While the previous generation cab and chassis were carried over with minor changes to the vent windows, interior trim mounting locations, and floor pan shape on the transmission hump, the 1987 model was more streamlined, and maintenance items were made simpler.

The exterior was facelifted with new composite headlamps – the first American truck to have them – as part of a more aerodynamic front end.

Other mechanical upgrades from the dual-rear-wheel F-350 included four-wheel disc brakes, 10-lug wheels, and a monobeam leaf-sprung front axle.

[4] There was also a stripped chassis available, offering a 16,000 lb (7,257 kg) GVWR on two wheelbases of 158 or 178 in (4,013 or 4,521 mm) and the 7.3 L diesel engine as the sole option.

For 1988, the diesel V8 from International (Navistar) was enlarged to from 420 to 444 cubic inches (6.9 to 7.3 L); this allowed for an increase to 180 hp (130 kW) and 365 ft⋅lbf (495 N⋅m) of torque.

From 1980 through 1996, Ford offered a four-wheel-drive swing arm independent front suspension called Twin-Traction Beam (TTB).