The Ford F-Series F-250 VI Crew Cab, featuring the 4.9-liter (300 cubic inch) inline-six engine producing 113 horsepower, was a notable offering in the American heavy-duty pickup truck market from 1975 to 1979. This variant held a unique position within the sixth generation (1973-1979) of the F-Series, appealing to buyers who prioritized durability and cost-effectiveness over sheer power. The Crew Cab body style, less common than standard and SuperCab configurations, offered increased passenger room, making it suitable for families or work teams. This specific engine and trim level targeted customers needing a dependable work truck without the added expense of the larger V8 engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-250 |
| Generation | F-Series F-250 VI Crew Cab |
| Engine Type | 4.9 300 Six (113 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1975 |
| End of production | 1979 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 113 Hp |
| Power per litre | 23 Hp/l |
| Engine displacement | 4916 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 299.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 4 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 101.09 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 3.98 in. |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Max. weight | 3402 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs.) | 7500.13 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1727 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 60.99 cu. ft. |
| Length | 5652 mm |
| Length (in.) | 222.52 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3810 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 150 in. |
| Wading depth | 673 mm |
| Wading depth (in.) | 26.5 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/85 R16.5 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16.5 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The F-250 variant’s engine is the 4.9-liter (300 cubic inch) inline-six. This engine, internally known as the 300 I6, was a long-stroke design celebrated for its robustness and low-end torque. It featured a cast-iron block and cylinder head, and used a single-barrel carburetor for fuel delivery. The valvetrain employed a traditional pushrod setup. While 113 horsepower seems modest today, the engine generated a respectable 220 lb-ft of torque, making it well-suited for hauling and towing tasks. A three-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a simple and dependable shifting experience. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for work applications, prioritizing low-end power over high-speed acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
Driving the F-250 4.9L provided a practical experience. Acceleration was deliberately moderate, and the engine excelled at maintaining consistent speeds while carrying heavy loads. The manual transmission required deliberate shifting, and the absence of power steering (available as an option) meant considerable effort was needed for low-speed maneuvers. Compared to the optional V8 engines (302, 351, and 460 cubic inch), the 4.9L was noticeably slower, particularly when ascending hills or towing. However, the six-cylinder engine was considerably more fuel-efficient than the V8s, a crucial factor for many buyers. The leaf spring rear suspension provided a firm ride, especially when the truck was unloaded, but it proved capable of handling substantial payloads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-250 Crew Cab 4.9L typically came with basic, work-focused features. Standard amenities included a vinyl bench seat, a straightforward dashboard with essential gauges, and a heavy-duty radiator. The interior trim was functional rather than luxurious. Optional extras included power steering, air conditioning, an upgraded radio, and a sliding rear window. The Crew Cab configuration itself was a significant upgrade, offering considerably more rear seat legroom than the standard cab models. The exterior generally featured minimal chrome trim, reflecting the truck’s utilitarian purpose. Paint options were usually limited to solid colors, with two-tone paint schemes available at an additional cost.
Chassis & Braking
The F-250 chassis was a strong ladder frame construction, designed to withstand the demands of heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilized independent coil springs, providing a relatively comfortable ride for a truck of its size. The rear suspension employed leaf springs, which were well-suited for carrying heavy loads. Braking was handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Power steering was an optional extra, and many trucks were equipped with manual steering. The 16.5-inch wheels were typically fitted with heavy-duty tires designed for both on-road and off-road use.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-250 4.9L Crew Cab was generally well-received by buyers who needed a capable and affordable work truck with expanded passenger space. Critics praised the engine’s durability and fuel efficiency, but noted its lack of outright power. Compared to the V8-powered F-250s, the 4.9L offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. It was often considered a good choice for buyers who primarily used their trucks for local hauling and light towing. The 4.9L engine was also favored by those who valued simplicity and ease of maintenance.
Legacy
The 4.9-liter inline-six engine proved to be exceptionally durable, and many examples are still in operation today. Its simplicity and robust construction made it relatively easy to maintain, and parts availability remains good. In the used car market, F-250s equipped with this engine are often sought after by those who appreciate their reliability and affordability. While not as collectible as some of the higher-performance F-Series variants, the 4.9L-powered trucks represent a significant piece of American automotive history, embodying the spirit of hard work and dependability. The engine’s longevity has cemented its reputation as a workhorse, and it continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a classic pickup truck that can still perform reliably.
