A Labor Day Salute to Working Ford Trucks

By S.J. Bryan - September 7, 2021

Ford trucks make some of the best looking, toughest workhorses on the road; and we’ve got some of our favorites.

The history of Ford trucks begins with a need to vehicles that can get the job done. And from the first trucks produced in 1917, Ford had a clear vision and directive to deliver vehicles that could work on the job. So for Labor Day, we take a look at how Ford is the ultimate work truck.

The 1917 Model TT had a heavier-duty frame that made it capable of carrying one ton of payload. Ford was serious about making the best trucks for work and–of course–for play. Next, the company would focus on building a chassis that could accommodate third-party beds, cargo areas, and more to increased functionality. It was a a hit. In 1928, Ford replaced the TT truck the Model AA with a 1.5-ton chassis.

1935 Ford pickup Greyhound

“Model AA trucks in particular had a certain class to them,” writes Bob Kreipke, Ford historian. “Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday.”

The automaker continued to improve on their trucks. When the 1948 “Bonus Built” F-Series debuted, it was then that Ford really nailed the perfect pickup. It had the looks, the power, and all the appeal.

Over the years, people have continued to use Ford trucks from every generation to take care of business. And as the trucks have changed, so have the jobs.

Ford trucks are everywhere. They on the farm, hauling cargo, plowing, towing, and on highways all across the globe.

But today work is expanded to include any number of ventures. And modifications ensure the rig is properly equipped for the task at hand. Even if that happens to be classic food truck.

Very popular as municipal vehicles, this 1995 Bronco once worked for the U.S. Forest Service.

It’s hard to believe, but some people are lucky enough to get paid to race.

Off-roading ability is a key component for a solid word truck. Ford expanded on that with the Bronco, Raptor, and many off-road trims and editions.

Certainly one reason that Ford is such a mainstay on the job is that is can handle just about anything. Although, we have seen this line being pushed over and over again.

But for all the abuse we dish out, the truck takes it. And its resilience and ability to adapt is pretty amazing. Check out this 1956 COE Ford turned into a custom hauler, flawlessly.

And compare that to this 1963 F-350 version. Both have been given a new life and different style with custom modifications.

As overlanding becomes more popular, we see conversions like this F-600. It’s one of the coolest and most capable campers on (and more likely off-) the road.

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Today, Ford offers expanded options with the tailgate, bed, and cab to make working and storage easier.

These trucks can take a beating, and just get back up. Made to handle almost anything, they remain an impenetrable force that sets the industry standard.

From the early TT to the luxurious King Ranch, Ford pickups have come a long way. Nothing else feels as powerful and attitude-inducing as driving a Ford F-Series. When it comes to getting to work, nothing else makes life easier than a solid truck.