Ford Trucks: A Comprehensive Guide to Their History, Models, and Performance
February 3, 2026 - 8:20:09 am

When you think of the American trucking landscape, one name dominates the conversation: Ford Trucks. For over a century, the Blue Oval has defined what it means to be "Built Ford Tough."

From the muddy construction sites of the Midwest to the vast highways connecting our nation's supply chain, Ford trucks are the backbone of the commercial industry. But how did this legacy begin? And what makes the modern lineup the preferred choice for fleet managers and owner-operators alike?

At Wallwork Truck Center, we don't just sell trucks; we understand the engineering and history behind them. As your premier commercial dealer, we have created this comprehensive guide to help you understand why a Ford truck is more than a vehicle—it is a business partner.

A Century of Innovation: A Brief History of Ford Trucks

To understand the capability of a modern Ford, you have to look at its DNA. Ford didn't just join the truck market; they invented the segment as we know it.

The Early Years (1917–1947)

The story begins in 1917 with the Model TT. Based on the famous Model T car, this vehicle featured a heavier frame and a one-ton rating. It was the first time Ford dedicated engineering specifically to hauling heavy loads. Throughout the 1930s, Ford continued to refine the concept with the Model AA and Model BB, introducing the legendary flathead V8 engine—a move that brought serious power to the working class.

The F-Series Revolution (1948)

Everything changed in 1948 with the introduction of the "Bonus Built" line—the first F-Series.

• F-1: The half-ton pickup (the grandfather of the F-150).
• F-5 through F-8: Heavy-duty commercial trucks designed for serious vocational work.
  This era established the naming convention and the philosophy that trucks needed to be comfortable for the driver yet indestructible on the job site.

The Super Duty Split (1999)

For decades, the F-150 and F-250/350 shared the same body. However, in 1999, Ford made a pivotal decision to split the lineup. They launched the Super Duty brand (F-250 through F-550) as a distinct line of trucks. These were larger, heavier, and built with a dedicated chassis for towing and upfitting. This move solidified Ford's dominance in the commercial sector, a legacy that continues today at Wallwork Truck Center.

The Modern Lineup: Engineered for Every Job

Today, the Ford truck lineup is more versatile than ever. Whether you need a light-duty supervisor vehicle or a medium-duty dump truck, there is a chassis built for your specific application.

1. The Super Duty (F-250, F-350, F-450)

The Ford Super Duty is the gold standard for heavy-duty pickups and chassis cabs.

• The Body: Since 2017, these trucks have featured a high-strength, military-grade, aluminum-alloy body. This isn't just about weight savings; aluminum doesn't rust. For fleets operating in salt-heavy winters, this adds years to the vehicle's lifespan.
• The Chassis: Beneath the aluminum lies a fully boxed high-strength steel frame, designed to minimize flexing under extreme twisting forces.

2. The Medium Duty (F-650 & F-750)

For jobs that require massive payload capacity, the F-650 and F-750 are the ultimate solutions.

• Upfit Ready: These trucks are designed with "clean CA" (Cab-to-Axle) configurations. Components like battery boxes and fuel tanks are strategically placed to ensure that custom bodies—from dump beds to beverage haulers—can be installed easily.
• Work-Ready Design: With a tilt-hood for easy engine access and a driver-centric cab, these trucks minimize downtime and maximize driver comfort.

Performance: The Heart of the Beast

A truck is only as good as its powertrain. Ford offers a range of engines and transmissions that balance raw power with total efficiency.

The Engines

• 6.7L Power Stroke® V8 Turbo Diesel: The king of torque. In its High Output configuration, this engine delivers up to 500 horsepower and a staggering 1,200 lb-ft of torque. It is the go-to choice for heavy towing and long-haul durability.
• 7.3L OHV PFI Gas V8 ("Godzilla"): For fleets that prefer gasoline, Ford introduced the largest V8 in its class. Designed for commercial-grade durability, it features a cast-iron block and delivers massive low-end torque to get heavy loads moving without the complexity of a diesel emissions system.
• 6.7L Power Stroke (Medium Duty): In the F-650/750, this diesel engine is paired with unique tuning to ensure longevity in start-stop delivery cycles.

The Transmission: TorqShift®

Power is nothing without control. Ford’s TorqShift® 10-speed automatic transmission is a marvel of engineering.

• Selectable Drive Modes: It optimizes shift points based on the situation (Tow/Haul, Slippery, Eco, Deep Sand/Snow).
• Live-Drive Power Take-Off (PTO): This allows you to power auxiliary equipment (like salt spreaders or hydraulic pumps) anytime the engine is running, whether the truck is moving or stationary.

Why Are Ford Trucks So Popular for Commercial Use?

At Wallwork Truck Center, we see customers switching to Ford every day. The reasons are clear:

1. Reliability and Uptime

"Built Ford Tough" is a promise. Ford tests their commercial trucks in the harshest conditions imaginable—from sub-zero Arctic frost to 120-degree desert heat. They are engineered to survive daily abuse, which means fewer breakdowns and more money in your pocket.

2. Technology that Assists the Driver

Modern Ford trucks are essentially mobile offices.

• Pro Trailer Backup Assist™: Makes backing up a trailer as easy as turning a knob.
• Ford Telematics™: Allows fleet managers to track vehicle health, fuel usage, and driver behavior in real-time, optimizing fleet efficiency.

3. Best-in-Class Capabilities

Year after year, Ford pushes the envelope, frequently holding "Best-in-Class" titles for payload and towing capacity. When you buy a Ford, you are buying the capability to say "yes" to heavier jobs.

Experience the Legacy at Wallwork Truck Center

Reading about Ford Trucks is one thing; driving one is another. Whether you are looking to replace a single aging unit or upgrade your entire fleet, Wallwork Truck Center is your authorized commercial partner.

We carry a vast inventory of work-ready F-Series trucks, from F-150s to F-750s. Our team understands the nuances of commercial specs—axle ratios, GVWRs, and upfit compatibility—ensuring you get the exact truck you need.

Ready to add a legend to your fleet?

Visit Wallwork Truck Center today to test drive the latest Ford models and see why they remain the undisputed kings of the road.