1977 Ford F250 Super Duty Crew Cab 4.9 liter (300 cid) six
Summary:
Solid, simple, dependable hauler or tow rig
Faults:
Mostly electrical problems...I've had to replace the instrument cluster housing due to crumbling plastic (old age or heat), and the dash lights are flaky. I had to replace all the door switches (rusted solid) and add some accessory come light kits up front. All doors were sticky due to lack of use, and I had to open each door panel to service. The door panels are molded plastic and easy to break. I also have a hard time keeping bulb sockets properly grounded. It has a small exhaust leak which is noticeable.
General Comments:
I like the 300 six - it runs smooth and has a great reputation for longevity (300,000+) but I'm not sure if it's enough for the crew cab, especially when I use it for towing. With a small travel trailer behind it, I wish I had a 390 under the hood. Servicability of the 300 is very good, gas mileage is decent (15-18mpg). Truck is very comfortable for cruising down the road, but the NP435 tranny is a bit of a bear to move through the gears when running around town. Turning radii on these Ford trucks leaves a lot to be desired.
Of all the crew cab packages available in the 1970's, Ford seems to have the best overall package. Dodge builds theirs too tinny, and GM only builds a long bed crew cab. The Ford F250 crew is just the right size - not too big or too small, and really well built.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th January, 2009
26th Dec 2009, 02:38
I just kept hunting through the junk yards until I found an cluster that was better than the one that came out of my truck - most weren't. I'm guessing a well-kept or garaged truck might have better plastic parts, but the crumbling instrument cluster housing is still a big Ford design flaw in these trucks.
21st Nov 2009, 11:40
I have one of these trucks that I am doing a full restoration on. It is a great truck and did a lot of hauling with it. I was wondering if you could tell me where I can find a replacement instrument cluster housing, since I have found that the plastic on mine is also crumbling away.