Image of 1962 Ford F-350, sourced from www.bigiron.com , Image Link.

Unearthing the Workhorse of the Sixties: The 1962 Ford F-350

When the dust settles on the highways of history, few vehicles stand as monuments to rugged durability like the 1962 Ford F-350. Born in an era when trucks were truly beginning to assert their dominance in the American workforce, this model from Ford's storied F-Series lineup emerged as a testament to the brand's commitment to strength and reliability. The F-350 was designed to handle the heaviest loads and toughest tasks, carving its niche in the commercial sector and becoming a beloved icon among truck enthusiasts.

Design and Innovation

The 1962 Ford F-350 boasted a no-nonsense aesthetic that was all business. Its exterior styling featured a bold, squared-off front end with a prominent grille that commanded respect on the road. The truck's sturdy body sat atop a robust chassis, ready to take on any challenge thrown its way. Inside, the cabin was functional with a focus on durability; materials were selected for their longevity rather than luxury. Yet, for its time, the F-350 offered a surprisingly comfortable ride, with an interior spacious enough for the hardworking driver to feel at ease.

Technologically, the F-350 was equipped with features that were advanced for a commercial vehicle of its day, including options for power steering and brakes. Color options ranged from utilitarian whites and grays to more vibrant reds and blues, with many owners opting for shades that matched their company livery. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the single-cab with a dual rear wheel setup, which became synonymous with heavy-duty performance.

Historical Significance

The 1962 Ford F-350 didn't just transport goods; it transported the automotive industry into a new era of truck design and capability. It set itself apart with its robust construction and payload capacity, influencing future generations of trucks that would continue to prioritize power and utility. The F-350's legacy is evident in how modern trucks balance the demands of heavy-duty performance with driver comfort.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the 1962 Ford F-350 was built to haul rather than sprint, so while top speed and acceleration figures weren't headline-grabbing, they were more than adequate for its intended commercial use. The truck handled well under load, maintaining composure over bumps and providing a sense of stability even on windy roads. Driving an F-350 was an exercise in control and confidence, with the roar of its V8 engine serving as a constant reminder of the power at the driver's disposal.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1962 Ford F-350 typically used their vehicles for work-related purposes, from construction sites to farm work. However, it wasn't uncommon to see these trucks at classic car shows or being used for recreational towing thanks to their enduring build quality. Maintenance and reliability were strong suits for the F-350, with many parts being easy to source and replace, making it a practical choice for those who wanted a classic truck that could still put in a hard day's work.

Fun Facts

The 1962 Ford F-350 has its share of interesting trivia. For instance, some were customized into fire trucks or ambulances, serving communities across America. While not known for setting speed records, the F-350 has been a record-holder in terms of endurance and reliability in various fleet applications. Criticisms were few but generally revolved around fuel economy—a common trade-off for vehicles of its size and capability.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for a well-maintained 1962 Ford F-350 can vary significantly depending on condition, originality, and provenance. With production numbers not as high as lighter-duty models, finding one can be a challenge for collectors. A ballpark figure for a fully restored example could range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more, reflecting an appreciation in value as classic trucks continue to gain popularity among enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 1962 Ford F-350 stands as a colossus in the pantheon of classic American work vehicles. Its blend of strength, simplicity, and reliability has earned it a place in the hearts of collectors and workers alike. Whether it's appreciated for its historical significance or put to use in modern times, this truck remains a symbol of an era when vehicles were built to last and to serve faithfully—a true testament to Ford's legacy of quality.

1962 Ford F-350 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1962 Ford F-350 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 1-7/16" high-BN 3Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 1-7/16" high., with 5/8" I.D. Each

1962 Ford F-350 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 6Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D. X 1/2" high, with 3/8" I.D. Each

1962 Ford F-350 Door Seal, 61-66 Ford Full Size Pickup Trucks, On Body, Pair-LM 110-CDoor Seal, 61-66 Ford Full Size Pickup Trucks, On Body, Pair

1962 Ford F-350 Door Handle Pads. 2-3/4" long & 1-3/8" long. Set-MP 739-ADoor Handle Pads. 2-3/4" long & 1-3/8" long. Set

1962 Ford F-350 Door Handle Scratch Guard Pads-MP 739-DDoor Handle Scratch Guard Pads. Replaces OEM #C3TB122418 & 19-A. 3-3/4" wide X 8-3/4" long. Pair

1962 Ford F-350 Antenna Base Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 2-1/8" long. Each-MP 800-GAntenna Base Pad. 1-5/8" wide X 2-1/8" long. Each

1962 Ford F-350 Ford Truck Instrument Cluster Housing Dash Seal-RP 50This is a high quality instrument cluster seal for 1961-1966 Ford F-Series trucks. Simple push on design installs in seconds. Comes as a 56" long piece.

1962 Ford F-350 Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track-VS 4Rear roll-up Seal. Two 18" sections sliced into metal track. this foot with no steel insert. Pair

1962 Ford F-350 Windshield Seal, 61-66 Ford Full Size Pickup, Without Trim Groove, Each-VWS 3304-BWindshield Seal, 61-66 Ford Full Size Pickup, Without Trim Groove, Each

1962 Ford F-350 Rigid division-bar channel-WC 28-96Rigid division-bar channel. Made with stainless steel bead, heavy steel core and pile lining. 96 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two or three equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.