The truck featured in this article is the 1966 Ford F-100 Half Ton Pickup. The fourth generation of the Ford F-Series is a line of pickup trucks and commercial trucks that were produced by Ford from October 1960.
Ford F-Series Fourth Generation
In 1961, Ford introduced a new team of F-Series pickup trucks. Longer and lower than its predecessors, the trucks had larger dimensions and new engine and gearbox choices.
One of the most dramatic changes to the series was the Styleside, which featured a new integrated cab, and box. This particular feature would end up being discontinued after a few years.
In 1966, buyers could order a basic F-100 model for $1,950. Ford offered two different fender style options as well. The Flareside option, which had the fenders outside the box, raised the truck’s price to $2,069. The Styleside, which put the fenders inside the box, cost $2,085.
To create the look, the Styleside was extended forward to become part of the cab. The new configuration eliminated the gap between the bed and the cab, removing an area where trapped dirt, mud snow led to corrosion.
Ford felt the new design would offer a cleaner appearance and increased strength.
This 1966 Ford F-100 is a wonderful example of designers and engineers doing everything correctly.
In 1966, a new “Low Silhouette” pickup featured a single speed transfer case and mono-beam front axle.The truck sat lower than a typical 4WD pickup but had a 2 inch higher break-over point. The mono-beam front axle used coil springs and large radius arms similar to the twin I-Beam used on 2 wheel drive trucks.
Other changes for 1966 were minor and primarily cosmetic.
It was a terrific year for Ford trucks. A restyled grille was the only change of note to the 1966 F-series pickup trucks. It was the second year of the “Twin I-Beam” front suspension system where the two front axles work independently to absorb road shocks. It also holds wheel alignment which reduces tire wear.
In combination with the new Flex-O-Matic rear suspension which adjusts spring stiffness, you are guaranteed a smooth ride. Flex-O-Matic is a progressive suspension system. When the vehicle is unloaded, the suspension is designed to offer a nice ride, but as the vehicle is loaded down, more of the spring rate comes into play, firming up the suspension. They operate better than standard springs/shackles if you plan on doing any kind of hauling or towing.
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