Frame width? 77 to 78

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Mar 15, 2005 | 12:55 PM

Ford4me302

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From: Southern Minnesota

Frame width? 77 to 78

why is it they changed the frame width 3 inches wider in 78 from 77 i have a 77 f-250 4x4 and a 78 f-250 4x4 and i took the ag hitch bumper off of the 77 and i was going to put it on the 78 but the frame was 3 inches wider and not as much room between the shackle mounts and the back of the frame

the 77 is 34 inches and the 78 is 37 1/2"

or did they i thought that they were all interchangeible (73-79) maybe it just me HELP?

Thanks Marcus

Last edited by Ford4me302; Mar 15, 2005 at 01:03 PM. Reason: forgot something

Mar 15, 2005 | 01:05 PM

Bouts21

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I bought a box from a 76 2x4 for my 78, and the mounts were about 3" to wide for the frame of my truck. So, yes they changed the frame widths. Or so it appears!!

Mar 17, 2005 | 02:07 AM

roger dowty

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From: western montana

When did this occur- half way through '77 perhaps???

Mar 17, 2005 | 11:59 AM

79_250RangerLariat

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They changed the frome from 34" to 38" in 77 1/2 when they went from the "highboy" to the "lowboy" or whatever you wish to call it. I belive the front ends are still the same width, the narrowing took place under the cab i think.... All the body parts are still interchangeable, you just need to drill new holes if you swap a bed.
Is your trailer hitch a 3 piece? If so you might be able to swap the side plates and gain or lose the length needed.