Key Takeaways:
- Bumpside Vs Dentside Starts With Design And Feel: Bumpsides (1967–1972) have a raised body line and simpler character, while dentsides (1973–1979) use a recessed line and a slightly more refined look and driving feel.
- Condition Matters More Than The Generation: Rust, wiring, suspension wear, and brake condition usually determine how good a truck is, so inspecting the foundation is more important than choosing a specific year.
- Smart Upgrades Make Either Truck Reliable: Charging, fuel, lighting, and suspension refreshes are the upgrades that pay off most, helping classic trucks drive safer and smoother without losing their vintage identity.
Few debates in the classic truck world come up as often as bumpside vs dentside. Both generations are iconic, both have strong followings, and both can be built into dependable drivers with the right approach. The differences come down to styling, year-to-year changes, and how each generation fits a build goal, whether that’s stock restoration, clean cruiser, or practical upgrades.
At TOMS OFFROAD, we support enthusiasts building both generations because the fundamentals are the same: start with a solid foundation, plan upgrades by system, and avoid buying parts without confirming the truck’s current setup. These trucks can be restored without overcomplication, but the best results come from understanding what makes each era unique before committing to a purchase or a build plan.
This guide breaks down the quick differences between bumpsides and dentsides, highlights the strengths of each generation, and explains what to inspect before buying. It also covers parts strategy and upgrade priorities that keep classic Ford trucks safe, reliable, and true to their era.
Bumpside Vs Dentside At A Glance: What Sets Them Apart
If you’re comparing classic Ford trucks, the bumpside vs dentside debate usually comes down to styling, driving feel, and how each generation fits your build goals. Both are iconic, both are highly customizable, and the best choice depends on what you want your truck to be when it’s finished.
The Quick Definition Of Each Generation
Bumpside refers to 1967–1972 F-Series trucks, named for the raised body line along the side of the truck. Dentside refers to 1973–1979 trucks, which feature a recessed body line that looks like a “dent” running down the side. They’re two back-to-back generations with different styling and small engineering changes.
The Styling Differences You’ll Notice Immediately
The easiest way to spot them is the side character line. Bumpsides have a bolder, raised crease and a clean, squared stance. Dentsides look a little more modern with a deeper inset line and slightly different grille, trim, and body proportions across the years. If you’re building for a period-correct look, this styling difference is usually what makes the decision for most enthusiasts.
Why Ford Changed The Design After 1972
Ford updated the body to refresh the look and refine the truck’s structure for the next decade of demand. The dentside generation carried the F-Series through 1979with a new design that still stayed true to the classic Ford truck identity, while allowing Ford to evolve fit and finish details.
How Each Truck Feels On The Road
Both generations drive like classic trucks, but dentsides often feel a touch more refined depending on the exact year and how the truck has been maintained. Bumpsides usually feel more “raw” and simple, which is a big part of the charm. The biggest factor isn’t the generation, though; it’s the condition of steering, suspension, brakes, and tires.
Which One Is Easier To Restore And Maintain
Both can be restored without overcomplication, but bumpsides tend to win on simplicity. Dentsides still restore well, but you’ll often deal with more year-to-year trim variations and 1970s-era wiring and accessories. Either way, the best builds start with a detailed inspection and a plan that prioritizes reliability before cosmetics.
Bumpside Strengths: Why 1967-1972 Trucks Still Win Hearts
Before getting into details, the bumpside trucks earn their reputation because they’re simple, tough, and easy to build into reliable drivers. If you want the classic look with a straightforward restoration path, this generation delivers.
- The Classic Body Lines That Made “Bumpside” Famous: The raised character line is the signature look, and it pairs perfectly with the squared stance of the 1967–1972 body. The design feels timeless, which is why so many enthusiasts choose bumpsides for clean restorations.
- Simpler Mechanical Layout For DIY Builds: These trucks are approachable to work on because so much of the platform is straightforward. When you’re troubleshooting, upgrading, or rebuilding, you’re not fighting unnecessary complexity.
- What To Watch For On Rust And Cab Condition: Like most classic trucks, the biggest threat is rust. Cab corners, floors, rockers, and bed supports deserve a close inspection. If the structure is solid, everything else becomes much easier to restore.
- The Most Common Systems That Need Refreshing: Even good trucks usually need attention in steering, suspension, brakes, fuel delivery, and electrical. Refreshing these systems is what turns a “project” into a dependable classic you can actually drive.
- The Best First Upgrades For A Reliable Driver: We like upgrades that make daily driving easier without changing the truck’s character. For example, the EFI Fuel Tank for 1967-1972 Ford Truck is a smart starting point if you want consistent fuel delivery. Charging upgrades can also make a big difference, like the 155 Amp Ford 3G Alternator for 1 Wire Setup, 289/302/351W V-Belt & Serpentine for more stable output. For a proven restoration mindset that applies across classic Ford builds, see our bronco restoration guide.
Once you refresh the basics and choose upgrades that match your goal, a bumpside becomes one of the most satisfying classic trucks to own and drive.
Dentside Strengths: Why 1973-1979 Trucks Are A Favorite Too
If bumpsides are loved for simplicity, dentsides are often chosen for the balance of classic style with a slightly more modern feel. The 1973–1979 trucks still have that vintage Ford truck identity, but with design and usability tweaks that many enthusiasts appreciate.
What Ford Improved In The Dentside Years
Ford refreshed the body design and continued refining the F-Series platform for changing expectations in the 1970s. In many cases, dentsides feel like a natural evolution of the bumpside, still classic and tough, but with more variety in trim, equipment, and comfort options depending on the year and model.
Common Dentside Trim And Body Details
Dentsides are known for the recessed body line that gives the generation its nickname. You’ll also see year-to-year changes in grille designs, marker lights, and interior trim. Because of this, dentside restorations often benefit from good documentation early, so you’re not guessing when ordering replacement parts.
Where Dentsides Rust And Wear Most
The same classic truck rust zones still apply: cab corners, floors, rockers, and bed supports. Dentsides can also show wear around door seals and hardware if the truck has seen heavy use. A clean cab structure is always the best indicator that the truck will be worth the time and money to restore.
Suspension And Steering Differences That Matter
The biggest “driving difference” between the two generations usually comes down to condition more than design. But dentsides often feel a touch more stable when steering and suspension components are refreshed and aligned correctly. If a dentside feels loose or wanders, it’s usually worn parts, not the platform itself.
How To Make A Dentside Safer For Modern Traffic
Safety upgrades should focus on visibility, braking confidence, and dependable electrical output. Better headlights, refreshed wiring, and stronger charging are practical improvements that don’t ruin the vintage look. The same upgrade logic we use in our must have upgrades for classic broncos guide applies here too: fix what affects safety and drivability first, then move to comfort and finishing details.
Buying Checklist: How To Pick The Right Truck For Your Goals
A good purchase decision makes the entire build easier. Whether you’re shopping bumpside or dentside, the right truck is the one that matches your plan, fits your budget, and starts with a solid foundation you can actually build on.
Best Choice For Stock Restoration Vs. Daily Driving
If your goal is a stock-style restoration with a clean, classic look, bumpsides often feel like the natural choice because the platform is simple and the styling is timeless. If you want a truck that leans slightly more “modern classic” with more trim variety and a broader range of comfort options, dentsides can be a great daily-driving base. Either can work, but the best choice is the one that aligns with how you’ll use the truck.
What To Inspect Before You Buy Either One
Start with the frame and body structure, then inspect the cab floors, rockers, cab corners, bed supports, and door alignment. After that, evaluate steering play, suspension wear, brake performance, and fuel delivery. Many of the most expensive problems hide in these basics, so don’t let shiny paint distract you from a weak foundation.
Title, Vin, And Year Verification Tips
Verify the year and configuration using the VIN tag and matching it to the truck’s visible details. If the truck has been swapped, modified, or pieced together over time, treat it like a custom build and document what’s actually installed before you plan parts or upgrades.
Red Flags That Turn Into Big Repair Bills
Severe rust in structural areas is the biggest red flag. Poor body repairs, misaligned panels, and heavy filler usually mean bigger problems underneath. Mechanically, watch for hacked wiring, fuel leaks, brake issues, and steering looseness. These problems can be fixed, but they can also turn a “great deal” into a stalled project. Always ensure the paperwork is in order from the seller in order to get a title for the truck in your name.
Budget Reality: What Costs The Most In Each Build
Body and paint work is usually the most expensive category, regardless of generation. After that, costs pile up fast in steering, suspension, brakes, and drivetrain refreshes if multiple systems are worn. The easiest way to control the budget is to start with the cleanest, most complete truck you can afford and plan the build in phases from the start.
Parts Strategy And Upgrade Planning For Both Generations
No matter which truck you choose, the best results come from a plan that starts with safety, builds reliability, and finishes with the details that make the truck feel complete.
Here’s how we recommend approaching parts and upgrades for both bumpsides and dentsides:
- Start With Safety And Reliability Systems First: Begin with brakes, steering, suspension, fuel, and electrical systems before you spend money on cosmetic items. When those systems are solid, the truck drives confidently, and every later upgrade makes more sense.
- Charging And Fuel System Improvements That Pay Off: A dependable electrical system and consistent fuel delivery make classic trucks far easier to live with. Upgrades like 155 Amp Ford 3G Alternator for 1 Wire Setup, 289/302/351W V-Belt & Serpentine and 120 Amp Ford 1G Alternator for 1 Wire Setup, 289/302/351W can stabilize charging, while EFI Fuel Tank for 1967-1972 Ford Truck helps modernize fuel delivery where it fits your build.
- Lighting And Visibility Upgrades That Keep It Classic: Better headlights are one of the simplest safety upgrades you can make without changing the truck’s personality. Halogen 7-inch Headlight Kit with FoMoCo Script & Wiring Harness improves visibility while keeping a period-correct look.
- Suspension Refreshes That Improve Drive Quality: Worn suspension components make any classic truck feel loose and tiring to drive. If you’re building for stance and function, parts like 2.5 Inch Lift Kit - Rear Springs, 70-76 F-100 4WD, paired with M1 Monotube Rear Shocks – 5.5-7.5", 70-79 F-100 2WD can improve control while still keeping the classic ride feel.
- Ordering Parts The Smart Way With Us: Document your year, engine, drivetrain, and what’s already been modified before you order. That’s how you avoid “almost fits” parts and keep the build moving. At TOMS OFFROAD, we help you match the right components to your exact setup, from major upgrades to the small finishing pieces that complete the truck.
When you start with a clear goal and upgrade in phases, both generations can be built into reliable classics that look right and drive the way they should.
Final Thoughts
Bumpside and dentside trucks are both classic Ford standouts, and the right choice comes down to your build goal, the truck’s condition, and how you want it to drive when it’s finished. Bumpsides often win enthusiasts over with simplicity and timeless lines, while dentsides offer a slightly newer feel with their own unmistakable style. Either way, the best builds start with a solid frame and cab, then move through steering, suspension, brakes, fuel, and electrical in a planned order.
At TOMS OFFROAD, we support classic truck builds with proven parts that help you focus on drivability first and finishing details second. When your foundation is solid and your upgrades are chosen with purpose, both generations deliver the kind of reliable, good-looking classic truck experience that keeps enthusiasts coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bumpside Vs Dentside
What years are bumpside Ford trucks?
Bumpside trucks refer to the 1967–1972 Ford F-Series generation. The nickname comes from the raised character line along the side of the body.
What years are Dentside Ford trucks?
Dentside trucks refer to the 1973–1979 Ford F-Series generation. The recessed body line gives the side profile a “dented” look, which is where the nickname comes from.
Which is more popular: bumpside vs dentside?
Both are popular, but for different reasons. Bumpsides are often chosen for their simplicity and timeless styling, while dentsides are popular for their slightly more updated look and wider trim variety.
Which one is easier to restore?
Bumpsides are often considered easier because the platform is straightforward, and restorations tend to be simpler. Dentsides can be just as buildable, but may have more year-to-year trim and wiring variation.
What should you inspect before buying either one?
Check frame condition and rust-prone body areas first, then steering play, suspension wear, brake performance, fuel system leaks, and electrical condition. These areas usually determine the true cost of the build.
What are the biggest red flags on classic Ford trucks?
Severe rust in structural areas, poor body repairs, hacked wiring, fuel leaks, brake issues, and loose steering are the most common high-cost problems that can stall a project.
