What Is A Classic Ford Truck Highboy?

If you’ve done any research on classic Ford trucks, then you’ve certainly heard the term “highboy” in regard to specific 4x4 models from the ‘60s and ‘70s. Ford never officially used the term “Highboy,” but it became a popular nickname among enthusiasts when it came to the 1967-1977.5 F-250 4x4. The nickname, of course, was due to the truck’s raised stance, which was required to accommodate the divorced transfer case.

What is a divorced transfer case and what defines a classic Ford truck Highboy? Keep reading to find out!

What Is a Divorced Transfer Case?

In the world of four-wheel-drive vehicles, the transfer case is a critical component that splits engine power between the front and rear axles. Modern 4x4 trucks feature a married transfer case where the transfer case is attached to the rear of the transmission, but the divorced transfer case has the transfer case attached to the frame and driven by the transmission via a short driveshaft. This transfer case design was prevalent in the era when four-wheel drive was added as an aftermarket conversion.

In contrast, a divorced transfer case is separate, or “divorced,” from the transmission. In this type of setup, the transfer case is mounted farther back on the frame and connected to the transmission by a short driveshaft. This transfer case design was prevalent in the era when a four-wheel-drive system was added as an aftermarket conversion, but it also made it easier to modify the drivetrain for specialized tasks, such as adding PTOs (power take-offs) for auxiliary equipment. Ford 4x4 trucks weren’t the only ones to feature a divorced transfer case, but the Bumpside and earlier Dentside Ford F-250 4x4s are now synonymous with this nickname.

Contrary to popular belief, the Highboy does not have a lift kit. The front end sits higher due to equipment associated with the transfer case, but a lift block is used to raise up the rear end for a leveled stance. These trucks feature a distinctly narrow frame, which is not interchangeable with 1977.5 and newer F-250s, front and rear leaf spring suspension, and either a New Process 205 or Dana 24 transfer case. Both two-speed transfer cases are durable and ideal for heavy-duty applications. In addition to the taller ride height and, to close eyes, the separated transfer case, the F-250 Highboy models are instantly obvious with a visible front crossmember, noticeable in the red truck shown above.

Velocity Signature Series Ford F-250

While the Velocity Signature Series Ford F-250 has the iconic look of the Highboy, this high-riding 4x4 features a completely modernized chassis including a married transfer case. The vintage body rides on a Velocity Exclusive frame built by Roadster Shop, and this allows for modern components such as the adjustable coilover shocks, four-wheel disc brakes, and the proven Atlas two-speed transfer case. Under the hood is an advanced Gen III 5.0L Coyote V8, which sends its 460 horsepower to the ground through a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Velocity Heritage Series Ford F-250 fuses the iconic stance and styling of a classic Ford truck with modern comfort and performance.

One of the standout features of the Velocity Ford F-250 is how seamlessly it blends classic design with contemporary comforts. Like the chassis and drivetrain, the inside of these Velocity restomods has been completely modernized with high-tech and luxury appointments. Choose from base Signature Series or the retro-inspired Heritage Series; either way, Velocity’s take on the classic Ford truck Highboy is a world-class restoration.

Check out the video below for more information on the Velocity Signature Series Ford F-250!