What year did F100 start using I-beams?
The F-100 began using I-beam front suspension with the 1965 model year, when Ford introduced the Twin-I-Beam front suspension on its F-Series lineup (including the F-100).
The shift marked a major change for Ford’s light-duty trucks, moving away from the traditional solid front axle toward a design intended to improve ride quality and handling. This article traces that transition and what it meant for the F-100 and its buyers.
What the Twin-I-Beam changes meant
Twin-I-Beam refers to Ford’s front suspension arrangement that uses two I-shaped beams on either side to connect the wheel to the frame. It provides more wheel travel and a smoother ride compared with a rigid solid axle. Ford introduced this layout with the 1965 redesign of the F-Series, and it became a signature feature of many F-Series trucks for decades.
Key milestones in the transition
Below are the essential milestones that illustrate the shift to the Twin-I-Beam front suspension in the F-Series, including the F-100.
- 1965 model year: Ford introduces the Twin-I-Beam front suspension on the F-Series, including the F-100; this switches the front axle design from the previous solid-axle setup.
- 1965 onward: The Twin-I-Beam layout remains a defining feature of the F-Series trucks, with refinements to steering and ride quality over the years.
These entries show the core fact: the F-100 began using I-beams in 1965, with that design persisting in subsequent generations.
Why the change mattered for drivers
For owners and operators, the move to Twin-I-Beam front suspension offered a different ride quality, better handling on uneven pavement, and improved alignment behavior compared with the older solid-axle configurations. It also laid the groundwork for Ford’s continuing evolution of front-suspension design in its light trucks.
Summary
The F-100 started using I-beams in the 1965 model year, when Ford introduced the Twin-I-Beam front suspension on its F-Series trucks. This design remained a long-running feature of Ford’s half-ton pickups, shaping their ride and handling for decades, before newer suspension concepts eventually evolved in later generations.
When did Ford start using twin I-beam?
1965
Although the fourth-generation truck makes its debut in 1961 with a traditional solid-axle suspension, it eventually receives Ford's vaunted twin-I-beam setup in 1965.
When did Ford stop using King pins?
1991
Although they are largely obsolete, kingpin suspensions have the advantage of being able to carry much heavier weights, which is why they are still featured on some heavy trucks. Dana produced the kingpin version of the D60 axle until 1991.
Does Ford still use the twin I-beam suspension?
No, Ford does not still use Twin I-Beam on its current light-duty trucks; that suspension was phased out in the late 1990s for the F-150 and replaced with A-arm suspension. However, the rugged Twin I-Beam system is still used in two-wheel-drive versions of its larger, heavy-duty Super Duty trucks, such as the 3/4-ton and 1-ton models.
- Light-duty trucks: Ford replaced the Twin I-Beam with a more modern A-arm suspension in the F-150 and other lighter models to meet fuel economy standards and for improved handling.
- Heavy-duty trucks: The Twin I-Beam design is still used in the two-wheel-drive versions of the heavier Super Duty pickups, including F-250 and F-350, because of its durability and load-carrying capacity.
- History: The Twin I-Beam suspension was first introduced in 1965 and was a hallmark of Ford's trucks for decades. A four-wheel-drive version, called the Twin Traction Beam, was also developed and used in 4x4 models.
What year is the F-100 the most desirable?
The best year for an F-100 is subjective and depends on your priorities, but the 1956 F-100 is often considered the most desirable due to its unique wrap-around windshield and redesigned dash. For a slightly different classic look, the 1953-1955 models are also highly sought after, with 1953 marking the first year the truck was designated the "F-100". Other popular choices include the 1967 (first year of a new body style) and the 1973-1979 generations, particularly models with special packages like the Freewheeling package from the late 1970s.
This video discusses the features and desirability of the 1979 Ford F-100: 58sHagertyYouTube · May 6, 2015
Popular years and their features
- 1956: Often cited as the top choice, featuring a wrap-around windshield, a redesigned dash, and a unique grille with inset headlights.
- 1953-1955: The second generation of the F-Series, with 1953 being the first to use the F-100 designation. These years offer a classic, nostalgic look and are very popular with collectors.
- 1967: The first year of a new body style, it is favored by some for its new styling and sturdier frame.
- 1973-1979: The sixth generation is also very desirable, particularly the 1977-1979 models which came with iconic "Freewheeling" packages, featuring unique striping and interior trim.
- 1972: This is another year in the 70s that is popular among collectors.
Factors to consider
- Collectibility: The 1956 and 1973-1979 models are often the most sought-after.
- Unique features: The 1956 model stands out with its wrap-around windshield, while the 1977-1979 models have unique and iconic special edition packages.
- Engine and parts: Earlier trucks like the 1953-1956 models are iconic, but later models like those from 1967-1972 have a wider variety of engine options and a more modern feel.
