When it comes to big, tough hauling and towing applications, Super Duty models just keep getting better. Ford's changes to its over-8500-pound GVWR trucks for 2000 add comfort, convenience and storage space, following a host of major improvements last year.

• Four-wheel anti-lock brakes standard on Lariat trim level in the F-250 and F-350 pickup, and F-350 single rear wheel chassis.
• Optional bucket seats on XL trim levels for F-250 and F-350 pickups, and F-350, -450 and -550 chassis cabs. Bucket seats accommodate commercial and individual buyers who need additional space for custom storage. Bench seats continue to be standard.
• Clean fuel (LEV) gasoline engines are standard on all Super Dutys.
• New manual telescoping trailer tow mirrors will replace non-telescoping trailer tow mirrors.
• Rear bumpers standard on all F-250 and F-350 pickups.
• Standard power windows and door locks on XLT trim levels.
• New exterior colors for F-Super Duty trucks include Harvest Gold Clearcoat Metallic and Island Blue Clearcoat Metallic.
• New interior colors include dark denim blue and medium dark parchment.

Ford F-Super Duty models are available in regular cab, four-door SuperCab, and crew cab, as well as a Class-A motorhome chassis. There are 44 different configurations, 15 of them unique to the industry. F-250 and F-350 SuperCab pickups and Chassis Cabs include a standard rear seat on all trim levels (XL, XLT and Lariat).

Ford Super Duty trucks are powered by the Triton 5.4-liter V-8 or 6.8-liter V-10 gasoline engines. Ford's 7.3-liter Power Stroke diesel engine also is available. All engines are teamed with manual or automatic overdrive transmissions.

Super Duty F-Series trucks are equipped with standard four-wheel disc brakes. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are standard on all vehicles with GVWRs over 10,000 pounds, and on all Lariat models.

All Super Duty models are available in two- or four-wheel drive. Pickups come in short- or long-box configurations and there is a delete-box option.

Gross vehicle weight ratings range from 8,800 pounds for the F-250 pickup to 19,000 pounds for the F-550 4x2 Regular Cab chassis cab. Payload ratings are available up to a maximum of 12,270 pounds.

The over-8500-pound GVWR segment of the U.S. truck market has expanded significantly in the late `90s as the service sector booms. Ford offers the industry's most complete lineup of trucks in both the under and over 8500-pound segments.

Ford sold 836,629 total F-Series trucks (combined LD and HD) in the United States in 1998. In the U.S., Super Duty F-Series trucks are built at Ford's Louisville, Kentucky assembly plant.