1972 Ford F-100

1972 Ford F-100 Overview

Known as the Ford F-Series, the fifth generation of the Ford F-Series is a series of pickup trucks and commercial vehicles produced by Ford from 1967 to 1972. However, the 1972 Ford F-100 was revolutionary not because of what it could convey in its beds, but because of how it moved what was in front of it—people.

They were the first automobiles to be designed with passenger comfort in mind. Ford invested millions of dollars in the development of its Driver Oriented Cab. The fifth-generation F-series trucks were constructed on the same chassis as the fourth-generation F-series trucks, but they featured sharper design lines, a larger cab and greenhouse, and a greater variety of engine options than the previous generation.

Ford trucks with square bodywork have grown more popular among enthusiasts of the automotive culture. The fifth-generation F-Series came to an end in 1972, but it also marked the end of an era in automotive history. As a result of oil embargoes and pollution regulations, manufacturers were forced to develop cleaner, more efficient solutions to the issues of power and performance, and the F-Series was no exception.

 

What was New?

Almost identical reproduction of the 1971 model, the 1972 F-Series was on the horizon, as was the sixth-generation F-Series in the works. Aside from minor grille and color palette tweaks, two new temperature-related packages were made available, one for each season. Apart from that, the Ford F-100 was distinguished by its larger greenhouse and more appealing exterior than its predecessor.

When the Northland Special option was selected, an engine block warmer was installed, while the Super Cooling package contained the complete polar opposite: a larger capacity radiator to help in cooling the engine in hot climates or during prolonged periods of hard labor. Power brakes are now available as an option on higher-level trim levels, in addition to other small details changes.

A number of local professionals custom-built double cabins and provided aftermarket 4-wheel drive conversions for the Brazilian F-100, which was initially only available with a single cab and two-wheel drive when it was introduced.

 

Performance

Both the gasoline-powered Y-Block 272 V8 and the Georgia OHC 2.3L 4-cyl engines were retained under the hood of the 1972 Ford F-100, which was available in both gasoline and dedicated-ethanol variants. With its 260-horsepower 5.4-liter Triton V-8 engine and its 360-horsepower supercharged variant for the SVT Lightning performance truck, the Ford F-Series achieved its first real horsepower boost 27 years and five generations later. It was already 1972 when the original 240 cubic-inch I-6 engine for the F-100 was retired, as was the traditional “three-on-the-tree” manual transmission. Over time, the 302 V-8 became the engine of choice for those who wanted both power and efficiency in one package. As a result, the 300 I-6, which replaced the 240 as a standard mill for the 1972 F-250 and F-350, served as a lifeline for the F-Series line, at least until power was re-established.

1972 Ford F-100 Trim Levels

The 1972 Ford F-100 was offered in a number of different trim levels, including Custom, Custom Sport, Ranger, and Ranger XLT, the latter of which included exterior and interior trim levels that were comparable to those seen in passenger sedans at the time of its introduction.

The sleek and comfy custom cab was a welcome addition to the fleet. The braided plastic seat trim was color-matched to the outside paint to provide a seamless look. It is possible to fit three people comfortably on the cab’s full-width seat. There were also armrests and floor mats available for your convenience. In addition, the instrument cluster and cushioned dashboard contributed to the cab’s visually appealing interior.

The bright metal grille, headlight assembly, and windshield reveal molding on the outside of the bespoke cab set it apart from the competition. In addition to the basic trim’s foot-operated parking brake, a glove box with a push-button lock, and aluminum door scuff plates that improve airflow throughout the cab, the basic trim also has an automatic transmission. It had never been the case that Ford cabs had been fitted with such a comprehensive set of features.

 

Convenience Options

This lineup of Ford came with a bunch of features that included the following:

Power Breaks: They contributed to reducing stopping distance by allowing the driver to use less brake pressure and get the most efficient outcome. Power brakes also contributed to the line-up’s improved safety rating.

Cruise-o-Matic: Complete manual control or three-speed automated shifting are available with this gearbox, which includes a second hold option. On a slick surface, this is one of the finest possibilities for gaining traction.

Bucket Seats: These chairs have a sporty look to them and provide unique comfort. The outside paint is color-keyed to the foam-padded vinyl-covered seats.

Exclusive 4×4: Have Ford’s patented Mono-Beam front suspension with coil springs and forged radius rods for a smoother, more stable ride than any other four-wheel-drive vehicle. Each axle receives equal power from a single-speed transfer case linked to a four-speed gearbox.

Owner Manual

The Ford Owner Manual covers the specs, operation, and routine maintenance of the vehicle. Owner Manuals and Service Manuals for other years of the Ford F-100 Owners Manual are also available.

Safety Features

Seat belts for the driver and front passenger, as well as a seat belt anchorage for the center passenger, a padded dash and sun visor, backup lights, a dual master cylinder hydraulic brake system with a warning light, dual electrical 2-speed windshield wipers with non-glare wiper arms, a non-glare instrument panel, and safety door latches and hinges are among the many standard safety features.

 

Verdict

The Ford F-100 pickup truck from 1972 is a true milestone car if there ever was one. These second-generation F-series trucks, aside from their attractiveness, are primarily notable for their usability: they can be driven comfortably at highway speeds, with dependable brakes and surprisingly competent handling, while remaining comfortable and liveable on the inside, even if they lack the creature comforts of a King Ranch vehicle.