrictions....any thoughts,suggestions greatly appreciated! Bob

 

Low brake pedal height is probably the most noticeable difference. The cab is slightly larger with some storage behind the seat.

 

power steering, I think, wasn't until 1977. power assist was before that.

 

power brakes ,power steering (or assist) what ever. disc brakes in 76.double walled box all the way up galvinized inner fenders up front galvinized cowl and inner box, little bigger tail lamps, key on right side of column,NP 203 or 205 transfer case instead of Dana 20, bigger fuel tank (2 gallons). as mentioned before slightly bigger cab oh and doors you don't need the key to lock! Both came with a 360 as the v8 exccept in 67 it was a 352. Was Calf different I know 49 state emmisions 3/4 tons had no junk until 78?

 

Agreed on the Disk brakes being a big improvement,power steering or power assist,also big improvements(although both of my 67-72 era had power assist steering added on,and both have power brakes). as far as ignition switch location,door locks go,these are more modern designs,but not necessarily improvements, Dana 24 T-case has always had a good rep.,sure the 205 is King,but just as many people curse the full time 203 as praise it

 

The best thing they did imo is switching to a married trans/t-case in 77. Not to mention cosmetics like padded dash, plastic door panels. The option for gauges instead of idiot lights is nice too.

 

95% of bumps had full gauges. They all had padded dashes. My ranger has plastic door panels(albeit over top of steel ones). I will say the married tranny\t-case is nice.