This Ford F-250 Highboy Reminds Us Why Old Pickups Were Better

Fat Fender Garage tastefully upgraded the truck while retaining its vintage flair, including the original patina.

Photo by: Hot Lap Studios

By: Anthony Alaniz

Nov 10, 2024 at 9:00am ET

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Trucks used to be tools. They weren’t fancy or luxurious. Automakers designed them to get things done without too much pomp and circumstance getting in the way of hard work. A stunning restoration of this 1978 Ford F-250 Highboy serves as a glorious reminder to how awesome these pickups used to be.

The Ford, built by Fat Fender Garage, served a life working on an Arizona ranch before being rescued and restored. It retains much of its original beauty, including its original patina that pops through the Candy Apple red exterior paint. Fat Fender also made subtle upgrades to the cabin without cramming it with screens or subscriptions services.

Photos by: Hot Lap Studios

There are custom burl walnut wood inserts on the door, designed to match the original glovebox, CNC-cut door and kick panels, and billet aluminum window cranks. Fat Fender replaced all the plastic with foam and leather, elevating the feel, while using Pendleton Grand Canyon fabric inserts on the bench seat, door panels, and sun visors. The truck even comes with upgraded air conditioning that retains the dashboard’s classic look.

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Fat Fender even kept it old-school under the hood with a rebuilt 7.5-liter Lincoln V-8 that makes a very vintage 245 horsepower. The Highboy has front and rear Dana 60 axles from a 2022 Super Duty, a rebuilt transfer case, Fox Performance Shocks, Edelbrock electric fuel injection, Battle Born brakes, upgraded electrical, and a custom exhaust.

It was on display at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas. And we love it.