Image of 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty, sourced from www.edmunds.com , Image Link.

Unyielding Power and Unmatched Versatility: The 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty is not just a vehicle; it's a testament to rugged capability and enduring American engineering. Born from the storied assembly lines of the Ford Motor Company, this powerhouse truck was designed to tackle the toughest jobs and the most demanding terrains. As part of the first generation of Super Duties, the F-350's introduction in the late 90s marked a pivotal moment for Ford, redefining the heavy-duty truck segment with its unparalleled strength and durability. One unique fact that truck enthusiasts might find intriguing is that the 2004 model year was among the last to offer the legendary 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine, a powerplant revered for its reliability and performance.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty exudes a sense of indomitable presence, with its bold, blocky lines and a commanding front grille that announces its arrival with authority. The interior is a blend of functionality and comfort, featuring durable materials built to withstand the rigors of heavy use. For its time, the F-350 was equipped with technology that was both practical and ahead of its curve, such as an optional rearview camera—a feature that has since become standard in most modern vehicles. Color options ranged from the classic Oxford White to the deep Dark Shadow Grey, with True Blue being a popular choice among enthusiasts for its eye-catching appeal. The truck was available in various body styles, including Regular Cab, Extended Cab (SuperCab), and Crew Cab configurations, with the Crew Cab being a favorite for its spaciousness and comfort.

Historical Significance

The 2004 F-350 Super Duty's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It set new standards for what customers could expect from a heavy-duty truck, combining workhorse capabilities with an increasing focus on driver comfort and convenience. It carved out a niche for Ford in the competitive truck market and laid the groundwork for future innovations in towing technology and payload capacity.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2004 F-350 Super Duty was a force to be reckoned with. The optional 6.0L Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine delivered impressive performance figures, with enough torque to haul substantial loads without breaking a sweat. While top speed was not the primary concern for trucks in this class, acceleration from 0-60 mph was brisk for such a large vehicle, especially when equipped with the diesel engine. Handling was as expected for a vehicle of its size—solid and stable. The F-350's suspension system was designed to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride, even when fully loaded or towing heavy trailers. Drivers could feel confident behind the wheel, thanks to the truck's predictable road manners and robust chassis.

Ownership Experience

The 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty served many roles—from a reliable daily driver to an indispensable tool on construction sites. Its versatility also made it a popular choice for recreational towing, such as hauling boats or travel trailers. Maintenance and reliability were strong suits for this model, particularly with the coveted 7.3L Power Stroke engine, which was known for its longevity. Owners could generally expect straightforward repairs and accessible parts, making the F-350 Super Duty a practical choice for those who preferred to handle maintenance themselves.

Fun Facts

The F-350 has seen its share of limelight, often being the vehicle of choice in films and television shows that require a tough truck with an imposing stance. While not known for setting speed records, it has certainly set sales records for Ford, becoming an integral part of their truck lineup. Common criticisms at the time focused on fuel economy—a typical trade-off for such powerful performance—and some early issues with the 6.0L diesel engine that were later resolved by Ford.

Collector's Information

As of today, the 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty holds a unique place in the collector's market. While not as old as classic vintage trucks, it's beginning to garner attention from enthusiasts looking for a modern classic with legendary toughness. Production numbers were high given its popularity, but certain configurations, especially those with the 7.3L engine, are becoming more sought after. Value ranges can vary widely depending on condition, mileage, and specifications. Well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or more for models with rare options or particularly low mileage.

Conclusion

The 2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty stands as a monument to Ford's commitment to strength, reliability, and innovation. It's a vehicle that has earned its place in automotive history through its performance, versatility, and ability to exceed the expectations of what a heavy-duty truck can be. Whether on the job site or in a collector's garage, the F-350 remains an icon of American ingenuity and an enduring symbol of hard work.

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Rear lower door seal for driver or passenger side-ALP 6901-RRear lower door seal for driver or passenger side. Fits Crew Cab sub models only. Replaces OEM # 1C3Z-26253A24-A.

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Brake Pedal Pad. 4-3/4" wide X 2-1/4" long-CB 111-NBrake Pedal Pad. 4-3/4" wide X 2-1/4" long. Replaces OEM #'s BC3Z2457B, D3TZ2457A, D3TZ2457B. Each

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Front Lower Door Seal,99-16 Ford F-250,F-350,F-450,F-550,Excursion,Fits L or R-ELP 1001Front lower door seal on door, 99-16 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and Excursion. Fits the driver or passenger side. Sold as each. Replaces OEM# F81Z2520758AA.

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Rear Lower Door Seal,99-16 Ford F-250,F-350,F-450,F-550,Excursion,Fits L or R-ELP 1002Rear lower door seal on door, 99-16 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and Excursion. Fits the driver or passenger side. Sold as each. Replaces OEM# 1C3Z-28253A24-A.

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Front Door Seal-LM 110-LFront Door Seal. Fits regular/quad cab, on body, front left and right side. Each

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Front Door Seal-LM 110-NFront Door Seal. Fits extended cab, on body, front left and right side. Each

2004 Ford F-350 Super Duty Belt Weatherstrip Kit-WC 6900-50Belt Weatherstrip Kit. Fits the front outer driver side and passenger side. Pair. Replaces OEM #'s F81Z 2521453 AA/F81Z 2521452 AA/F81Z2625596AA.