Ford highlighted its new Ranger, along with updates to the E-Series, F-650/F-750, Stripped Chassis, Super Duty and Transit, and provided information on new body-building specs, driver assistance and telematics tech, during an extended presentation at NTEA’s Truck Product Conference.
The 2019 model year Ranger is available in three series (XL, XLT and Lariat) with two cab styles (Super Cab and Super Crew).
Ford paid careful attention to making the Ranger off-road ready, providing an FX4 off-road package, terrain management system, trail control, off-road tuned suspension, electronic locking rear differential, and exposed, frame-mounted steel bash plate, in addition to the latest driver technologies.
For the 2019 MY E-Series, Ford added speed limitation (65 mph) to the 6.8-liter gas engine, ePATS engine immobilization security for all cutaways, optimized front spring rates on seven of the most popular upfitter configuration, and an ambulance prep package that no longer includes frame pucks.
New for 2019 F-650s and F-750s, Ford relocated the vertical exhaust stack 3 inches closer to the cab, extended the electronic stability control to straight frame configurations with air brakes, and added optional outside-frame-mounted air dryer, and frame holes for the propane tank and fifth wheel prep packages.
In addition, the company planned to make a Stemco front hub with sight glass standard on 8.5K rear axles in November 2018, along with providing provisions for EZ-TRAC all-wheel drive and Meritor 4x4 upfits, and a service kit for relocating the DCFM and TCM to facilitate PTO installation.
The 2019 MY Stripped Chassis features a speed limiter option (68 mph) for the F59 step van.
Ford also expected to offer a rolling glider for electric vehicle upfits in December.
The Super Duty has three engine options for the Chassis Cab version, including a 6.2L V8 gas engine for the F-250 that features a TorqShift-G transmission and boasts a best-in-class 430 pound-feet of torque.
For 2019 Super Duty pickups, Ford is adding a factory-installed fifth-wheel prep package for 4x2 models, and 4x2 availability for F-450 regular cabs.
The Super Duty Chassis Cab also receives a new wrecker prep package for 2019.
Other changes include an F-250 box delete with rearview camera prep kit (previously excluded from retail), and a fleet-only XL and XLT gas ambulance prep package, which was expected in November.
Chassis Cabs in the 2019 MY are available with after-of-axle extensions for gross vehicle weight ratings of 19,500 lbs, and include an upfitter interface module designed to operate aftermarket-installed equipment, like lift buckets, cranes and snow plows, with up to nine digital input signals.
The modules are factory installed and laptop programmable.
Ford’s 2019 Transit offers an Enhance Frontal Area Option that increases maximum frontal area up to 82 square feet in the 3.2L diesel model. The option requires a second unit body minimum edge radii of 60 millimeters (side) and 170 mm (top). The maximum completed curb weights are unchanged.
Exterior changes for 2019 include new rear recovery eye for vans without a tow hitch, increased angle rear cargo door hinges, and dual rear wheel trims with exposed lug nuts that aid torque checks.
Optional Transit equipment includes driver and front passenger step on Chassis Cabs and Cutaways, high-strength laminated tint glass for rows 2-4, and cargo-van custom decals for fleets only.
Interior changes for 2019 include standard third-row single seat removal capability and D-pillar weld nuts, and optional D-pillar grab handles, 14-seat packages with second-row double and heavy-duty, tray-style vinyl floor mats.
Ford also made several changes to address issues with the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tanks on Super Dutys, including adding a 90-degree fitting to the DEF kit for all Chassis Cab and box deletes.
For more information on CAD data requests, the Qualified Vehicle Modifier program, and body builder resources, including the Body Builder Layout Book, Incomplete Vehicle Manual and Body Equipment Mounting Manual, visit Ford’s new Body Builder Advisory Service at fordbbas.com.