may be just ONE additional day on beast pickup. want to get the window visors from Ford because they come in primed & the dealer paints them to match your truck color (at least the "Gator" does). they may not have that done by Tues early PM so will probably opt for just ONE more day "delay".
now that we're about to become a part of the "have" group I can take more of an interest in the discussion here that concerns others. toward the end there, we were actually beginning to doubt if we'd ever see the truck we ordered (due to the incredibly long delay AFTER the build).
a lot has been mentioned in regard to the vopc process. note that this system became extremely unreliable for us AFTER our build. the truck simply got "lost" (and it still does not indicate any change in status). the update at the center obviously does not take place that often, often lagging the REAL status by as much as a week or more. we didn't check it before the build more often than this as it really wasn't necessary. but once it is built, you need to be "on" the dealer. if more than two WEEKS goes by without a "at-the-ramp" message after your build something is WRONG and there is no doubt at all about that at all. your dealer gets a much more up to date status report from the vopc... daily, in fact, so ask them what's the latest.
we'll report back here after the pickup is "picked up". our config is the psd 6 speed manual which will interest ones with either of those configs (well, you can't get the 6 speed with gassers, anyway).
tracy0... are you the one up in those mountains of Colorado (too lazy to go back & check)? we're interested in the usGear exhaust brake (the one with the bypass valve). we're going to need some type of diesel brake & any thoughts would surely be welcomed. someone also makes some kind of turbo brake but this is the first diesel I've owned so the darkness creeps in around the edges.
Yo-Ho --- I ordered a billett grille with my 2000 crew cab and can say that it REALLY makes a difference in the looks of the truck. I use a soft brush that cleans it thoroughly and from what I've been told it's made out of stainless steel ---- so it had better last a long time!!!!
When installed, they actually cut out the dark colored "bars" and replace the void with the billett grille so "NO RETURN" !!!
GO LEWAC !!! It's about time !! You are definitely going to enjoy!!!!
I am glad to hear y'all are finally getting your truck, hope all goes well Tue. and you are satisfied with your beast, I'm sure you will be. No we have not had our rig out to the rocky mountains yet, we sure plan on vacationing out there in the future though. We go to the smokies often but have not been since we got big blue. I have not got a exhaust brake, have tought about it but the manual says not to. It could void warranty. Any further advise on this from others?
First time poster.....about to order my '00 250,CC,7.3,auto,LB,4X2,3.73! Very excited! One nagging question about the 531/532 Trailer Towing Package/Camper Package. I'm gonna tow a 10,000lb GVWR 5er and I'm wondering if I need both the packages or just the Trailer Towing Package? Looks like the Camper package adds some heavier springs and a rear stabilizer bar.
Looking forward to many sleepless nights waiting for delivery!
Ke3qz: I noticed that you ordered a 3/4 ton crew cab and are planning on towing a 10,000# 5th wheel. In my personal opinion you NEED both. You didn't order a dually so the camper package with heavier springs and a sway bar will help with any control problems. When I ordered mine, I ordered both and was charged $295 for the camper package -- $70 for the trailer tow package . A discounted price for overlap on some items. I only tow a small travel trailer (24 ft) now, but ordered with towing a 5th wheel at a later date in mind. $70 -- what the heck - it's only money!!
Mainecowgirl: You ordered the Lariat Package which comes with a chrome trim grille and gray/black bars in the center -- honeycomb openings to each side of the center. What happens is they take your grille off, cut out the center and two honeycomb side portions creating a chrome trim piece with three "holes" in it. Now take the billet grille and insert it behind the trim piece and re-install the "total" grille. The "look" that you see where the holes were is a bunch of (24) horizontal chrome bars (stainless steel from what I have been told) 1/8" thick with a 3/8" gap in between each bar with the blue FORD logo in the middle. LOTS of chrome - which really looks impressive as far as I'm concerned. Hope this helps.
The F250 will be seriously over legal GVW with a 10K fiver. Check out the Ford-Diesel.com thread on this subject. Smokey Wren has done the math, owns a diesel F250 CC, and he says he's at max GVW with a 5 or 6k fiver. I've wrestled with the same question with a smaller trailer. Sorry I can't cite the exact location at Ford-Diesel, but you'll benefit from surfing the site anyway-guaranteed. Nothing worse than spending $30K on the wrong truck. Happy hunting.
with a fiver the GVWR is a non-issue on any of these trucks (any of them will carry at least 3k in the bed). the limit is the 20K GCWR & note that BOTH the 250 AND the 350 carry the identical rating. in fact; you actually can't pull as much with the 350 as you can with the 250! reason? ALL "rolling" weight "cuts into" that GCWR (and the 350 is heavier). the 250 ought to be able to handle a fiver in the 12K range (fully loaded) as the truck is under 8K. with a fully equipped 350 like ours... 11K is just about it (we're at 10.5K on our fiver).
ke3qz... you should be okay with what you're ordering. no, you won't have quite the lateral stability that a dually provides so it may be a benefit to go with both of those packages on the F250 (I would). remember: the COMBINED weight fully loaded (people, gas, truck, fiver... everything... cannot exceed 20K. btw.. the limitation is brakes. so if you're in fairly flat terrain even exceeding that gross slightly shouldn't be a problem... but be careful if you're at or over the GCWR as handling goes to hell exponentially when you exceed the recommended ratings. load that fiver HEAVY up front will help with stability as well. hope this helps.
tom18... good to hear from you again. and glad to hear that you're happy with your truck (and your dealer... had a hell of time finding them, I remember... and did you ever get a copy of the DORA out of them?). that was a pretty quick delivery too, so as your deal turned out, you made an excellent choice.
tracyo... I'm wondering if the reason they don't recommend a diesel brake is that we don't really need it as long as the GCWR isn't exceeded. We do have the trailer brakes and 4 wheel disks (that can dissipate heat a lot faster than the 'ole "drummers"). So need to delve into this a little more. anyone have thoughts?
Although there doesn't seem to be any differences between the F250/F350, the 'payload' capacity (GVWR) for the F350 is higher. This does come into play when towing a 5ver as the tongue weight on large trailers is usually pretty high. This makes it difficult for the F250 to 'legally' max out the GCWR, as a 5th wheel trailer that would max the GCWR would probably cause the GVWR to be exceeded.
I would never recommend that one exceed the GCWR for both saftey and legal reasons, in any terrain.
I ordered a mono-tone black y2k 250 cc v10 4x4 about 11 or 12 twelve weeks ago after a couple of months of deliberation and investigation. Just like everybody else I got a little anxious(!) waiting for the truck. On Wednesday afternoon I got a call from the fleet mgr. at the dealership (Raceway Ford in Riverside, CA) that my truck had just arrived and I could pick it in the morning after they had checked it in and cleaned it up. The next morning the fleet mgr. called me and told me (while adding strong language between every other word)that another salesman had sold MY truck to a walk-in customer the previous night after he(the fleet mgr) had gone home. The bottom line was that my truck was gone and they'd have to re-order it. Not only had I specifically ordered that exact truck, but they had a $1,000.00 deposit of mine that whole time as well. Do not under any circumstances order a truck from Raceway Ford. I'm having a hard time not wishing terrible things on that whole place. There's no excuse for that type of behavior.
porky is close in his discription of the the billet grill, except that the grill is made from aluminum rather than stainless steal, and there is no chrome other than that from the original grill, it is polished aluminum that looks like chrome, you never have to worry about any rust with it. Most dealers will not install them you have to have them installed by a after market work shop or do the job your self. I installed mine myself, not to hard if you take your time.
stymey DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH IT!! either take them to court on it for breach of contract or possibly make them take it back from the people they sold it to after all they sold your truck and it really didn't belong to them! If you have any proof of your down payment go after those [non-permissible content removed] holes!!! Sorry for the language but this type of thing pisses me off!! John
Why be so hasty to sue? stymey, I'd find out from Raceway what they plan to do for you. This is not the first time that I've heard of an ordered truck being sold out from under the orderer by a sls rep who saw the truck on the lot and didn't realize it was already sold (it's not like the truck comes off the transport with a big 'SOLD' sign on it
Does this forgive what they did, no. But, stymey, what do *you* want from them? Do you really want that truck back after someone else has driven it? I don't know that the dealership can get the truck back at this point.
If this happens to me (and my husband asked me what I'd do if this happened to me after relating a similar story to him from ford-diesel.com)). I'd be looking at priority 1 (which the dealer has to go to the regional rep to get) and price break (I'd be looking at *below* invoice on this). It's time to make the dealer start eating holdback profit (I'd be real curious what they sold your truck for .
Yes, I'd have a fit and make sure the dealership knew I wasn't happy (sounds like the fleet guy already isn't). Then I'd find out what the dealership will do to make ammends and, if I wasn't happy with their last offer, then I'd be talking to an attorney.
No, I don't know Raceway Ford but mistakes happen and I'd like their response before a knee-jerk reaction makes things worse.
Thanks everyone for the great information last week about ESOF. I now have an understanding as to how it works. Sorry I didn't reply sooner but I have been having fun while I can in the snow. You probably saw that Oklahoma got a chunk of snow last Wednesday and Thursday. The ground was warm so I knew it wouldn't last long. As far as the roads go, the snow is about all gone ... not too many snow plows here .... their theory is if the good lord put it there ... he'll take it away.
Anyway, the ESOF is the cats meow. I was able to quickly change from 2x4 to 4x4 and back. I had to go back and forth to compensate for places where the snow had melted, then I would hit a street or road that was all snow and ice. It was quick and positive everytime. There is a world of difference in traction between 2x4 with LS and 4x4 with LS.
Also, really put the 4 wheel disk/antilock brakes thu the test on snow, on ice, and on slush. Ford perfected the design on brakes as far as I am concerned .... I was able to guide the Super Duty with the brake pedal mashed .... WOW! For any of you folks that are still thinking about ordering a Super Duty, be sure to get the 4 wheel ABS and 4 wheel disks. They come standard on the Lariat but not sure about the other models .... anyway if you don't get any other options, be sure to get that. Happy motoring!
I would have no sympathy for the dealer who sold your truck. The chances of it being a simple mistake are slim and none. I wouldn't be eager to sue, but I certainly wouldn't have any problem threatening it or threatening to call the BBB or threatening to put a sign in my vehicle that says not to buy from them. That is the worst type of advertising. You should get your truck for no more than dealer invoice and they should bump your priority up to the top of their dealership priority list. If you have any hassles at all, I'd consider trying to contact Ford directly.
Stymey, it's not as though your truck was an item on the shelf in the storeroom, with your name on it. They can't just say "Oh, the label fell off and it got sold to someone else". There's a whole mass of paperwork associated with every vehicle, and there's no way that your specially ordered truck could have been mistaken for one intended to go into stock. It was sold to make a fast buck, no question. When something like this happens, you need to get to the Dealer Principal. If he/she is honest, they'll move heaven and earth to make things right. If they don't, I'd say go ahead and do your worst.
Kudos all around.And thanks to each of you for reliable/useful information. I am trying to decide between a V10 or PS. Can anyone comment on various speeds/rpms/fuel consumption for towing aprox 8000lbs. For example, I now tow 4000lbs., with a F150,drive by the tac(2500rpms),and get 10 miles-per-gal at 55 mph. A hill of any size becomes a "speed barrier". I want to go searching for mountains not avoid them and I also want to get a larger travel trailer(8300GVWR).The F250SD,CC,V10 at this point is my 1st choice. Thanks for any help.
Been calling the VOPC daily since my truck was built last week looking for a "shipped" status. Nothing. For a week now, the VOPC has been saying that my truck is "released from the assembly plant".
Taking a chance that Burlington Northern is the actual rail shipper, I went onto their web page, and entered the last eight digits of the VIN number into the "BNSF Custom Equipment Trace Input" page, and my truck is on it's way!
Last status is that the truck arrived in Naperville, IL at 2:30 in the afternoon on 1/29. Hopefully, I'll get an update soon that the truck is headed out west.
lewac, I'll be really upset I see the truck on the way to Michigan :-)
Lewac, congrats on the truck...well almost I suppose. At least they did not sell it out from underneath you like styme's truck!! I would have to agree with the paper-work...if you had money down and a VIN number, that truck belongs in your hands. Sounds like a chat with a lawyer is in order and let them know that. Maybe then they will re-consider thier decision to sell!!!! Tom18...glad all worked out well with Anderson Ford in Clinton!! That drive to Mil. is not to bad...we go by there every time we visit here family up in Minn. We usually stop at Tomah to take a breather. Jumers is one of the nicer hotels we have in this area. Actually, there are about 5-within a 2-hour radius of Bloomington-Normal, each one has a different theme. The cinnamon rolls are to DIE for there and I DO HAVE the recipe if you are interested in making them yourself. Just shoot me an email and I will send it to ya back!!!
Towing 4,000 pounds, I don't think you will improve on the mpg with the V-10, but the truck won't even hickup at most hills. I towed a 4,000-5,000 pound U-Haul from Dallas to Seattle in January 1999 with my 99 V-10 dually. I hit some nasty weather and ended up in 4wd some of the time. I have the 4.30 axle ratio and was averaging 8.5-9.5.
The lowest mpg I got pulling that U-haul was climbing into some very strong head winds. On one tank, I got 6.8. That is my lowest mpg ever and I have never come close to it again. I get better straight city mpg with my 4,000+ slide-in camper in the bed than I got on that one tank. Headwinds make a big difference. Although the 4.30s cost me some mpg, they provide plenty of umph under any conditions. Even with the headwinds and mountains, I didn't even know the trailer was back there.
stymey... the paper trail follows the truck! the dealer gets the invoice right after build & no way that an inventory manager with any gray stuff between the ears can "mix" an ordered truck with inventory.. I agree with Brutus. someone walked into that dealership & offered them cash at MSRP & they sold it because they're greedy SOB's. go after them with a priority 1 at below invoice as Koakey suggests. THEN I'd go after them legally if they refused to comply. I wouldn't mention "attorney" at this time because it could (but highly unlikely) be an "honest" mistake... but far more likely, it was a DIS-honest one! keep us informed, please.
jeez, Bess. any fiver that's got 3k of pin load will most certainly exceed the GCWR as well because the whole coach is going to be just plain heavy. the really large fivers can't be pulled by these trucks no matter what the config because of that 20K GCWR limit. sure, we can carry a whole bunch of weight in the bed... but it doesn't matter because the GCWR will be quickly exceeded long b4 the GVWR is reached. note that ours has 2300 pounds at the pin & we are "close" (to the GCWR). but our truck is probably a thousand pounds heavier than the lightest config in the SD line & that's why we're already near the GCWR limit. we're getting the beast tomorrow & as soon as the hitch rails & brake gets installed we're going to pull the fiver over to our local solid waste authority to get the whole schmear weighed. will report on those findings.
we took a serious look at the F450 for this very reason. but that thing is a truck, TRUCK! It also doesn't sport quite the "creature comforts" of the 250/350 line. it has that higher diff ratio (4.88) & 19.5 inch wheels. just a big [non-permissible content removed] truck. decided we didn't need it as we've no plans to upgrade the fiver (the thing is unwieldly enough as it is).
I think Ford's going to do something with the 450 though, that will make it more accomodating with the RV crowd because these fivers just seem to get bigger & bigger.
ah! we get finally get to look at our cup holder tomorrow! will implement Bess's "fix".. why reinvent the wheel?
no more VOPC? well, the system still has our vehicle on the "rails" somewhere. but prior to build that status was helpful. sincerely hope its function isn't lost.
Folks, don't beat me up on this. I looked on the accessories topics & didn't see definitive answers.
I should be getting my 00 sd cc(woodland green) sb this week. I ordered on 12/9/99 My question(2)
1. what brand of bug deflector would you folks recomend?
2. I'm needing to get steps or nerf bars(my preference). I'd prefer to get some that bolt to the frame and don't require drilling. Does such an animal exist? preferably in black.
I'm sure you have better things to do than to go through a law suit, and better things to do with your $$ than to pay a lawyer to file suit and probably never recover anything. And the courts sure have plenty of cases to handle without having one more. But please don't follow any of the silly suggestions about riding around with a banner in your truck, etc., unless you want to be sued by the dealership.
the question is "what are your damages?" sure, the dealership screwed up, maybe intentionally, maybe not; but how have you been hurt except for being really pissed off (as I would be). The law does not provide compensation for pissed-off people (otherwise there'd be a lot of money changing hands); only ones who have suffered a legally compensable harm.
You might, however, make a complaint to BBB, and maybe even to the consumer protection division at your attorney general's office (if there are enough complaints, AG's office will make dealership's life a nightmare, if dealer has a pattern and practice of doing this). But please don't haul off and file a lawsuit. Your damages, as far as I can figure, would only be the loss of use of the money you laid down as a deposit for the time you've waited, which on average would be about 10%, and on $1K, that's only $100.00 for a year, which you haven't waited.
In addition to reporting to AG's consumer division and BBB, put your anger into reasonable demands from dealership. Suggestions: (1) top priority on order; (2) guaranteed delivery in 6-7 weeks, and $100.00 a week off price for each week beyond that if it's late, or if they give it away again; (3) return of your deposit immediately--if they sold your truck, they should not hold your $$ any longer, and you can put it in a 3-month CD while waiting for the truck; (4) pick an accessory or option(s), and make dealership pay for it, which could be equal to the amount of the profit (if they will tell you) they made off of selling YOUR truck.
Pick as many as you want, but don't get greedy, cause dealer could just say "here's your deposit, Later, dude!" If you make too much of an [non-permissible content removed] out of yourself, both you and the dealer are better off with someone else. In other words, use your leverage wisely, and only make a little bit of an [non-permissible content removed] out of yourself.
Still, if you have a friend who is a lawyer there in Calif., you might ask him or her if there are any special consumer statutes relating to this type of practice by the dealership. And have them confirm what I've said above, and show them all of the paperwork on the deal. I'm a lawyer, but not in Calif.
Just don't go running into the dealership blowing smoke about a lawsuit and lawyers until you've talked to one out there, becasue unless there is a civil statute in Calif. granting you a particular remedy for this type of situation, you don't have much of one.
Also, I wouldn't have guess that your trailer had 2300 5r pin weight. That only left an additional 500 to 700 lbs Driver, passenger and gear that you put in the truckcab or bed. I can see why you thought briefly about an F450.
jjones has good sound advice. You should definatly show your disappointment, and ask for reasonable compensation from the dealer. - Re-ordered truck at dealer invoice or less.. (Remember they also have a 3% holdback they receive), Also remember they probably made ALOT of $$ on the dude they sold your truck to, so they (the dealer) should pass part of that $$ your way. - High priority on the re-order.. - Maybe go for an extended warranty at no cost to you or some accessories. - Your deposit back. The fact that your still willing to give the dealer another chance demonstrates that you honor your commitments better than they do. I didn't put any downpayment on my truck when I ordered it.. - Call the Ford customer service number (the dealer can give you the number) so you can document your dis-satisfaction. I'm sure that FoMoCo does not want dealerships that do this type of activity.
Give them a chance to try to compensate for their mistake.. Just my opinion
I'll be ordering my truck soon 2K F-350 CC XLT 4WD,V-10,5sp and misc.other options. Have sent out requests on autobytel, priceline (1 response, $1400 over invoice - what a deal),Carpoint (2 responses - $1100 over invoice and $ 2200 over invoice). Emailed Tonya (Titus-Will in Tacoma WA) and got a quick response at $ 500 over invoice. But I'd really like to find a dealer in the Sacramento CA area that can at least come close to Tonya's price. If not, I guess I'll go to Tacoma to get it. Any help is appreciated.
I also installed the Lund deflector. I especially like the way it stands away from the hood. My last protector rested on bumpers against the hood and I suffered more damage from the deflector than I would have from gravel and bugs. The Lund fits and looks great while providing excellent protection. Paid about $50 including tax and installation.
No help on the steps or bars. I have a Lariat with factory boards.
Since you have an offer in hand for $500 over invoice, go back to the other dealers and see if they'll match it. My ABT dealer did.
Also, make sure you're talking about an 'off the lot' price (excluding title, tax, license). Some dealers will add a 'dealer handling' fee that won't be reflected on the invoice and may or may not be included in their $mumble over invoice price.
The local Better Business Bureau has a web site: http://www.labbb.org/ Raceway Ford is a member and has a satisfactory record. They may want to keep it.
My advice was not to sue, but don't be hesitant to use the threat of suing as leverage. Ditto with the sign idea and the contacting BBB. The best way to resolve the issue is a cordial meeting that results in the customer saving a reasonable amount on the reorder and/or accessories and service, and also guarantees a priority delivery. The accessory $$ savings can be signficant since dealer markups on accessories are often in the 40%+ range. If a reasonably equitable deal can't be negotiated, then you have to start using the leverage of contacting the BBB, possibly suing or carrying a sign.
Regardless, the dealership owes this customer more than just a "oops, we goofed, let's try and reorder that truck again". They sold the truck to a higher paying customer for their personal gain.
As far as the legal issues, a properly worded sign that didn't lie wouldn't get anyone sued. Silly or not, I've seen signs result in quick resolutions since word of mouth is one of the best advertisers and the auto retail business is competitive. Also the downside potential in damages for the dealership goes beyond interest on a deposit, especially in todays over-litigious culture.
...Lewac..the hotel that tom18 stayed at before picking up his "little-monster" from clinton, ILL has a "reputation" in these parts for their homemade cinnamon rolls that they serve with dinner. These things are to DIE FOR!! As stated, I can get the recipe from my mom and send it to ya via email if you are interested!! ..Well, better throw something in about the truck...with hubs locked, 4--wheel drive engaged most of the time, short in town trips resulted in about 7-8 mpg on last tank....but I got where I was going!!! On another note...had a VIPER 550 ESP alarm system with remote start installed over the weekend. The remote start is GREAT!!! After being outside at work all day...just stick arm out back door of work, push buttons...truck warm in 5-minutes.
Those short trips must be killing the mpg. I've never done that low on any tank running empty and that includes 4x4 locked, winter fuel, 10 minute morning idles, and 4.30 axle ratio with duallys. My daily commute is 15 miles (one way) of 50/50 city/hwy, so the short in-town trips must be the culprit.
The truck has been playing in the snow quite a bit the past few days. Around a foot or so of new snow, much more in areas out of town. Five hwys around the state were closed yesterday at times because of avalanches. So far I've avoided the ditch diving. There was a 20 car pile-up in town yesterday that made a mess of the evening rush hour. We hit our season average snowfall yesterday as we passed through the 65 inch mark so far this winter. We get nothing compared to Valdez which averages over 20 feet per winter. My back hurts just thinking about shoveling that much snow.
I am curious what everyone's position on bedliners is? I haul hay in my truck a lot (it acts just like a Brillo pad on the paint) and have a full liner in my '93 F150. Am automatically thinking about putting one in my '00 250. Has anyone ever taken a bedliner out after a long period of time to see what the bed looks like after that much time under that much plastic? The bedliner I have now goes up and over the rails which I like, but it warps terribly in the summer in the (Maine!) heat. Thanks.
The "Maine heat," lol...well we had an under the rail liner on our last truck. Originally bought an over-the-rail and had it replaced under warranty because it warped immediately and I hated looking at it in the side mirror. The problem of warping is solved with your new truck because it will have the standard rail protectors. I'm sure you'll get several pushing for spray-in liner, I've never had one. The only thing that would make me hesitate on slip-in liner is whether or not you are hauling a goose-neck--wouldn't be good to cut a square out of it and allow hay and moisture under it. Otherwise...
I installed the lund interceptor I like the way it stands away from the hood and the windshield washer fluid still hits the window still looking for boards
I've got a line-x spray-in liner and have no complaints (www.line-x.com). My folks have a Rhino Liner spray-in liner and love. They have a 5th wheel hitch and auxilliary fuel tanks and the spray-in doesn't interfere with either.
If you want the best drop in bed liner, check out the York at www.yorkproducts.com/toc.htm That is the brand I bought over a year ago and it has held up great. I have hauled several auto engines with no damage. In contrast, my old 97 F150 with the genuine Ford bed liner, got chewed up bad every time I hauled an engine in it. The York also has provisions for retaining your load by putting cross boards in the bed in about 3 inch increments. Things may have changes since I bought my bed liner over a year ago, but back then, nobody had an over the rail style for the Super Duties. I guess because they have a factory protector on the top of the bed. If you will have a 5th wheel hookup in the bed, you would probably be better off with a spray in. A spray in is only as good as the place that sprays it in. Regardless of brand, get references from satisfied customers, or check out some of their finished products going out the door. Make sure they do good work. If you keep your truck more than about five years, you will find that your spay in liner resembles worn out velvet. Very crappy looking, in my opinion.
Had my 2K SD Rhinoed in November. Can't say how it will be in 5 years, but it's great looking now!! I think it's better looking than any drop-in I've ever seen, and I think I looked at them all when I was shopping!
I had Line-x on my old pickup for years and have it on my new Super Duty. I have hauled rock, sand, dirt, etc. and can't beat it to death. I've jabbed shovels and spaids into it and can't destruct it. The surface will turn to a duller appearance over time if you use it to its max. I believe the Line-X folks can touch it up if you're worried about that. If you want a show truck then don't put anything into it including a liner. If you are going to use the bed, then I'd recommend the durability and certainty of the Line-X. Another good thing about it is that it has a rough, rubbery finish so things don't slide around in the bed. You will also get more for your pickup at resale time. Happy Motoring!
You might check to see if has public parking in front, I had a friend who had a dispute over a dealer lying to him about what they would give him for his trade in. Well he made a big sign saying not to trust that dealer ship put it in his truck and parked right in front of the dealer ship. Needless to say they we not happy, when he refused to leave the called the cops. Once they got there they said there was nothing they could do, he was parked in a public parking area. He sat there for about eight hours but they finally agreed to the original deal. The thing to remember is they can't sue you for your sign as long as it's truthful, it's called freedom of speech. John
It has been a long time since I was on, lots of stuff to catch up on. MC I have had a spray-in liner in my trucks for the last four years and I can say I still like them better than slide in's. The only gouge I had was from the draggin the forks of a fork lift. The spray-in's never rattle and thump going down the highway. Never move around when the temp changes. I know I will have upset the folks who like slide-in's but we all have our own opinions and uses.
Thanks to all who helped with the mirror swapping questions. The 2000 manual TT mirrors do just bolt right up to a 99 with Manual TT mirrors.
WYO is a chilly 57 today, man I hate these cold cold winters. Have Fun
I agree with wildside1 on the Line-X bedliner. I've always had drop-ins in my other trucks and experienced rust unless I also had a topper. The drop-ins are also slippery and my four-wheeler would shift in transit. The Line-X looks good after one month, and the four-wheeler stays put. Line-X is guaranteed for as long as you own the truck. If it is gouged or otherwise damaged it can easily be repaired as good as new.
The dealer told me to make sure that all soap was rinsed out after washing. Soap will dull the finish quickly.
Man, you guys post like its going out of style!!! I don't check in for two weeks and there are 346 new posts. Anyway, I don't know if someone has already announced this but when I last was reading your posts (and I don't wanna go through 350 posts to find out if someone has already said this) there were some of you who were frustrated with not knowing where your truck is... This may help in the future...
Ford is hiring UPS to track vehicles in transit from factories to dealers By Fara Warner and Rick Brooks THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
DETROIT, Feb. 2 - Ford Motor Co. is expected to announce Wednesday that it is tapping United Parcel Service Inc. to track millions of vehicles as they make their way from factories to dealerships in hopes of alleviating longtime distribution problems.
Comments
http://ford-diesel.com/faq/1999faq/General-OrderDuring.htm
If you like off road and touring this is pretty cool.
now that we're about to become a part of the "have" group I can take more of an interest in the discussion here that concerns others. toward the end there, we were actually beginning to doubt if we'd ever see the truck we ordered (due to the incredibly long delay AFTER the build).
a lot has been mentioned in regard to the vopc process. note that this system became extremely unreliable for us AFTER our build. the truck simply got "lost" (and it still does not indicate any change in status). the update at the center obviously does not take place that often, often lagging the REAL status by as much as a week or more. we didn't check it before the build more often than this as it really wasn't necessary. but once it is built, you need to be "on" the dealer. if more than two WEEKS goes by without a "at-the-ramp" message after your build something is WRONG and there is no doubt at all about that at all. your dealer gets a much more up to date status report from the vopc... daily, in fact, so ask them what's the latest.
we'll report back here after the pickup is "picked up". our config is the psd 6 speed manual which will interest ones with either of those configs (well, you can't get the 6 speed with gassers, anyway).
tracy0... are you the one up in those mountains of Colorado (too lazy to go back & check)? we're interested in the usGear exhaust brake (the one with the bypass valve). we're going to need some type of diesel brake & any thoughts would surely be welcomed. someone also makes some kind of turbo brake but this is the first diesel I've owned so the darkness creeps in around the edges.
When installed, they actually cut out the dark colored "bars" and replace the void with the billett grille so "NO RETURN" !!!
GO LEWAC !!! It's about time !! You are definitely going to enjoy!!!!
No we have not had our rig out to the rocky mountains yet, we sure plan on vacationing out there in the future though. We go to the smokies often but have not been since we got big blue. I have not got a exhaust brake, have tought about it but the manual says not to. It could void warranty. Any further advise on this from others?
One nagging question about the 531/532 Trailer Towing Package/Camper Package. I'm gonna tow a 10,000lb GVWR 5er and I'm wondering if I need both the packages or just the Trailer Towing Package? Looks like the Camper package adds some heavier springs and a rear stabilizer bar.
Looking forward to many sleepless nights waiting for delivery!
Thanks
Thanks
Mainecowgirl: You ordered the Lariat Package which comes with a chrome trim grille and gray/black bars in the center -- honeycomb openings to each side of the center.
What happens is they take your grille off, cut out the center and two honeycomb side portions creating a chrome trim piece with three "holes" in it. Now take the billet grille and insert it behind the trim piece and re-install the "total" grille. The "look" that you see where the holes were is a bunch of (24) horizontal chrome bars (stainless steel from what I have been told) 1/8" thick with a 3/8" gap in between each bar with the blue FORD logo in the middle. LOTS of chrome - which really looks impressive as far as I'm concerned. Hope this helps.
ke3qz... you should be okay with what you're ordering. no, you won't have quite the lateral stability that a dually provides so it may be a benefit to go with both of those packages on the F250 (I would). remember: the COMBINED weight fully loaded (people, gas, truck, fiver... everything... cannot exceed 20K. btw.. the limitation is brakes. so if you're in fairly flat terrain even exceeding that gross slightly shouldn't be a problem... but be careful if you're at or over the GCWR as handling goes to hell exponentially when you exceed the recommended ratings. load that fiver HEAVY up front will help with stability as well. hope this helps.
tom18... good to hear from you again. and glad to hear that you're happy with your truck (and your dealer... had a hell of time finding them, I remember... and did you ever get a copy of the DORA out of them?). that was a pretty quick delivery too, so as your deal turned out, you made an excellent choice.
tracyo... I'm wondering if the reason they don't recommend a diesel brake is that we don't really need it as long as the GCWR isn't exceeded. We do have the trailer brakes and 4 wheel disks (that can dissipate heat a lot faster than the 'ole "drummers"). So need to delve into this a little more. anyone have thoughts?
I would never recommend that one exceed the GCWR for both saftey and legal reasons, in any terrain.
stymey DON'T LET THEM GET AWAY WITH IT!! either take them to court on it for breach of contract or possibly make them take it back from the people they sold it to after all they sold your truck and it really didn't belong to them! If you have any proof of your down payment go after those [non-permissible content removed] holes!!!
Sorry for the language but this type of thing pisses me off!!
John
Does this forgive what they did, no. But, stymey, what do *you* want from them? Do you really want that truck back after someone else has driven it? I don't know that the dealership can get the truck back at this point.
If this happens to me (and my husband asked me what I'd do if this happened to me after relating a similar story to him from ford-diesel.com)). I'd be looking at priority 1 (which the dealer has to go to the regional rep to get) and price break (I'd be looking at *below* invoice on this). It's time to make the dealer start eating holdback profit (I'd be real curious what they sold your truck for
Yes, I'd have a fit and make sure the dealership knew I wasn't happy (sounds like the fleet guy already isn't). Then I'd find out what the dealership will do to make ammends and, if I wasn't happy with their last offer, then I'd be talking to an attorney.
No, I don't know Raceway Ford but mistakes happen and I'd like their response before a knee-jerk reaction makes things worse.
Anyway, the ESOF is the cats meow. I was able to quickly change from 2x4 to 4x4 and back. I had to go back and forth to compensate for places where the snow had melted, then I would hit a street or road that was all snow and ice. It was quick and positive everytime. There is a world of difference in traction between 2x4 with LS and 4x4 with LS.
Also, really put the 4 wheel disk/antilock brakes thu the test on snow, on ice, and on slush. Ford perfected the design on brakes as far as I am concerned .... I was able to guide the Super Duty with the brake pedal mashed .... WOW! For any of you folks that are still thinking about ordering a Super Duty, be sure to get the 4 wheel ABS and 4 wheel disks. They come standard on the Lariat but not sure about the other models .... anyway if you don't get any other options, be sure to get that.
Happy motoring!
Taking a chance that Burlington Northern is the actual rail shipper, I went onto their web page, and entered the last eight digits of the VIN number into the "BNSF Custom Equipment Trace Input" page, and my truck is on it's way!
Last status is that the truck arrived in Naperville, IL at 2:30 in the afternoon on 1/29. Hopefully, I'll get an update soon that the truck is headed out west.
lewac, I'll be really upset I see the truck on the way to Michigan :-)
Won't be much longer now!
Tom18...glad all worked out well with Anderson Ford in Clinton!! That drive to Mil. is not to bad...we go by there every time we visit here family up in Minn. We usually stop at Tomah to take a breather. Jumers is one of the nicer hotels we have in this area. Actually, there are about 5-within a 2-hour radius of Bloomington-Normal, each one has a different theme. The cinnamon rolls are to DIE for there and I DO HAVE the recipe if you are interested in making them yourself. Just shoot me an email and I will send it to ya back!!!
It sounds like Ford mentioned attorneys and I know that Jason doesn't have the resources to fight something like that.
On his behalf (since I know many of us have pointed you in ford-diesel.com's web page), please stop using VOPC.
Jason's post at ford-diesel.
http://www.ford-diesel.com/ubb/Forum6/HTML/000315.html
The lowest mpg I got pulling that U-haul was climbing into some very strong head winds. On one tank, I got 6.8. That is my lowest mpg ever and I have never come close to it again. I get better straight city mpg with my 4,000+ slide-in camper in the bed than I got on that one tank. Headwinds make a big difference. Although the 4.30s cost me some mpg, they provide plenty of umph under any conditions. Even with the headwinds and mountains, I didn't even know the trailer was back there.
jeez, Bess. any fiver that's got 3k of pin load will most certainly exceed the GCWR as well because the whole coach is going to be just plain heavy. the really large fivers can't be pulled by these trucks no matter what the config because of that 20K GCWR limit. sure, we can carry a whole bunch of weight in the bed... but it doesn't matter because the GCWR will be quickly exceeded long b4 the GVWR is reached. note that ours has 2300 pounds at the pin & we are "close" (to the GCWR). but our truck is probably a thousand pounds heavier than the lightest config in the SD line & that's why we're already near the GCWR limit. we're getting the beast tomorrow & as soon as the hitch rails & brake gets installed we're going to pull the fiver over to our local solid waste authority to get the whole schmear weighed. will report on those findings.
we took a serious look at the F450 for this very reason. but that thing is a truck, TRUCK! It also doesn't sport quite the "creature comforts" of the 250/350 line. it has that higher diff ratio (4.88) & 19.5 inch wheels. just a big [non-permissible content removed] truck. decided we didn't need it as we've no plans to upgrade the fiver (the thing is unwieldly enough as it is).
I think Ford's going to do something with the 450 though, that will make it more accomodating with the RV crowd because these fivers just seem to get bigger & bigger.
ah! we get finally get to look at our cup holder tomorrow! will implement Bess's "fix".. why reinvent the wheel?
no more VOPC? well, the system still has our vehicle on the "rails" somewhere. but prior to build that status was helpful. sincerely hope its function isn't lost.
not going to sleep very much tonight, I suppose.
I should be getting my 00 sd cc(woodland green) sb this week. I ordered on 12/9/99 My question(2)
1. what brand of bug deflector would you folks recomend?
2. I'm needing to get steps or nerf bars(my preference). I'd prefer to get some that bolt to the frame and don't require drilling. Does such an animal exist? preferably in black.
Thanx,
David
2.
the question is "what are your damages?" sure, the dealership screwed up, maybe intentionally, maybe not; but how have you been hurt except for being really pissed off (as I would be). The law does not provide compensation for pissed-off people (otherwise there'd be a lot of money changing hands); only ones who have suffered a legally compensable harm.
You might, however, make a complaint to BBB, and maybe even to the consumer protection division at your attorney general's office (if there are enough complaints, AG's office will make dealership's life a nightmare, if dealer has a pattern and practice of doing this). But please don't haul off and file a lawsuit. Your damages, as far as I can figure, would only be the loss of use of the money you laid down as a deposit for the time you've waited, which on average would be about 10%, and on $1K, that's only $100.00 for a year, which you haven't waited.
In addition to reporting to AG's consumer division and BBB, put your anger into reasonable demands from dealership. Suggestions: (1) top priority on order; (2) guaranteed delivery in 6-7 weeks, and $100.00 a week off price for each week beyond that if it's late, or if they give it away again; (3) return of your deposit immediately--if they sold your truck, they should not hold your $$ any longer, and you can put it in a 3-month CD while waiting for the truck; (4) pick an accessory or option(s), and make dealership pay for it, which could be equal to the amount of the profit (if they will tell you) they made off of selling YOUR truck.
Pick as many as you want, but don't get greedy, cause dealer could just say "here's your deposit, Later, dude!" If you make too much of an [non-permissible content removed] out of yourself, both you and the dealer are better off with someone else. In other words, use your leverage wisely, and only make a little bit of an [non-permissible content removed] out of yourself.
Still, if you have a friend who is a lawyer there in Calif., you might ask him or her if there are any special consumer statutes relating to this type of practice by the dealership. And have them confirm what I've said above, and show them all of the paperwork on the deal. I'm a lawyer, but not in Calif.
Just don't go running into the dealership blowing smoke about a lawsuit and lawyers until you've talked to one out there, becasue unless there is a civil statute in Calif. granting you a particular remedy for this type of situation, you don't have much of one.
There's another discussion on ford-diesel.com where someone else has come to the same conclusion..
http://www.ford-diesel.com/ubb/Forum19/HTML/000289.html
Also, I wouldn't have guess that your trailer had 2300 5r pin weight. That only left an additional 500 to 700 lbs Driver, passenger and gear that you put in the truckcab or bed. I can see why you thought briefly about an F450.
- Re-ordered truck at dealer invoice or less.. (Remember they also have a 3% holdback they receive), Also remember they probably made ALOT of $$ on the dude they sold your truck to, so they (the dealer) should pass part of that $$ your way.
- High priority on the re-order..
- Maybe go for an extended warranty at no cost to you or some accessories.
- Your deposit back. The fact that your still willing to give the dealer another chance demonstrates that you honor your commitments better than they do. I didn't put any downpayment on my truck when I ordered it..
- Call the Ford customer service number (the dealer can give you the number) so you can document your dis-satisfaction. I'm sure that FoMoCo does not want dealerships that do this type of activity.
Give them a chance to try to compensate for their mistake..
Just my opinion
No help on the steps or bars. I have a Lariat with factory boards.
Also, make sure you're talking about an 'off the lot' price (excluding title, tax, license). Some dealers will add a 'dealer handling' fee that won't be reflected on the invoice and may or may not be included in their $mumble over invoice price.
Raceway Ford is a member and has a satisfactory record. They may want to keep it.
Regardless, the dealership owes this customer more than just a "oops, we goofed, let's try and reorder that truck again". They sold the truck to a higher paying customer for their personal gain.
As far as the legal issues, a properly worded sign that didn't lie wouldn't get anyone sued. Silly or not, I've seen signs result in quick resolutions since word of mouth is one of the best advertisers and the auto retail business is competitive. Also the downside potential in damages for the dealership goes beyond interest on a deposit, especially in todays over-litigious culture.
..Well, better throw something in about the truck...with hubs locked, 4--wheel drive engaged most of the time, short in town trips resulted in about 7-8 mpg on last tank....but I got where I was going!!!
On another note...had a VIPER 550 ESP alarm system with remote start installed over the weekend. The remote start is GREAT!!! After being outside at work all day...just stick arm out back door of work, push buttons...truck warm in 5-minutes.
The truck has been playing in the snow quite a bit the past few days. Around a foot or so of new snow, much more in areas out of town. Five hwys around the state were closed yesterday at times because of avalanches. So far I've avoided the ditch diving. There was a 20 car pile-up in town yesterday that made a mess of the evening rush hour. We hit our season average snowfall yesterday as we passed through the 65 inch mark so far this winter. We get nothing compared to Valdez which averages over 20 feet per winter. My back hurts just thinking about shoveling that much snow.
I like the way it stands away from the hood
and the windshield washer fluid still hits the
window
still looking for boards
That is the brand I bought over a year ago and it has held up great. I have hauled several auto engines with no damage. In contrast, my old 97 F150 with the genuine Ford bed liner, got chewed up bad every time I hauled an engine in it.
The York also has provisions for retaining your load by putting cross boards in the bed in about 3 inch increments.
Things may have changes since I bought my bed liner over a year ago, but back then, nobody had an over the rail style for the Super Duties. I guess because they have a factory protector on the top of the bed.
If you will have a 5th wheel hookup in the bed, you would probably be better off with a spray in. A spray in is only as good as the place that sprays it in. Regardless of brand, get references from satisfied customers, or check out some of their finished products going out the door. Make sure they do good work. If you keep your truck more than about five years, you will find that your spay in liner resembles worn out velvet. Very crappy looking, in my opinion.
Happy Motoring!
He sat there for about eight hours but they finally agreed to the original deal.
The thing to remember is they can't sue you for your sign as long as it's truthful, it's called freedom of speech.
John
MC I have had a spray-in liner in my trucks for the last four years and I can say I still like them better than slide in's. The only gouge I had was from the draggin the forks of a fork lift.
The spray-in's never rattle and thump going down the highway. Never move around when the temp changes.
I know I will have upset the folks who like slide-in's but we all have our own opinions and uses.
Thanks to all who helped with the mirror swapping questions. The 2000 manual TT mirrors do just bolt right up to a 99 with Manual TT mirrors.
WYO is a chilly 57 today, man I hate these cold cold winters.
Have Fun
The dealer told me to make sure that all soap was rinsed out after washing. Soap will dull the finish quickly.
Ford is hiring UPS to track vehicles in transit from factories to dealers
By Fara Warner and Rick Brooks
THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
DETROIT, Feb. 2 - Ford Motor Co. is expected to announce Wednesday that it is tapping United Parcel Service Inc. to track millions of vehicles as they make their way from factories to dealerships in hopes of alleviating longtime distribution problems.
Maybe they are watching these sites...