The Ultimate Guide to 1973-1979 Ford Truck Parts
Restoring or customizing a classic Ford truck from 1973 to 1979 can be an incredibly rewarding venture. These trucks, known for their durability and vintage charm, require a plethora of parts to keep them running smoothly or to refurbish them to their former glory. This guide aims to provide an in-depth overview of the various parts available for these classic trucks, comparing different types and applications, and offering insights into where to find quality components.
Comparison Table of 1973-1979 Ford Truck Parts
| Part Type | Description | Primary Use | Source Domains |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body Panels | Includes fenders, hoods, and doors | Restoration | www.lmctruck.com, www.artfiberglass.com |
| Suspension Components | Leaf springs, shocks, and control arms | Performance and repair | www.cmwtrucks.com, tomsoffroad.com |
| Engine Parts | Crankshafts, pistons, gaskets | Engine rebuilds | shop.classicindustries.com, www.ford-trucks.com |
| Interior Accessories | Seats, dashboards, and carpets | Interior restoration | raybuck.com, www.classicindustries.com |
| Electrical Components | Alternators, starters, wiring harnesses | Electrical system upgrades | www.lmctruck.com, shop.broncograveyard.com |
| Exhaust Systems | Mufflers, headers, and pipes | Emission control and performance | www.cmwtrucks.com, tomsoffroad.com |
| Lighting | Headlights, taillights, and turn signals | Safety and visibility | www.ford-trucks.com, raybuck.com |
Body Panels
Overview
The body panels of the 1973-1979 Ford trucks include critical components like hoods, fenders, and doors. These parts are essential for both the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of the vehicle.
Types of Body Panels
- Fenders: Available in both steel and fiberglass options. Fiberglass fenders can provide a lighter alternative for performance-oriented builds.
- Hoods: Often available with options for scoops or vents to enhance airflow and performance.
- Doors: Replacement doors are crucial for trucks that have experienced rust or damage.
Where to Buy
You can find quality body panels at sources like LMC Truck and Artfiberglass, which specialize in lightweight fiberglass options.
Suspension Components
Overview
Suspension parts are vital for maintaining the ride quality and handling of your truck. Whether you are restoring a classic or building a performance truck, quality suspension components are necessary.
Types of Suspension Components
- Leaf Springs: Essential for load-bearing and ride comfort.
- Shocks: Upgraded shocks can improve handling and ride quality.
- Control Arms: Necessary for proper wheel alignment and suspension geometry.
Where to Buy
High-quality suspension components can be sourced from CMW Trucks and TOMS Offroad.
Engine Parts
Overview
The engine is the heart of your classic Ford truck. Finding the right engine parts is crucial for performance and reliability.
Types of Engine Parts
- Crankshafts and Pistons: Essential for engine rebuilds.
- Gaskets: Necessary for preventing leaks and maintaining engine integrity.
- Camshafts: Performance camshafts can enhance horsepower and torque.
Where to Buy
Look for engine parts at Classic Industries and Ford-Trucks.com.
Interior Accessories
Overview
A well-appointed interior can significantly enhance the driving experience. From seating to dashboard components, interior accessories are key to restoration.
Types of Interior Accessories
- Seats: Replacement seats can improve comfort and aesthetics.
- Dashboards: Restoring the dashboard can revitalize the overall look.
- Carpets: New carpets can enhance the feel of the interior.
Where to Buy
Quality interior components are available from Raybuck Auto Body Parts and Classic Industries.
Electrical Components
Overview
Electrical systems in classic trucks can often be outdated or damaged. Upgrading these components is essential for reliability and safety.
Types of Electrical Components
- Alternators: A higher-output alternator can support modern electrical systems.
- Starters: Reliable starters are crucial for engine performance.
- Wiring Harnesses: Replacing old wiring can resolve many electrical issues.
Where to Buy
Explore electrical components at LMC Truck and Bronco Graveyard.
Exhaust Systems
Overview
An efficient exhaust system is essential for performance and emissions control in classic trucks.
Types of Exhaust Components
- Mufflers: Choose from a variety of sound profiles.
- Headers: Performance headers can enhance engine efficiency.
- Exhaust Pipes: Properly configured pipes can improve airflow.
Where to Buy
For exhaust systems, check out CMW Trucks and TOMS Offroad.
Lighting
Overview
Lighting is crucial for safety and visibility. Upgrading your truck’s lighting system can provide better illumination and a modern look.
Types of Lighting Components
- Headlights: Options range from halogen to LED for improved visibility.
- Taillights: Upgrade for better visibility and style.
- Turn Signals: Essential for safe lane changes and turns.
Where to Buy
You can purchase lighting components from Ford-Trucks.com and Raybuck Auto Body Parts.
Technical Features Comparison Table
| Feature | LMC Truck | Classic Industries | CMW Trucks | TOMS Offroad | Raybuck Auto Body Parts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Parts Availability | Extensive | Moderate | Limited | Moderate | Extensive |
| Suspension Components | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Engine Parts | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Interior Accessories | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Electrical Components | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes |
Related Video
Conclusion
In conclusion, restoring a 1973-1979 Ford truck is a labor of love that requires careful attention to detail and sourcing of the right parts. From body panels to electrical components, each part plays a crucial role in the overall performance and aesthetics of these classic vehicles. With many reputable suppliers like LMC Truck, Classic Industries, and others, enthusiasts have access to a wide range of quality components to ensure their trucks are both functional and visually appealing.
FAQ
What are the best sources for body panels for 1973-1979 Ford trucks?
The best sources include LMC Truck for a wide selection of body panels and Artfiberglass for lightweight fiberglass options.
Do I need to replace suspension components for a restored truck?
Yes, replacing worn suspension components improves ride quality and handling, making it essential for any restoration project.
Where can I find engine parts for my Ford truck?
Engine parts can be found at Classic Industries and TOMS Offroad, which offer a variety of options for engine rebuilds.
What interior accessories are recommended for a classic Ford truck?
Recommended accessories include upgraded seats, new dashboards, and carpets, all available from Raybuck Auto Body Parts.
Are there fiberglass options for body parts?
Yes, companies like Artfiberglass specialize in fiberglass body parts for weight savings and performance enhancements.
Can I upgrade the lighting in my classic Ford truck?
Absolutely! Upgrading to LED or modern halogen lights enhances visibility and safety, and parts can be found at Ford-Trucks.com.
What are the benefits of upgrading electrical components?
Upgrading electrical components can improve reliability, support modern accessories, and increase safety through better lighting and starting systems.
How do I choose the right exhaust system for my truck?
Choose an exhaust system that matches your performance goals; consider factors like sound, material, and compatibility with your engine, available at CMW Trucks.
Is it necessary to replace old wiring harnesses?
Yes, replacing old wiring harnesses can resolve many electrical issues and improve the overall safety of your truck.
What is the lead time for custom parts?
Lead times for custom parts can vary significantly; for instance, Artfiberglass mentions a timeframe of 6 to 9 weeks for shipping.