Ford Highboy Identification Guide: Real vs. Fake

Think your F-250 is a true Highboy? Think again. Many trucks claim the title, but only a select few are the real deal. With their towering factory stance and legendary off-road capability, genuine Ford Highboys have become some of the most sought-after vintage trucks in America.

Built between 1967 and mid-1977, these specialized F-250 4×4s earned their “Highboy” nickname from truck lovers who recognized their uniquely tall factory design. Today, their growing collector value makes proper identification more important than ever.

This definitive guide reveals exactly what makes a Ford a true Highboy and how to spot the real thing among the many imitations.

Quick Ford Highboy Identification Checklist

Need to verify a Highboy in under a minute? Check these five essential features:

✅ Divorced Transfer Case – Mounted separately from transmission, connected by a short driveshaft
✅ Frame Width– 33.5 inches wide (same as F-350)
✅ Factory Stance – Sits 2-3 inches taller than standard F-250s without lift kits
✅ Front Suspension – High-mounted spring perches, unique radius arms
✅ Wider Wheel Stance – About 1 inch wider track width

If any of these features is missing, you’re not looking at a true Ford Highboy.

Definitive Features That Make a Ford a Highboy

What exactly makes a Ford truck a true Highboy? A true Ford Highboy isn’t just any lifted F-250. It has five specific factory-designed features that distinguish it from standard F-Series trucks and later “Lowboy” models.

1. The Divorced Transfer Case: The Most Important Feature

How do you tell if a truck has a genuine Highboy transfer case? 

🔹 A true Highboy has a divorced transfer case, separate from the transmission
🔹 Look for a short driveshaft connecting the transmission to the transfer case
🔹 The transfer case is mounted directly to the frame with dedicated brackets
🔹 If it has a married transfer case (attached directly to the transmission), it’s NOT a Highboy

This is the single most definitive feature. Even if everything else looks right, without a divorced transfer case, you’re not looking at an authentic Highboy.

How do you identify a divorced transfer case?

Look underneath the truck. You’ll see:

• Transfer case mounted to the frame (not the transmission)
• Dedicated mounting brackets on the frame rails
• Short connecting driveshaft between transmission and transfer case
• Noticeable gap between the transmission and transfer case

2. Unique Frame Width and Design

What is special about a Highboy’s frame? 

Ford Highboys have a distinctive frame that’s 33.5 inches wide – the same width as F-350s of that era, not standard F-250s. This wider frame includes special brackets designed specifically for mounting the divorced transfer case.

How can you verify the Highboy frame?

• Measure the width (should be 33.5 inches)
• Look for the unique mounting brackets for the divorced transfer case
• Check for the distinct crossmember pattern
• Note the heavier-duty design compared to standard F-250s

3. Factory Tall Stance Without Modifications

Why are Ford Highboys called “Highboys”? 

The nickname “Highboy” comes from their distinctive factory tall stance. These trucks stand approximately 2-3 inches taller than standard F-250s straight from the factory – without any lift kits or modifications.

How tall is a Ford Highboy? 

A stock Highboy measures about 78-80 inches from ground to roof. This height wasn’t achieved through aftermarket modifications but was built into the truck’s original factory design.

How can you identify the factory tall stance?

• Look for a noticeable gap between the top of the tires and the wheel wells
• Check the overall proportions compared to standard F-250s
• Note the factory suspension components that create this height

4. Distinctive Front Suspension Architecture

What’s unique about a Highboy’s front suspension? 

Ford Highboys feature a specialized front suspension system unlike other F-Series trucks. This system is a key part of what gives the Highboy its distinctive stance and off-road capability.

How do you identify a Highboy’s front suspension?

• Spring perches: Look for perches positioned higher on the frame than standard models
• Radius arm design: Check for the Highboy-specific radius arm configuration
• Coil spring setup: Note the different mounting points and spring rates
• Shock placement: Observe the unique shock tower placement that accommodates the taller stance

The radius arm brackets and higher spring perch placement are telltale signs when examining a potential Highboy.

5. Wider Wheel Stance

Do Ford Highboys have a wider stance than regular trucks? 

Yes. Ford Highboys have a distinctively wider wheel stance compared to standard F-250s of the same era. This wider stance isn’t from aftermarket modifications but was designed into the truck from the factory.

How much wider is a Highboy’s stance? 

The track width is approximately 1-inch wider than standard F-Series models, with factory wheels that sit with more outward offset.

How can you identify the wider stance?

• Notice how the wheels protrude slightly from the body line
• Observe the factory wheel offset that places the wheels further outward
• Check the axle design, which is specific to accommodate this wider stance

This wider stance provides better stability off-road and contributes to the Highboy’s commanding appearance.

Step-by-Step Highboy Identification Guide

How do you identify a true Ford Highboy truck? Use this comprehensive checklist when examining a potential Highboy purchase:

Frame Inspection

What should you look for when inspecting a Highboy’s frame?

1. Measure frame width: Should be exactly 33.5 inches wide
2. Look for divorced transfer case mounts: Distinctive brackets on the frame rails
3. Check crossmember design: Specific pattern unique to Highboy models
4. Examine frame kicks: The frame should have specific “kicks” or bends in certain locations

Drivetrain Verification

How do you verify a Highboy’s drivetrain is authentic?

1. Locate the transfer case: Must be mounted to the frame, not the transmission
2. Identify the short driveshaft: Look for the shaft that connects transmission to the separate transfer case
3. Check transfer case model: Should be an NP203 (1973-1977) or Dana 24 (1967-1972)
4. Verify mounting hardware: Original factory brackets have a distinctive design and mounting pattern

Suspension Assessment

What are the key suspension components to check on a Highboy?

1. Examine front radius arms: Unique design with specific mounting locations only found on Highboys
2. Measure spring perch height: Must be higher than standard F-250 models
3. Check front axle: High-pinion Dana 44 front axle (1967-1971.5) or Dana 44 low-pinion (1971.5-1977)
4. Inspect rear springs: Special pack design with specific mounting points that differ from standard models

Body Verification

How do you verify a Highboy’s body is authentic?

1. Check body-to-frame clearance: Must be higher than standard models (factory measurement)
2. Measure wheel well gaps: Should have specific factory clearances that are unique to Highboys
3. Examine door tag/VIN: Look for F-250 4×4 designation for the years 1967-1977 (mid-year)
4. Look for factory reinforcements: Certain body panels have additional bracing specific to Highboy models

Year-Specific Identification Points

1967-1972 Models (First Generation)

• Dana 24 transfer case
• Single-piece front driveshaft
• High-pinion Dana 44 front axle (until mid-1971)
• Distinctive round front marker lights

1973-1977.5 Models (Second Generation)

• NP203 transfer case
• Two-piece front driveshaft
• Low-pinion Dana 44 front axle
• Rectangular front marker lights
• Production ended mid-1977 when Ford switched to the “Lowboy” design

Love these trucks? Check out this post on vintage surf Broncos!

Common Highboy Misidentifications

What trucks are often mistaken for true Highboys? Many trucks are incorrectly labeled or sold as Highboys. Here’s what is NOT a true Ford Highboy:

Modified Standard F-250s

Can a lifted F-250 be considered a Highboy? No. A standard F-250 that has been lifted to achieve Highboy height is not a true Highboy. Look for:

• Aftermarket lift kits instead of factory stance
• Standard transfer case setup (not divorced)
• Frame modifications that attempt to mimic Highboy characteristics

“Lowboy” Models (Mid-1977-1979)

Is a Ford “Lowboy” the same as a Highboy? No. Lowboys are often confused with Highboys but have significant differences:

• Feature a married transfer case (attached directly to transmission)
• Sit lower than true Highboys from the factory
• Have different suspension geometry and frame design
• Were produced from mid-1977 through 1979

Custom Builds

What about custom “Highboy tribute” builds? These are not authentic Highboys:

• Trucks with aftermarket kits designed to convert standard models to Highboy appearance
• Hybrid builds using some Highboy components on non-Highboy trucks
• “Tribute” builds that approximate the Highboy look but lack the authentic factory engineering

Visual Identification Guide

How can you visually identify a Ford Highboy at a glance? When examining a potential Highboy, look for these distinctive visual cues from different angles:

From the Side

What side-view features identify a Highboy?

• Noticeable gap between fender wells and tires (approximately 2-3 inches)
• Distinct profile showing higher factory ride height
• Specific body line that sits higher from the frame
• Natural tall stance without aftermarket lift components

From Underneath

What should you look for under a Highboy?

• Divorced transfer case mounted to the frame (the definitive feature)
• Specific radius arm configuration unique to Highboys
• Unique crossmember design with special mounting points
• Short driveshaft connecting transmission to transfer case

From the Front

How does a Highboy look different from the front?

• Wider stance with wheels sitting farther out than standard models
• Higher overall profile with distinctive proportions
• Specific bumper mounting position that’s higher than standard F-250s
• Wheel offset that places tires slightly outside the fenders

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Highboy and a Lowboy?

The key differences between Ford Highboys and Lowboys are:

1. Transfer Case Design:
   • Highboy: Features a divorced transfer case mounted separately to the frame
   • Lowboy: Uses a married transfer case attached directly to the transmission
2. Factory Height:
   • Highboy: Sits 2-3 inches taller from the factory
   • Lowboy: Rides lower with a different suspension geometry
3. Production Period:
   • Highboy: Built from 1967 to mid-1977
   • Lowboy: Manufactured from mid-1977 to 1979
4. Frame Design:
   • Highboy: Uses unique frame with specific mounting brackets for the divorced transfer case
   • Lowboy: Features redesigned frame to accommodate the married transfer case
5. Market Value:
   • Highboy: Generally commands higher prices due to their distinctive design and collector status
   • Lowboy: Typically valued lower in the collector market

How can I tell if my Ford truck is a real Highboy?

The definitive way to identify a true Highboy is to check for these key features:

1. Look underneath for a divorced transfer case mounted to the frame (not the transmission)
2. Verify the truck is an F-250 4×4 from 1967-1977 (mid-year)
3. Confirm it has the factory tall stance without aftermarket modifications
4. Check for the specific front suspension design with unique radius arms
5. Measure the frame width (should be 33.5 inches)

Why are Ford Highboys so popular with collectors?

Ford Highboys are popular with collectors for several reasons:

1. Their distinctive factory stance and appearance
2. The unique engineering approach with the divorced transfer case
3. Limited production compared to standard F-Series trucks
4. Their capability and durability that continues to impress today
5. Growing appreciation for vintage trucks with original features

Can I convert a Lowboy to a Highboy?

While technically possible, converting a Lowboy to a true Highboy is extensive and expensive:

1. Requires frame modifications or replacement
2. Needs a complete drivetrain reconfiguration
3. Demands significant suspension modifications
4. Necessitates body mounting adjustments
5. Often costs more than simply purchasing an authentic Highboy

Most experts recommend buying a genuine Highboy rather than attempting a conversion.

What years are Ford Highboy trucks?

Ford produced true Highboy trucks from 1967 through mid-1977. The production breaks down into two distinct generations:

1. First Generation: 1967-1972 (featuring the earlier body style)
2. Second Generation: 1973-mid 1977 (with the updated body design)

Production ended in mid-1977 when Ford switched to the “Lowboy” design with a married transfer case.

Are There Fake Highboys?

Yes, fake or misidentified Highboys are common in the vintage truck market. Many sellers (both dealers and private) mislabel regular F-250s as Highboys, either from ignorance or to inflate prices.

How Fake Highboys Happen

Lifted Standard F-250s

• Some owners lift non-Highboy F-250s to mimic the factory stance of a true Highboy
• A lifted 1977.5-1979 F-250 may look like a Highboy but lacks the divorced transfer case and correct frame width
• These modified trucks can fool casual observers but not knowledgeable enthusiasts

Frame Swaps & Drivetrain Modifications

• Some builders swap in Highboy parts—like the divorced transfer case—onto a later model Lowboy frame 
• Others may put a Highboy cab onto a non-Highboy frame, creating a hybrid that looks real but isn’t factory-original
• These “partial Highboys” lack the complete authentic engineering design

Incorrect VIN & Data Plate Claims

• Some sellers claim their truck is a Highboy without verifying the VIN and data plates
• While VINs can confirm an F-250 4×4, they don’t directly indicate Highboy status—you must check the frame, transfer case, and suspension 
• True verification requires physical inspection of the key components

Tribute Builds & Clones

• Some enthusiasts build “tribute” Highboys using non-original parts
• While these trucks might be well-done, they are not authentic factory Highboys and shouldn’t be valued the same
• Some builders are upfront about their tribute builds, but others may misrepresent them

Common Red Flags When Buying a “Highboy”

🚩 Seller claims: “All original Highboy” but has a married transfer case
🚩 Price discrepancies: Priced far below market value for authentic Highboys
🚩 Missing documentation: No build sheet, door jamb tag, or proper VIN verification
🚩 Mismatched components: Original cab but newer frame, or vice versa
🚩 Recent frame swaps: Fresh welds, new paint, or non-factory mounting brackets
🚩 Dealer confusion: Many dealers don’t understand the distinction between lifted F-250s and true Highboys

How to Avoid Highboy Scams

1. Always inspect underneath: No matter what the seller claims, physically verify the divorced transfer case
2. Bring a measuring tape: Check the actual frame width yourself
3. Check VIN dates: Make sure the vehicle falls within the 1967-mid 1977 production window
4. Look for mismatched parts: Non-factory brackets, modern suspension components, or aftermarket lift kits
5. Be wary of “frame-off restorations”: While legitimate truck restorations exist, this claim is sometimes used to hide non-original frames
6. Get an expert opinion: If investing significant money, have a Highboy specialist inspect the truck

Does it really matter if a Highboy is authentic?

The importance of Highboy authenticity depends on your priorities:

For Collectors and Investors

• Authentic Highboys command premium prices (often 25-40% higher than modified trucks)
• Original examples have greater historical significance and investment potential
• Documentation and verification become crucial for high-value transactions

For Casual Enthusiasts

• A well-built tribute or modified truck might deliver a similar experience
• Some modified trucks offer improved performance with modern components
• If you’re not concerned with investment value, authenticity may matter less

For Restorers

• Starting with a genuine Highboy often means less fabrication work
• Original trucks provide the correct reference points for authentic restoration
• Finding correct parts is easier when you start with the right foundation

The most important thing is transparency in the marketplace. Whether buying or selling, accurate representation of a truck’s history and modifications ensures fair transactions and preserves the legacy of these iconic vehicles.

Final Thoughts

The Ford Highboy represents a distinctive era in American truck design. The divorced transfer case and unique factory stance make these trucks immediately identifiable to knowledgeable enthusiasts.

Whether you’re considering purchasing one or verifying what you already own, these identification points will help you determine if you’re looking at a true Ford Highboy.

If you’re considering a 2WD to 4WD conversion for your vintage truck, check out our comprehensive guide to doing it right. Learn the parts you’ll need, costs to expect, and step-by-step process.

For more detailed information about these legendary trucks, check out our comprehensive guides on Ford Highboy Engines and the complete Ford Highboy Truck history.