F-150 Owners

jjson

hawkpilot,
What is the "cold start knock" on the 5.4L engine? I have a '99 F-150 with 5.4L and am not aware of problem. We have not had cold weather, yet!, here in Wisc. I did have a gas line leak that the dealer could not find! I insisted they put on the hoist and I showed them were it was leaking, just above the exhaust pipe!

hawkpilot

Look at the message boards on www.f150online.com, under Drivetrain:engines:5.4l engine problems.

Apparently, many people have had the problem in 97 and 98's, and now a couple have posted they have it in 99's.

I haven't heard it, of course, since I don't even have my Silver Beasty yet, (and hope it does not have the problem) but from what I've read, it is a knocking sound that occurs when first starting the engine after it sits a while. Many feel it is piston slap. Some feel it is lifters. I am not sure if Ford has an official position on it. Some are talking class action and so forth. Some report no problem, never heard it. Check out those message boards, and you'll know as much as I do.

Aside from this specific topic, those message boards are full of good discussions about F150's. I highly recommend F150online if you own or want to buy one of these trucks.

HP

jjson

hawkpilot,
Thanks much for the info. I own a F-150 and love it!
Hope you get yours soon. Glad to see you named it already!

Airwolf

Here's a question I would like everyone's input on. I think the answer will be yes, don't get the ORP, but I want to know what everyone else thinks, and their reasons - including if anyone has been in this delimaa before.

I will soon (within 4-6 months) buy a '99 F150 4x4. I plan to eventually (probably within a year) buy a 3" lift kit for it, with bigger tires. Assuiming the cost of the tires are not a factor, should I forgo the Off Road Package (save $900), get the skid plate set ($200), and the spend the money of the lift kit and shocks later down the line?

Like I said, I think the answer is yes, don't buy the ORP is you plan to get a lift kit.

Thanks,
Ryan Allen

dunbarton

Airwolf,

If that's your plan, don't spend the $1100 on the ORP but get the skid plates. The big 17" tires on the ORP are the biggest cost factor and you are only going to replace them anyhow. Dunbarton

Hawkpilot,

The further you get into the model year with a new F150, the longer the wait. The orders are coming in faster than they can make 'em now. Be patient, sounds like Santa will be bringing it to you. Dunbarton

signa

The wheels.com report that the F150 is delayed until Dec 2nd. was so that Ford could switch to rear disk brakes on all ABS equiped trucks.

Airwolf

I thought all the ABS 99's had disc. Did some still have drum?

Ryan

hawkpilot

Wow, I hadn't heard that. I hope I get disks all around, that would be very cool. (Airwolf, the LD trucks had rear drums, even with ABS, but the SD's had disks all round)

Signa, I'm curious, where did that info come from?

Thanks,

HP

signa

The 4 wheel disc brake info came from the forum/mailing-list at www.ford-trucks.com.
A few dealers participate in the mailing list and give us all the *dirt*. Try it!

I've been following it since I currently have a Lariat 150 with ABS on order. Unfortunately, I just got a message from my dealer that my truck is expected to arrive early, probably tomorrow. I highly doubt is was built after Dec. 2, so no rear discs for me :-(

hawkpilot

Not to belabor the point, but was there any more info given, like the reasons for the change, etc? Also, since they changed the design, would they retrofit trucks with drums as a recall (assuming it is a safety or reliability issue)?

I guess if nothing else, it may be possible to change out the drums for disks later, since they have the new parts designed for the truck.

HP

hawkpilot

Thanks for the info. I guess since mine was due on dec 7, then bumped to dec 23, I have a pretty good chance of getting the disks. That would make the extra couple weeks worthwhile... ;-)

HP

rdsum

I have noticed that the '99 Ford Trucks (F150) have a changed front seat. The seat seems to be somewhat shorter from the front to the back of the seat. This means that tall people have less support under their legs. Was this done to give the appearance of more leg room? Did the new Silverado cause Ford to give the appearance of more room since the extended cab in the Silverado has more room? I have talked to a few people about this and they all seem to say that nothing has really changed. However, take a tape measure and see that there is a difference between the '99 and '98.

I look forward to some feedback on the Ford seats.

signa

Ford changed the front bucket seats because many people complained that they were too narrow. The new seat is wider, but I didn't know it's shorter. I have a 99 on order, but have not yet sat in the new seat. I also test drove the 99 GM pickups, and didn't really find their seats any better :-(

Front seat leg room wasn't an issue on any of the trucks. (I'm 5'11", 190 lb)

Overall, I found the interior of the Ford to be much nicer than the "Interior by Fisher-Price" GMs. (I've been a Chevy truck owner for 6 years)

goldwing1

Just got the '99 F150, SC, LB, XLT, 5.4L, 4x4, LS diff., tow package. It rides nice and tight. The rear brakes are drum but it stops well. No sign of engine knock on cold starts. The seats are fine and supportive but I have a short (30") inseam. I wish the stock radio/CD player were better. Still waiting for a bedliner, aftermarket tonneau (decided too late to get the factory edition), mudflaps. Definitely a truck I will keep for long term. The four door feature is SO convenient. Gas mileage sucks (ave about 11 now) . Would not consider GM or Chrysler due to their reliability (check out chart on consumer reports web page).

Dirlton

There is a seperate topic for Ford audio systems but maybe we should get something going here as well. I'd like to hear what those of you who wish the stock audio system were better are planning to do in regards to upgrading. My 150 should arrive tomorrow and I would like to provide it with cleaner audio reproduction. Nothing complicated or fancy, just a little more oomph and clarity. Going to the local car stereo stores results (at least for me) in more confusion and frustration than I need at present. Surely there are people out there who have done some 150 specific things they are willing to share.

dunbarton

dirlton,

I thought maybe I would do the same thing but upon receiving my new F150 with stock radio, I'm just going to leave it in there.

I inquired when ordering about the 6 disc CD changer but you must order bucket seats to get it with the 1999s.

Since I don't have a good ear for high quality radios and don't put many miles on my vehicles per year, the stock radio, to me, is outstanding and better than the one that I have in my Buick LeSabre by far. Just a personal choice however.

Signa,

The issue with Ford now standardizing 4 wheel disc brakes is very interesting and I think you hit it dead center - all the hype from GM on their new Silverados. Since I ordered my new F150 in August and got it in Sept. I am out of luck. Will look for retrofit or aftermarket but I'm sure this will not be an inexspensive option. I would hope that Ford dealers could do a retrofit....... dunbarton

signa

My new truck will have the in-dash CD when it arrives. Does this system sound as good as last year's CD changer equiped system? I test drove a 98 Lariat, and thought that the sound was excellent for a stock system. I haven't heard the 99's combo system yet.

jjson

My 2 cents:, I have a '99 F-150 Lariat with the stock radio/cdplayer. I think the system sounds very good (at least to my tin ear!). The rear drum brakes are OK, however, I do notice a small difference in pedal feel from the disk on my old Explorer. Wish I had the disk all around.

Goldwing!, sounds like you got a nice truck! I put a A.R.E. hard tonnaeu. Looks great! Even got a compliment from a guy as he got out of his Chevy! The A.R.E. was a little higher $, however, I think much better quality from others I looked at. Also, latch is mounted on the back vs. top which works and looks much better.

bonnie_rick

to the www.edmunds.com front page will be a new Road Test of 1999 Ford F150/F250 Light Duty Pickups.

Let us know what you think!

Community Manager

PS Did you know our prices, etc. went up last week on the 1999 F-150s?

Thau

Hi guys! Just picked up my F150 with the Sport package today. Monochromatic clear BLACK, 17" wheels + .... Boy it looks really sharp! I have not had time to play with it yet...But I will tomorrow.
I was told the build date was Dec 14, and I would not expect to get it until after Christmas at the earliest. It is a very nice surprise to have it early. VERY NICE CHRISTMAS PRESENT ! :-)
The dealer is great. Great price, No BS, very professional. He really made the entire buying process very pleasent. If you guys from Phil, PA. area still looking for a dealer to get a F150, please let me know, and I will glandly provide you with the info. regarding this dealer.
This is the 1st F150 with the sport package the dealer has gotten in. Bunch of guys were drooling over it. Ford has made a great move by offering the sport package for the F150. whether it be RED, WHITE,or SILVER, I am sure they all will look just as sharp as the black ones. Will talk more later!

HAPPY HOLIDAY EVERYONE !!

Thau

hawkpilot

Hey, long time no post. Anyway, last I heard, The truck is coming this week (Whoohoo!) and according to my dealer, the change to rear disk brakes is true, and he is pretty sure I'll get 'em, based on the date (dec 2 is the start). Thau, glad to hear the '99 Sport is cool, I'll let you know in a few days how it looks in silver. Did you get rear disks?

I hope everybody has a nice holiday...

HP

dave40

what is it ?

hawkpilot

Actually, only a package. Look at post #314 above.

HP

GTRocks

All right guys, I am new to this post, so please forgive me if I am asking you to rehash info from one of the 439!! posts. My wife (can you believe it?) is a big truck fan. She had a Ranger a few years back (BC - Before Children) and cried when we traded it in on an Explorer. The Explorer has been great, but to repeat her, "It's just not my truck". Thus, we are thinking of getting an F150 to house the kids. Both (3 and 1 year olds) are still in car seats, so my question is: Will the supercab hold them comfortably? This would be our new "family" vehicle, so I am interested to see if anyone has done the kid thing in the back. Input would be appreciated.

Also, how much over invoice have you guys typically been paying?

Thanks for any and all inputs!!

GTRocks

And one other observation. I test drove a '99 XLT with the 4.6 v8 and it had a resonance type problem right about 58 mph. Really subtle, but I think that would drive me nuts over time. Anybody else notice this "problem"?

signa

Hawkpilot: Just picked up my F150 SC Flareside Lariat 4X4 on Saturday(12/19). No rear disc brakes, the truck was built on 11/28! I wouldn't have minded waiting an extra week to get the improved system...

Ordered on Oct. 24, delivery was scheduled for Dec. 11, but the truck came a week late.

GTRocks: I've had a car seat in the back of my 150; it fits like a glove. I do however have some concern about putting older children (or adults) back there, since the rear seatback has no headrests. I would hate to see what would happen if you were rear-ended. I almost bought the new GM just for this reason.

I test drove a 4.6, but did not feel any resonance. I actually though the engine was exceptionally smooth, but a little underpowered for my needs. I bought the 5.4. I also preferred the heavier-duty rear end that comes with the 5.4.

MSRP was $31,990. I paid $28,400 (including the $200 Ford advertising fee) Invoice was $27,950.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

GTRocks

I spent a big part of my evening at a dealer. I test drove another one, and didn't notice the resonance with it. Must have been a quirk. I drove both the 4.6L and the V6. I really don't need the power, so the 4.6L was more than sufficient for me. The V6 even had pretty good power, I was surprised. I stuck a car seat in the back to get a feel for what I was in for and was satisfied that it would work. This is going to be my wife's truck, and she is ecstatic with it. Fortunately, she's good enough not to let the dealer in on that!! Dealer was awesome. Genuinely nice and straight forward. He was looking for $400-$500 over invoice for a lot truck and said he would do $100 over if I ordered. I'm not in a big hurry, so I'll probably order. What's the wait looking like?? This will all come down to what they want to give me for a trade, or if I can sell my '94 Explorer privately.

Anyone have the torneau cover? They didn't have one on the lot, but it looks quite useful. That would cover my weather lugguge problem. How easy are they to fold back/how do they work??

I am looking at about $23k. I can't believe the new car interest rates. They were 6.9% not to long ago and the feds dropped the prime, yet the rates went up. What gives??

Thau

hawkpilot,
Welcome back! I was just wondering where everyone was ? Yep, I got disc brakes on all four. All F150 with ABS built from Dec 2 on should get it from what I understand. Hope you get yours this week. Wouldn't that be a NICE Christmas present ?
Happy Holidays.
Regards,
Thau

lwf

GTRocks,

If you're thinking about a tonneau cover, consider the fiberglass versions. I got the one made by A.R.E. Looks great on an F150.

www.4are.com

kingfish3

Dear Edmond's:
I read the article on the F150 and F250. How long has your writer been a Chevy fan? It was obvious there was a bias towards Chevy. And what's the deal with the 67 Dodge truck comparison? I thought that the Ford 5.4 engine has more torque than the Chevy 5.3 engine. Torque moves heavy loads, not horsepower. How about payload/tow ratings for each? The rear seats do seem to have less room in the Fords than Chevys.

cdean

Kingfish3
peak torque doesn't mean anything if it only is at 1 spot in the rpm range. you're not going to operate your engine @2500 rpms constantly. you need torque all over the rpm range. the larger the area under the torque curve, the more powerful the engine actually is. flatter torque curve means you get the load moving from a standstill, AND when you're doing 55 and trying to make a pass. the chevy has a much wider, flatter torque curve than the ford engine. even though the peak torque of the chevy is a little less than the ford, the overall powerband of the chevy is much better. chevy has much higher torque at lower rpms than the ford does. that's what gets a load moving. that means from a stop sign the chevy engine will get up and go without putting your foot into it. chevy carries high torque at high rpms also. the ford torque really starts to die out at high rpms ( this, by pure math, gives the chevy the higher horsepower rating).

go drive each one and you can see for yourself. every report i've read says the same thing. don't look at peak torque #'s. look at the overall torque curve.

dave40

I like the Exhaust pipes on that Ford but I think its only a six cylinder ?

bonnie_rick

the 1999 Ford F-Series Light Duty review by Karl Brauer yet, check it out.

Community Manager

PS "cdean", could you drop me an e-mail to bonnie@edmunds.com? Your address doesn't show in your profile....hint hint...

zpook

I'm still loking at the Dodge compared to the Ford. Does anybody have any comparison info on the two. I sure wish Ford had a 5 speed stick on the 5.4. Has anyone ever towed much with the 4.6, it does not sound like it has power. I need to tow a 18 ft. bass boat with it. I could really use some help!

kingfish3

Hey cdean:
Thanks for the info. about the Chevy and Ford torque curves.

Brutus

Keep shopping your interest rate. It also might be possible that the banks are waiting to drop the rates until after the holidays. People are in a spending mode now. Things will slow down after the holidays, so the banks might drop rates to entice more business. You never know.

ladyblue

Hello! To GTRocks, I've been driving the F150 for two years and the back seat is great for kids. Three teenagers have managed to survive comfortable back there, and with the new 4-door you won't have to hear "I get door!" every time you go somewhere. Tell your wife I agree with her - anything less than a full-size pickup is a waste!

TO ANYONE INTERESTED - I am selling a Raven cap from my 97 F150 Extended cab, 8foot bed. It's in brand-new condition. Interior light, headliner, front vista window. Will fit 97-99 F150.

GTRocks

Thanks for all of your inputs. I think we have pretty much decided to order one. 4.6L SuperCab XLT. Still debating the Toneau cover. I do like those Fiberglass lids. What do they cost?? Are they easy to take off if you need to haul furniture? Looks like it might be a pain. Found a website that is offering 5 years 7.54%. Best I've done....so far.

Glad to settle the kids issue...thanks!!

Dirlton

Got the factory t-cover on my new 150. Take a good hard look at it. Fits like a glove, tight, virtually waterproof, looks sharp, rolls up and stows away like a damn. If you are even considering a soft cover you won't go wrong with the one Ford offers. Also, check rebates/incentives on this site. Ford has incentive financing available through 1/4/99 I believe. I got 5.9/48 months and other options are available. Worth looking into. Also consider the off-road package if you live in a geographical area which qualifies for the "program" discount. Aside from skid plates and a hokey 4X4 decal it gets you the 17" AT tires with the chrome wheels for only $250 net. The 5.4 really scoots and hauls also. Any way you go you are going to love the truck. Good luck!  

dave40

When they comming out? How much?

hawkpilot

I hope my truck came in... I'm away from home visiting in-laws (yeah, the trip was planned way in advance and just happened to coincide with my delivery date :-(

Anyway, It is looking good for 4 wheel disks! thanks for the info. I'll post again when I get home (I'm on my bro-in-law's 'puter now)

HP

zpook

Dodge vs. Ford Help! Help!

hawkpilot

Ford rules.

Dirlton

If Dodge has so much as entered your head, even ever so slightly, there is little anyone can do for you.

slw14

Just took delievery of a 99 F-150 with the enhanced 5.4. I agree with Edmunds ref chevy's front and back seats being superior (at least in the LT). But the ford engine is def stronger than chevy's 5.3. I read a 4x4 article in Popular Mech or Popular Science also stating the ford was finally faster than GM's offerings. Overall great vehicle. Gas mileage is nothing to write home about - I've been averaging @ 14 mpg. Hopefully a tonneu cover will help.

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ladyblue

I just went through the same dilemma myself - Ford vs. Dodge, and Dodge won out. But not because Dodge was a superior truck, just got a better deal from a nice Dodge dealer and a lot of run-around and crap from the Ford dealer. I currently have a 97 F150 and the lease is just about up. It's been a GREAT ride for the past two years. The only problems were 3 recall notices and a vinyl collar that had to be replaced.

If you're looking for bells and whistles, the Dodge Ram 1500 has many more than the Ford F150. For about the same price as the Ford XLT, you can get a Ram 1500 SLT with a slightly bigger engine and more gadgets to play with, like steering wheel audio controls, cab clearence lights and heated power side view mirrors. The chrome wheels come free and the colors are more interesting on the Dodge.

As far as driving, the Dodge has tighter steering but a slightly bumpier ride. Acceleration was about the same and mileage is about the same. The Dodge has easier access to all the controls if you're short like I am. Ford is still building its truck for the 6-foot tall man. There's also more inside storage in the Dodge, like a compartment behind the rear seat (Quad Cab) and a bigger center console storage area. It all depends on personal preference. Good luck.

GTRocks

Lightning is supposed to show up in February.

Airwolf

I swear I can't find this information in any of these areas, and I KNOW that it's been discussed before.

I know the 4R100 is in the SD. And I know that the 4R70W is the E40D replacement in the F150. Is the 4R100 that much better, and can you get it in the F250LD? I'm going to order a new F150 or F250LD, but on the 250LD if the tranny is better. Any ASAP info would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Ryan

cdean

congrats, Ryan, sounds like a nice one!

ron4

Ive got nearly 5000 mi on my 99 f150 4x4 supercab w/ 5.4 engine. Still love it. Great truck so far.

I saw a article in edmonds.com on the new f150 lighting. Go to :

http://www.f150online.com/

then click on the lighting truck to review a great right up. 360 hp!