73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide to the Iconic "Dentside" Era
73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide to the Iconic "Dentside" Era cars.truckstrend.com
In the annals of automotive history, few vehicles command the enduring respect and affection quite like the Ford F-Series trucks produced between 1973 and 1979. Affectionately known as the "Dentside" generation by enthusiasts, these trucks represent a golden era of American manufacturing – a time when utility, ruggedness, and a distinctive aesthetic converged to create truly iconic vehicles. For many, owning a 73-79 Ford truck isn’t just about transportation; it’s about connecting with a piece of Americana, embracing a simpler mechanical age, and embarking on a journey of restoration, customization, or simply enjoying a timeless classic. If you’re considering diving into the world of these venerable Ford pickups, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate the market for 73-79 Ford trucks for sale.
The Enduring Appeal of the Dentside Era (1973-1979 Ford Trucks)
73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide to the Iconic "Dentside" Era
The "Dentside" moniker refers to the distinctive body line indentation running along the side of the truck, a design cue that instantly sets these F-Series models apart. But their appeal goes far beyond a stylistic detail.
- Robust Build Quality: These trucks were built to last. Their heavy-gauge steel construction and robust frames were designed for hard work, making them incredibly durable even decades later.
- Mechanical Simplicity: Unlike modern vehicles laden with complex electronics, Dentsides are mechanically straightforward. This makes them ideal for DIY enthusiasts, offering relatively easy maintenance and repair opportunities.
- Versatility: From basic workhorses to plush Ranger XLTs and Lariats, these trucks served a wide range of purposes. Today, they are popular platforms for everything from lifted off-roaders and lowered street machines to faithful restorations and dependable daily drivers.
- Timeless Aesthetics: The squared-off lines, prominent grilles, and classic proportions give Dentsides an undeniable visual appeal that transcends automotive trends. They simply look "right" to many truck enthusiasts.
- Nostalgia and Community: For many, these trucks evoke memories of childhood, family, or a particular era. A vibrant community of owners and restorers exists, offering a wealth of knowledge and camaraderie.
Their blend of rugged utility, classic looks, and relative ease of maintenance ensures that 73-79 Ford trucks for sale remain highly sought after in the collector and enthusiast market.
Key Models and Trim Levels to Know
The 1973-1979 F-Series lineup offered a variety of configurations to suit different needs:
- F-100: The lighter-duty half-ton truck, often 2WD, popular for everyday use and customization.
- F-150: Introduced in 1975, the F-150 became the new half-ton standard, bridging the gap between the F-100 and F-250, primarily to skirt emission regulations. Many came with heavier suspensions.
- F-250: The three-quarter-ton truck, often featuring heavier axles and suspension, popular for towing and hauling. High-boy (1973-1977.5) and Low-boy (1977.5-1979) distinctions exist, referring to the frame height on 4×4 models.
- F-350: The one-ton truck, designed for serious heavy-duty work, often found as a cab-and-chassis for custom beds or campers.
Cab Configurations:
- Regular Cab: The standard two-door configuration.
- SuperCab: Introduced in 1974, offering extended cab space behind the front seats, often with jump seats for extra passengers or storage.
- Crew Cab: A four-door configuration, less common but highly desirable, offering full seating for multiple passengers.
Trim Levels:
- Custom: The base model, no-frills work truck.
- Ranger: Added chrome, improved interior trim, and often two-tone paint.
- Ranger XLT: Further upgrades, including full carpet, more luxurious seats, and additional exterior trim.
- Lariat: The top-tier trim, offering the most premium features and interior appointments.
- Explorer/Free Wheeling: Special appearance packages offered in certain years, featuring unique graphics and color schemes.
Understanding these variations is crucial when searching for 73-79 Ford trucks for sale, as they significantly impact rarity, features, and ultimately, price.
What to Look For When Buying a 73-79 Ford Truck
Purchasing a vintage vehicle requires a keen eye and a methodical approach. Here’s a checklist of critical areas to inspect:
- Rust (The Silent Killer): This is the single biggest enemy of Dentsides. Check:
- Cab: Cab corners, floor pans (especially under the mat), rocker panels, door bottoms, cowl areas, and around the windshield.
- Fenders & Bed: Wheel arches, inner fenders, bed floor, and bedside panels.
- Frame: Inspect the entire frame for excessive surface rust, perforations, or evidence of past repairs (welds, patches) that might indicate structural weakness or accident damage.
- Engine & Transmission:
- Engines: Common options include the venerable 300 cubic inch (4.9L) inline-six, 302 (5.0L), 351M (5.8L), 351W (5.8L), 390 (6.4L), 400 (6.6L), and 460 (7.5L) V8s.
- Look for excessive smoke from the exhaust (blue for oil, black for rich fuel, white for coolant), listen for knocking or ticking noises, and check for major fluid leaks.
- Transmission: Test drive to ensure smooth shifting (manual or automatic), no slipping, and proper engagement. Check fluid levels and condition.
- Drivetrain (for 4×4 models): Engage 4WD (high and low range) to ensure the transfer case functions correctly. Listen for clunks or grinding from U-joints, differentials, or the transfer case.
- Suspension & Steering: Check for excessive play in the steering wheel, worn ball joints, tie rods, and leaf springs (sagging or broken). Look for leaky shocks.
- Brakes: Ensure the pedal feels firm, and the truck stops straight without pulling. Check for pulsing (warped rotors/drums) or grinding noises.
- Electrical System: Test all lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights), wipers, horn, gauges, radio, and heater/AC (if equipped). Old wiring can be brittle.
- Interior: Assess the condition of the seats, dashboard (cracks are common), door panels, headliner, and carpets. Are all switches and controls present and functional?
- Glass & Seals: Check for cracks in the windshield and windows. Inspect weatherstripping around doors and windows for dryness or deterioration, which can lead to leaks.
- Documentation: Always ensure the truck has a clear title that matches the VIN on the vehicle. Look for service records if available.
A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic familiar with vintage vehicles is highly recommended, especially if you’re not mechanically inclined.
Where to Find 73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale
The market for Dentsides is robust, offering several avenues for finding your next project or dream truck:
- Online Marketplaces:
- eBay Motors: A wide variety of trucks, from parts vehicles to fully restored examples.
- Craigslist/Facebook Marketplace: Excellent for local finds, often at more negotiable prices. Be prepared to travel for good deals.
- Specialized Classic Car Websites: Hemmings, ClassicCars.com, Bring a Trailer, Gateway Classic Cars often list higher-quality or more unique examples.
- Social Media Groups: Dedicated Facebook groups for "73-79 Ford Trucks" or "Dentside Owners" are fantastic resources for listings, advice, and connecting with sellers.
- Local Classifieds & Auto Trader Magazines: Don’t overlook traditional methods, especially for finding trucks from less tech-savvy sellers.
- Auctions: Major auction houses like Mecum or Barrett-Jackson occasionally feature high-end, professionally restored Dentsides. Local classic car auctions can also be good sources.
- Word of Mouth & Car Shows: Attending local classic car shows or joining enthusiast clubs can lead to discovering trucks for sale that aren’t publicly advertised.
- Barn Finds/Estate Sales: Sometimes, hidden gems emerge from long-term storage or estate liquidations, often requiring significant restoration.
Pricing Considerations and Valuation
The price of a 73-79 Ford truck can vary dramatically based on several factors:
- Condition: This is the most significant determinant. A rusted, non-running parts truck will be vastly cheaper than a fully restored, show-quality example.
- Model & Configuration: Crew Cabs and 4×4 models generally command higher prices due to rarity and demand. F-250 Highboys are particularly sought after.
- Engine & Drivetrain: Trucks with desirable engine/transmission combinations (e.g., a strong 460 V8 or a manual transmission) can fetch more.
- Originality vs. Modifications: While some prefer original, numbers-matching trucks, well-executed restomods (modern drivetrain/comforts in a classic body) can also command premium prices.
- Location: Prices can vary regionally based on supply and demand, and climate (less rust in arid regions).
- Documentation & History: A truck with a clear history, service records, or original build sheets can add value.
Estimated Price Ranges for 73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale:
| Condition Category | Model/Type | Estimated Price Range ($USD) | Key Characteristics/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project / Parts Truck | F-100/150 2WD (Any Cab) | $1,000 – $4,000 | Significant rust, non-running or major mechanical issues, incomplete, suitable for parts or full frame-off restoration. |
| F-150/250 4WD (Any Cab) | $2,000 – $7,000 | Similar issues to 2WD, but 4×4 components add value even in rough shape. | |
| F-250/350 Crew Cab (Any Drivetrain) | $3,000 – $10,000 | Highly desirable, so even poor condition examples hold more value. | |
| Driver Quality | F-100/150 2WD (Custom/Ranger) | $5,000 – $12,000 | Runs and drives, minor rust, faded paint, worn interior, needs TLC but can be enjoyed immediately. |
| F-150/250 4WD (Ranger/XLT) | $8,000 – $20,000 | Reliable runner, functional 4WD, moderate wear, may have some cosmetic flaws. | |
| F-250/350 Crew Cab (Any Trim) | $12,000 – $25,000 | Solid mechanicals, presentable but not perfect, minor issues to address, good candidate for gradual improvement. | |
| Nicely Restored / Restomod | F-100/150 2WD (XLT/Lariat) | $15,000 – $35,000+ | Repainted, clean interior, rebuilt engine/drivetrain, may have modern upgrades (AC, power steering, disc brakes, EFI). |
| F-150/250 4WD (XLT/Lariat/Highboy) | $25,000 – $50,000+ | High-quality paint, fresh interior, strong mechanicals, often lifted or customized, Highboys at the top end. | |
| F-250/350 Crew Cab (Any Drivetrain, Premium) | $30,000 – $60,000+ | Professional restoration, excellent paint and body, often with upgraded powertrains (Coyote swap, modern diesel), rare and desirable. | |
| Show Quality / Concours | Any Rare Model/Configuration | $50,000 – $100,000+ | Flawless, frame-off restoration, often original or period-correct, museum-quality. Extremely rare. |
Note: Prices are highly subjective and can fluctuate based on market demand, specific features, and seller motivation. These are general estimates.
Restoration, Customization, and Maintenance Tips
Owning a Dentside is often a journey of continuous improvement.
- Restoration: Parts availability for 73-79 Ford trucks is surprisingly good. Reproduction body panels, interior components, and mechanical parts are widely available from various aftermarket suppliers. Engine rebuild kits are plentiful. Bodywork and paint are often the most expensive aspects of a full restoration.
- Customization: These trucks are a blank canvas for personalization. Popular modifications include:
- Engine Swaps: Modern Ford Coyote V8s, diesel engines (Cummins), or larger vintage V8s.
- Suspension: Lifting kits for off-road prowess or lowering kits for a street-cruiser look.
- Brakes: Upgrading to front disc brakes (if not already equipped) or even four-wheel disc setups.
- Interior Modernization: Adding modern sound systems, comfortable seating, or even aftermarket air conditioning.
- Wheels & Tires: A vast array of options to change the stance and appearance.
- Maintenance: Dentsides are relatively simple to maintain. Regular oil changes, fluid checks (transmission, differential, coolant), grease points, and inspecting belts and hoses will keep them running reliably. Common wear items include ball joints, tie rod ends, U-joints, and brake components, all of which are readily available.
Challenges:
- Fuel Economy: Don’t expect modern MPG figures. These trucks are thirsty, especially with larger V8s.
- Rust Repair: If you’re tackling rust yourself, it’s a time-consuming and often complex process. Professional bodywork can be expensive.
- Lack of Modern Conveniences: Power windows, cruise control, and advanced safety features were rare or non-existent.
Practical Advice for Prospective Buyers
- Set a Realistic Budget: Beyond the purchase price, factor in immediate repairs, potential restoration costs, insurance, and ongoing maintenance.
- Do Your Homework: Research specific models, common issues for the year you’re interested in, and parts availability.
- Inspect Thoroughly: Never buy sight-unseen without a trusted third-party inspection. Bring a flashlight, magnet (to detect body filler), and a knowledgeable friend.
- Don’t Rush: The right truck will come along. Be patient and wait for a vehicle that truly meets your criteria and budget.
- Join the Community: Online forums (e.g., Ford-Trucks.com), Facebook groups, and local clubs are invaluable resources for advice, parts, and camaraderie.
- Consider Your Skill Level: Be honest about your mechanical abilities. A project truck can be rewarding but also overwhelming if you lack the tools, space, or expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 73-79 Ford Trucks For Sale
Q: Are parts readily available for 73-79 Ford trucks?
A: Yes, parts availability is excellent. Many mechanical and body parts are reproduced, and used parts are plentiful due to the large number of trucks originally produced.
Q: Are they good daily drivers?
A: They can be, especially if well-maintained or restomodded with modern conveniences. However, expect lower fuel economy, less refined ride quality, and a lack of modern safety features compared to new vehicles.
Q: What are the best engines for these trucks?
A: The 300 inline-six is renowned for its durability and torque. Among V8s, the 302 is popular for mild builds, while the 460 offers immense power. The 351W is generally preferred over the 351M/400 due to better aftermarket support.
Q: What kind of fuel economy can I expect?
A: Generally, 8-15 MPG, depending on the engine, transmission, gearing, and driving style. The 300 I6 typically gets the best mileage.
Q: Are 4×4 models worth more than 2WD?
A: Yes, 4×4 models, especially F-250 Highboys and Crew Cabs, typically command significantly higher prices due to their versatility and desirability.
Q: What’s the difference between an F-100 and an F-150?
A: The F-150 was introduced in 1975 primarily to bypass stricter emissions regulations that applied to light-duty trucks (F-100). F-150s often came with heavier suspensions, effectively bridging the gap between the F-100 and F-250.
Q: Can I put a modern engine in one of these trucks?
A: Absolutely! Engine swaps are a very popular modification. Modern Ford Coyote V8s and various diesel engines are common choices, offering improved power, reliability, and sometimes better fuel economy. Aftermarket kits simplify these conversions.
Conclusion
The 73-79 Ford F-Series trucks hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, and for good reason. Their rugged construction, timeless design, and mechanical simplicity make them highly desirable for a wide range of buyers, from those seeking a nostalgic cruiser to ambitious restorers and customizers. While the hunt for the perfect "Dentside" can present challenges, the rewards of owning and driving one of these iconic machines are immeasurable. With careful research, a thorough inspection, and a clear understanding of the market, you can find the perfect 73-79 Ford truck for sale to begin your own unique journey with this enduring piece of American automotive heritage.
