Modern
Ford truck grills hardly resemble their clunky ancestors. Since the
first factory assembled pickups made their debut over 80 years ago,
grills have adapted and advanced as much as any other part of the truck.
The first F-series truck was unveiled in 1948. It featured a recessed
grill and headlights as well as squared fenders.
Ford trucks and Ford truck grills were dramatically redesigned throughout
the 1950s. The goal was to attain greater comfort and sleeker styling.
1953 marked the 50th anniversary of the Ford truck and brought the most
significant changes in design in more than 20 years. Along with a new
grill, the front end featured shorter fenders and a hood that sloped
upward. The new “Driverized” cab also included a large,
curved windshield and all-new instrument panel.
In 1958, mesh-patterned Ford truck grills hit the market. Horsepower
increased significantly and a year later the first factory-built four
wheel drive vehicles hit the road. Other options included dual headlights
and three or four-speed manual transmissions. By the mid 1960s most
truck owners were using their vehicles for recreation as well as business.
This spawned the arrival of the crew cab and camper special models.