what is a factory highboy?

[truckfreak]

what exactly is a factory highboy?

[heep70]

An F250 or bigger 4X4. I was told that they were higher because of the low hanging T-Case that they were fitted with. I am not really for sure. I just know that I am a proud owner of one and won't give it up for anything. Pics on my website below.

[4x4x4crewcab]

Very good question.
I'm was told it is the Heavy F250'S (and or larger?) 4x4's with the 3500lb front axle option. The heavy F250's with the large front hubs and heavier gvw. The light 250's use the 1/2 ton style lockout etc...and also have the smaller knuckle pivots like the f100's. Often vehicle listings for F100's and F150 4x4 are listed as highboys but I had never thought that was correct. I think this term was used in reference to show a heavier,beefier truck was out and on the market. I hope someone else posts a response. It will be interesting to watch this post and replies

[Rockcrusher]

The highboys generally had a 2-2½+" lift block between the axle and spring packs. I believe the first highboys hit the street in the '63 model year on both the LWB F-100 and F-250 4X4's. After the F100's went to front coils only F-250's got the blocks.

[Comet]

I have been told by a reliable source that the term "High Boy" was never used by Ford in any of their marketing material, and became the "street" name by enthusiasts. I have not been able to confirm that, however. In '78 when Ford lowered the 4x4s it lost its name.