Ford making electronic stability standard on tractor models next year

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Updated May 9, 2017

Ford truckFor the 2018 model year, Ford is making electronic stability control and traction control brakes standard on all F-650 and F-750 tractors. The system will initially be optional on certain F-750 diesel air-braked straight trucks with high-center-of-gravity-body upfits.

Other updates the Detroit automaker announced Tuesday to its heaviest truck lineup for next model year are an available high-output 240-amp alternator for F-650 and F-750 trucks equipped with the V10 gasoline engine; an optional automatic regeneration inhibitor on diesel models; relocated oil and transmission fluid dipsticks and an available three-inch extension for the full-width front bumper on all models.

The high-output 240-amp alternator was designed for tow trucks, road service vehicles and other truck applications with high electrical demands and equipped with a 6.8-liter V10 gasoline powertrain. Ordering the higher output alternator to power auxiliary lights and equipment can eliminate the need to specify a second alternator or generator.

The available bumper extension, which was designed to limit potential hood wear and front-end collision damage, moves the full-width front bumper from flush with the grille to three inches in front of it while providing additional protection to the grille and components behind it in case of a collision.

Relocated oil and transmission fluid dipsticks can be accessed from ground level on 2018 F-650 and F-750 diesel trucks. The transmission fluid dipstick has also been moved to provide ground-level access on gasoline models. The gasoline engine’s oil dipstick was already accessible from the ground.

An optional automatic regeneration inhibitor on F-650 and F-760 diesel trucks were designed to give the operator more control over regens to clean the diesel particulate filter.

Ordering for 2018 Ford medium-duty F-650 and F-750 trucks begins this summer, with deliveries expected in the fall.

Jason Cannon has written about trucking and transportation for more than a decade and serves as Chief Editor of Commercial Carrier Journal. A Class A CDL holder, Jason is a graduate of the Porsche Sport Driving School, an honorary Duckmaster at The Peabody in Memphis, Tennessee, and a purple belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu. Reach him at [email protected]