While Ford’s line of light duty trucks looked to be all new in 1967, it was actually based on the previous generation’s architecture from 1961 through 1966, only with new styling. Prominent features included a pronounced horizontal crease that bisected the bodywork, straight-edged wheel well openings, and a more intricate grille assembly. Trim levels were standard cab, Custom Cab, and Ranger. Also new for 1967 was the first factory cataloged crew cab, albeit on ¾-ton and larger pickups.

Powertrain availability continued from the previous year, but in 1968 the V-8 engine options were significantly changed. The 352-cid Y-block was dropped, replaced with 360- and 390-cid V-8s. These mills were FE (Ford-Edsel) architecture engines, the former essentially a destroked 390 for better torque. Also for 1968, like all vehicles sold in the U.S., the F-100 now had side marker reflectors; on each side, one was on the lower rear corner of the box side and one integrated into the side hood emblem.

The small-block 302 V-8 was added to the option list for 1969; while 1970 saw both a new grille structure and the introduction of a now popular series, the XLT—specifically the Ranger XLT. The XLT featured color-keyed full carpeting, pleated cloth and vinyl seats, extra insulation, even more bright trim and a wood-tone tailgate panel.

Additionally, a spring special Explorer package was added – exclusively painted Grabber Blue and Explorer Green. Models for 1971 made do with minor trim changes, along with the chrome front bumper and bright aluminum grille being standard, ending the era of painted grilles for entry level pickups at Ford. Trim levels were now Custom, Sport Custom, Ranger, Ranger XLT, and the spring special Explorer. The 1972 model year was essentially a carry-over, before the F-Series was replaced by a new generation for 1973.

This era of F-series continued previous generation’s trend by becoming more car-like in equipment. Notable options now included power steering, power brakes, simulated vinyl roof, remote control mirror, AM/FM stereo radio, and factory installed air conditioning.