Ford Highboy Truck (1967-1977): History, Specs & Buying Guide

If you’ve spent any time around classic Ford trucks, you’ve probably heard people talk about Ford Highboy Trucks. These special F-250 4x4s have a dedicated following, and for good reason.

They’re tough, capable, and have a unique look that sets them apart from other trucks of their era.

Let’s see what makes these trucks so special.

What is a Ford Highboy?

Ford Highboy Trucks are a special F-250 4×4 truck built between 1967 and mid-1977. The name “Highboy” wasn’t something Ford came up with – it was a nickname that truck folks gave these models because they sat noticeably taller than other 4x4s, even straight from the factory.

No lift kit needed. These unique Ford Highboy 4x4s are among the most sought-after classic trucks, known for their distinctive height and capability.

What Makes a Highboy Special?

The easiest way to spot a Highboy is by its height, but there’s more to these trucks than just their tall stance:

• They sit about 2-3 inches higher than regular F-250s
• The transfer case (which sends power to the front wheels) is mounted separately from the transmission
• They have a unique front suspension setup
• The frame is built differently than standard F-250s
• The wheels stick out a bit wider than normal

The Heart of the Highboy: The Divorced Transfer Case

The most important thing that makes a Highboy different is how its transfer case is mounted. Most 4x4s have their transfer case bolted directly to the transmission, but not the Highboy.

Ford mounted its transfer case separately on the frame – what mechanics call a “divorced” setup. This might seem like a small detail, but it makes a big difference:

• It helps the driveline last longer
• Makes it easier to work on
• Gives the truck better ground clearance
• Helps it handle heavy work better

When Were Highboys Made?

Ford built these trucks in two main phases:

1967-1972

• This is when the Highboy design first showed up
• The trucks had the classic Ford look of the late ’60s
• You could get them with different engines
• Most came with manual transmissions

1973-1977.5

• Ford updated the body style
• Added more comfort features inside
• Offered bigger engine options
• The last true Highboys were built in mid-1977

Engine Choices

Highboys came with several engine options, each with its own personality:

1. 300 Inline-6
   • This was the base engine
   • Not fancy, but really reliable
   • Great for everyday work
   • Known for lasting forever
2. 360 V8
   • A step up in power from the six
   • Good mix of power and fuel economy
   • Common in early Highboys
3. 390 V8
   • The big power option
   • Great for heavy loads
   • Used a lot in work trucks
4. 460 V8
   • Available in later models
   • The biggest engine you could get
   • Popular for engine swaps today

The truck you see in the photos on this page is a 1972 Boxwood Green over Wimbledon White Highboy Ford! Here are some specs for this rebuilt truck. I’d say these specs make this old Ford truck better than a new one!

How to Identify a Ford Highboy

Not sure if you’re looking at a true Ford Highboy 4×4? Here’s what to check before you buy an old truck.

The Ford Highboy vs Lowboy debate can be settled by looking at these key identification points:

Check the VIN

The truck’s VIN will be on a plate either on the door frame or dashboard. Here’s what to look for:

• First digit is the year code
• Second digit should indicate F-250 series
• Look for 4×4 designation in the code

Physical Checks

1. Frame Details
   • Look for special mounting points
   • Check the frame rail design
   • Notice where the transfer case mounts
2. Suspension Parts
   • Check the front suspension arms
   • Look at how the leaf springs mount
   • Note where the shock absorbers connect
3. Body Features
   • Look at the space between the bed and cab
   • Check the wheel openings
   • Notice how the bumpers mount

Restoring a Ford Highboy: Tips and Costs

Planning a Ford Highboy restoration? Here’s what experienced old Ford truck restorers have learned about bringing these classic 4x4s back to life.

Whether you’re tackling a complete rebuild or just freshening up a solid truck, we’ll cover the essential parts, common challenges, and costs you might encounter.

Finding Parts for Your Restoration

• Best sources for original Ford Highboy parts
• Quality reproduction parts worth buying
• Compatible parts from other Ford trucks
• Where to find rare Highboy-specific components

Popular Restoration Projects

1. Making It More Comfortable
   • Better seats
   • Updated steering
   • Modern shocks
   • Better gauges
2. Adding Power
   • Engine rebuilds
   • Carburetor upgrades
   • Headers and exhaust
   • Transmission improvements
3. Making It More Capable
   • Better brakes
   • Stronger axles
   • Updated transfer case parts
   • Modern tires and wheels

Ford Highboy Buying Guide: What You Need to Know

Looking to buy a Ford Highboy? Whether you’re hunting for a restoration project or searching for a fully restored classic, here’s what experienced owners recommend checking before you hand over the cash.

With Ford Highboy prices ranging from $3,000 for a project truck to $50,000+ for show-quality restorations, knowing what to look for can save you thousands.

Check this out if you’re looking for info on the Dentside Ford.

Good Signs When Buying a Highboy

• Complete service records
• Original engine and transmission
• Clean frame with no major rust
• Working 4×4 system
• Original sheet metal

Watch Out For

• Rust in the cab corners and bed
• Frame damage or bad repairs
• Missing original parts
• Non-original engine swaps
• Signs of hard off-road use

Ford Highboy Investment Value and Market Trends

Thinking about buying a Ford Highboy as an investment? Here’s what you need to know about current market values and future potential.

Classic truck experts have seen steady appreciation in well-maintained Highboys, particularly for original, documented examples.

Current Market Values (2024)

Project Trucks

• Rough but complete: $3,000-$5,000
• Running projects: $5,000-$8,000
• Solid restoration candidates: $8,000-$12,000

Daily Drivers

• Good running condition: $15,000-$25,000
• Well-maintained originals: $25,000-$35,000

Show Quality

• Professionally restored: $35,000-$50,000
• Concours condition: $50,000+
• Rare configurations: $60,000+

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is a Ford Highboy Truck?

From the ground to the roof, most Highboys measure about 78-80 inches tall, about 2-3 inches taller than standard F-250s of the same era.

Why did Ford stop making Highboys?

Ford switched to a different transfer case design in mid-1977 to reduce production costs and improve ride comfort.

The new design created what people call the “Lowboy.”

Can you still daily drive a Highboy?

Yes, many people still use Highboys as daily drivers. They’re simple enough to maintain and parts are generally available. Just expect higher fuel consumption than modern trucks.

What’s the best engine for a Highboy?

The 360 and 390 V8s are popular choices because they offer good power while being relatively simple to maintain. The 300 inline-6 is great for reliability but lacks power for modern needs.

How many Highboys were made?

Ford didn’t track Highboy production separately from other F-250 4x4s, so exact numbers aren’t known. They’re not exactly rare, but good ones are getting harder to find.

What’s the fuel mileage like?

Don’t expect modern efficiency. V8 models typically get 8-12 MPG, while the inline-6 might do slightly better. A lot depends on how you drive and maintain the truck.

Are parts hard to find?

Basic maintenance parts are still readily available. Some unique Highboy-specific parts are getting scarcer, but there’s a good network of specialists and reproduction parts makers.

What’s the best Ford Highboy to buy?

For first-time buyers, a 1971-1972 Ford Highboy offers the best combination of classic styling and refined engineering. These years featured improved Ford Highboy suspension components and are often easier to find parts for.

When shopping for a Highboy project truck, look for complete vehicles with minimal rust, even if they’re not running – mechanical issues are usually easier to fix than extensive body damage.

Ford Highboy vs Lowboy: Understanding the Differences

Many truck enthusiasts want to know the key differences between a Ford Highboy vs Lowboy. Here’s what sets them apart:

Height Difference

• Highboy: Sits 2-3 inches taller due to factory suspension setup
• Lowboy: Rides lower with married transfer case design

Mechanical Differences

• Highboy: Uses divorced transfer case mounted to frame
• Lowboy: Transfer case attached directly to transmission

Production Years

• Highboy: 1967 to mid-1977
• Lowboy: Mid-1977 to 1979

Value Comparison

• Highboy: Generally commands higher prices due to uniqueness
• Lowboy: More common, typically lower market value

Wrapping Up

Highboys represent a special time in Ford truck history when these vehicles were built primarily as work tools, not comfortable daily drivers. They’re simple, strong, and have a distinctive look that still turns heads today.

Whether you’re looking to buy one or just appreciate them, these trucks have earned their place in Ford’s heritage.

If you’re thinking about getting a vintage Ford truck, take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions in the Ford truck community.

There are plenty of knowledgeable folks who love sharing what they know about these unique trucks, and at Get Vintage Vehicles, we love when you share that knowledge with us.