The F-100 was dropped as the base model at the end of 1983 and the now-familiar F-150 took its place as the base model F-Series truck for 1984. This generation also saw extensive use of galvanized body panels to fight corrosion which is now gaining them popularity among restorers.

The various changes that occurred between the 1983 and 1984 model years were accompanied by a slight cosmetic change- 1980-83 trucks have a plain grille with "FORD" spelled across the front of the hood in chrome letters, similar to the previous model. 1983-86 models had the letters removed, and a Ford blue oval placed in the center of the grille. This made the 1983 the first model year to feature a blue oval on the front, something that has been on every model that followed it. via