FORD F-150 SUPERCAB BUYERS - II

obyone

I had a '00 F150 supercab 2wd XLT 4.6 as a rental for one week. I must admit that when driving over the new H-3 to Kaneohe, the truck's pedal was almost to the metal most of the time to keep it at 65 mph. This was with no load. I have no experience with the 5.4 so I can't pass judgement but I do know that I wouldn't want to drive this way every day of the week with the 4.6l. My $.04.

timothyadavis

I didn't think the H-3 was all that steep of a grade. My 4.6L isn't quite that anemic and has handled the one really steep, long upgrade in 350 miles of driving across West Texas with aplomb and at 75 mph. So, I think the rental company must have done something to limit the speed on the one you got or else something was terribly wrong with that truck. I'm sure that a properly functioning 4.6L would more than handle even the steeper Like Like or Pali grades without effort.

My comments were simple to indicate that the additional starting up "grunt" of the 5.4L would undoubtedly almost totally offset the slight drop in gas mileage and even more so for someone who will be hauling or towing much.

kit1404

Since Ford seems to have finally worked out the bugs on the 5.4 - why not just go with a little bigger engine. We're not talking a lot bigger here - basically the difference in the old 302 V-8 and the 351-V-8. I have a 1999 F-150 with 5.4 and it has as much really good power where I need it that I am ever likely to ever dream of needing with this half-ton truck. Plus, I get what I consider a very reasonable 15-17 mpg all the time. (I drive in New Mexico, usually about 80 mph plus a fair amount of 4WD needed too - this truck has been very good so far, it has 21,000 mile on it so far.)

johnada

I purchased a 2001 F-150 XLT Supercab 4x4 last month. A couple of days ago I put the truck in 4H and heard a grinding sound when making 90 degree turns at slow speeds (5 - 10 mph). The sound seems to be coming from low in the vehicle, around the transfer case. Has anyone else
experienced this?

jrc346

I believe that your F150 has a part time transfre case and when in 4x4 high or low should not be turned either direction all the way unless on sand, mud, snow or ice. Im part time transfer cases there isnt a 3rd differential that is used to varry both of the front wheels speeds so it will make this noise. I went to the dealer with my Explorer thinking i also had a problem but he explained it to me and have scince then had other people tell me the same thing. This also happened with my Expedetion (both the explorer and expedition have full time systems). I havent had any problems with either. Hope you enjoy your new truck! You shouldn't have anything to worry about:-)

hamilajo

I have a horse and am considering buying truck and 1-2 horse trailer. Although I will be towing occasionally, I'll just be commuting to work and parking the vehicle most of the time. I've talked to people who tell me I need a 3/4 ton pickup; that I'll wear out the engine on most half tons if I tow too much. My trailer should weigh no more than 2500 and two horses at most would bring the total up to about 5000 lbs, which seems well within the limit of what the F150 can pull. Let's say I'd tow just 50 miles per week. I've never owned a truck so I'm a real novice. Any advice? Suggestions on engine, rear axle? Thanks.

shawn106

Does anybody have a 2001 f-150 with the factory sunroof option? If so,do you still get the overhead console? How do you like it? Shawn

fishnwiz

I have a problem I just discovered this morning. I just recently purchased a used 99 supercab with the 5.4 engine option. This morning I found oil leaking from the inspection cover of this engine. Looks to me to be a rear main seal leak??? Truck is under warranty with 19K on it! Anyone else have this problem? While I have done a little towing with this truck since I bought it with 16.5K on it...I am VERY sad to see this problem develope with this newer truck! This is my first 4 wheel drive Ford and am worried I made the wrong choice! Thanks for your help in this matter! Fishnwiz

glenc1

If I remember correctly, there was a series of 5.4's manufactured in late 99 that had leaky heads. Apparently, Ford wanted to save some money and eliminated the step of "cleaning" the surface between the head and block. In our fleet, I have had 2 engines with the leaks and Ford has replaced them both. This is not a serious problem (yet) but your dealer should be able to make the repairs with no problem. Most of our 75 vehicles have the 5.4 and up until this, there have been absolutely NO problems with any of them. Even if it is the rear seal, warranty will cover it. Good Luck & don't worry-this is still any excellant engine.

fishnwiz

Glenc1...Thanks for your vote of confidence in this motor. This is my 1st v8 in the ford line after 20 years running the 300 4.9 6. I did some further checking on the F150 site and you are correct...The leak is in the heads, not a rear seal after all. I hope that Ford will replace this engine for me, though I am a little concerned with a total switch as far as the quality of the mechanic doing the work goes. I guess I will find out tommorow morning weather the dealerships in my area will go for a NEW engine in my 99 F150! Thanks again for the info! Mark

pinetted

Are any of you using a rear facing baby seats in your trucks?

timothyadavis

We will be in mid-March! The forward facing one for our 2 year old is working fine in the middle of the back seat in our 1999 F-150 Supercab. We have been planning on putting the rear-facing seat in the middle and then to move our boy to the right side. My wife is considerably shorter than I am and so she can slide her 60% of the bench seat forward farther. Besides, she'll probably sit in back behind me to be with the baby, at least in the first couple of months.

Now that you bring it up though, I guess I'd better dig out the rear-facing seat and do the shuffle now so that we know it will work out. I'd hate to have to use the front passenger seat and turn off the air bag. Maybe I'll get the energy to do the trial fit this weekend? Next weekend? Soon after Christmas? The week before the baby is due? At the last minute when the baby comes early? ;-)



PS Several "spell checker illiteracy" examples made me scribble the prior version of this, fix it and repost (I hope, error free!).

pinetted

Timothyadavis, thanks for the reply, we are going to be replacing our Ranger in a year or so and are looking at the Sport Tracs. Originally we were looking at the F150's but they seemed a little cramped in the back for two child seats. I still think we would get a better deal on a used F150, there are not a lot of used Sport Tracs out there. Mybe once we get the new truck I can sell our 4 door car and buy another Mustang!

timothyadavis

The front-to-back room in the rear seat of the F-150 Supercab is the only concern with 2 or even 3 car seats back there, I think. The width is as much as you can hope for; there is more than enough width to fit the 2 car seats and leave an outboard seat for my wife to use when she desires. And, once again, it is actually handy to have my son within reach from the front bench (handing milk, cookies, etc. back and wiping the occasional runny nose....).

In fact, I think you would find significantly less width in the Sport Trac. I would be very surprised if anyone could sit comfortably on the same row with 2 car seats in any Explorer.

Good luck and safe driving, whatever you decide.

tbarron03

I am interested in buying the super crew but i want to know the bottom dollar i could possibly get one for (xlt standard equipment)!Are the dealers very flexible with the negotiating. We have test drove a couple and we like them and we are wondering what a good low price we could get one for. We live in the southern indiana area.Any input would be greatly appreciated!!!!Thank you.

tallman

Read through topic 982 in this town hall. I have one that was built this week and to be delivered the week of 12-25. Just happened to meet the fleet dealer on the lot one day. Next thing I know he is ordering one for me WITH NO COMMTIMENT on my part for $1100 dollars over invoice. Know you stuff when you go and you will do fine.

rm13

I think most people are getting S-crews and other ford trucks for invoice or within $200-$300 of it. Check the car buying sites (like autonation or autonation direct?)and look at the distance to the dealers. You can probably figure out which dealers participate near you. Call them and ask.
I called the participating dealer near me (central VA) and paid $259 over invoice including all fees. I've seen where other posters have done better.

maryel

I am working on a deal locally to purchase a new 2000 4x4 s/c Lariat with the 5.4L. After reading here about some of the problems with 5.4 should I keep looking for a truck with the smaller V8? I am also looking at the same truck in the Supercrew 2001. I hate to pass up the deal on the 2000, but I don't want to buy something with piston slap or head to block leaks either. Was this problem cleared up in the 2001 models with the 5.4?
Matt

tbarron03

i am cosidering buying a screw(4x4 xlt with captains chairs, two tone paint,running boards,5.4 linter engine) and i was wondering what it would be worth in 3yrs and in 5yrs if i took very good care of it and if it had lowwwwww miles on it?any replys would be greatly apreciated!!!!

spongebob28

I looking at a 1997 F-150 XL 2WD Extended Cab Long Bed. I can probably get the dealer down to $10k or less. Here's the catch - it has 86k miles on it. Allegedly it's a one owner vehicle. I just need a truck for dirty work and some around town stuff. What do you think?
Thanks for any input. By the way this would be my first F-150.

kenlea

I have an 1999 F150 with the 5.4L that is leaking oil from the head gasket. The truck has 44,400 miles on it and is out of warranty. I have read a message or two about this being a known problem with the 5.4L engine. My dealer is no help at all. If you have any ideas or suggestions pleas let me know.

footballfan777

azauto, I own a 97 F-150 with the V-6. This truck was purchased for my wife, and at the time I decided the V-6 would be great...better gas mileage and such. As it turned out, she didn't like driving it, and we swapped vehicles. Although I love the truck, it was a HUGE mistake not to get the V-8. The truck is underpowered, and I only get about 13 MPG. Meanwhile I have a friend with the same truck (cept he got the V-8), who is getting 18 MPG. You do the math. It won't take long to make up the $800 clams or so they charge for the bigger engine. Although the specs only show a 10HP difference between the 6 and the small 8, the 8 makes it's HP at a lower RPM. Take my advice...buy the V-8!!!

davesnothere

Couple of things....

Diagnosing the problem yourself or via internet is probably only going to add to your anxiety. These are very tough, very reliable engines, and Ford backs its warranties (if you do not get satisfaction from dealer go immediately to Ford Regional office). Do not worry too much. Ford makes excellent, excellent engines that will last forever with proper care and they are a good company. Some of the dealers are pretty weird but the company itself is truly dedicated to customer satisfaction and long term relationships from what I can see.

If you have not done this already, if the engine surfaces are not clean, clean them thoroughly, then drive the truck for a while to trace the exact source of the leak. Obviously you need to check your oil frequently but do it cold. It is still possible that the leak is in the main seal. Look at the junction between the engine and transmission.
Main seals will blow early if the engine is overfilled with oil. I have 2 Volvos which are prone to this problem, and the problem is cured by running the engine 1/2 quart LOW all the time. The engine will be fine running 1/2 quart low but this prevents excess pressure buildup in the engine.

A clogged emission system can also cause excessive internal pressure in the engine and blow the seal.

Internal engine pressure can be checked by a mechanic with a proper diagnostic tool.

The other problem, which happened on my F150 at the same time, and ths was the 3rd Ford V8 I had that did this, was that the valve cover gaskets were not seated properly so a lot of oil urped out the back of the valve covers and looked exactly like a rear main seal OR head leak because it traced down the back of the engine, following the little grooves between the head and block then down the bell housing. I replaced them with a higher quality aftermarket gasket and the problem was cured.

redkona

I want to buy a new full size truck. It would have to have be a 4x4 and have either 4 doors or the extended cab. I really don't plan on pulling anything to big with it so either a small v8 or v6 will do just fine(I hope). Not owning a full size truck before I don't know which one to pick. Can anyone either give me suggestions, advice, or pros and cons of different models.

richardh45

Serious, serious mistake if you get the V-6. It would only be suitable for off road and speeds not to exceed 45. At least get the 4.6 V-8. You will be much happier. If you are considering towing a medium or heavy load at freeway speeds, get the 5.4 V-8. Remember, you will have to move the truck and the trailer.

Four doors will have more knee room for your back seat occupants than the SuperCab. You will give up one foot of bed length (from 6.5 down to 5.5 feet), but it will be worth it.

If the extra short bed bothers you, look at the F-250 CrewCab with the short bed (6.5 feet). You can get that with the 5.4 V-8.

Some day, Ford might make a F-250 SuperCrew. That would make my millenium!

Good luck,
Richard H

pocahontas

If you're having problems with your F-150, or have advise for those with problems, please visit our F-150 Problems discussion.

Thanks for your participation. ;-)

Pocahontas
Host
Pickups Message Board

rm13

If you go Supercrew and 4WD, I'd strongly recommend the bigger V8 (5.4 liter). I have the 4.6 2WD and when loaded (with people and luggage,nothing heavy) I can feel it workin' on the hills. I don't think smaller engines will give any improvement in gas mileage as they seem to have to work harder.

russjw

Does anyone happen to know the approx t. of an F150 4x4 super cab with the 5.4L motor and off road road pkg. I'm thinking about towing it behind a motor home. Thank You...Russ

russjw

I meant to type "weight" of the F150 4x4..Thanks

ztrucker

I bought a 1999 F-150 Super cab XLT, 2WD, auto, V8, 4 wheel ABS disc brakes, with 3.55 limited slip axle a few weeks ago. The truck had 16k miles on it. Ever since the first day I got it, I have noticed quite a weird thing happening. Every time I come to a complete stop there is a jerk or kick of some kind, almost like a slip. This does not happen during 'California' (rolling) stops - only at stop lights/ signs, etc., when I have to come to a 'complete' stop. This has occurred in both dry and rainy conditions. Has anyone felt this? It is definitely something one would notice.

HELP! Thanks in advance!

rgood1

I am considering buying a 2001 ford super crew but don't know if I need a 150 or 250. I plan to plow snow from 3 parking lots on a regular basis, but I still want a nice riding truck for the other 360 days of the year when I am not plowing snow. Any suggestions?

scottdog

I hear a lot of people making reference to gas mileage on the 5.4 engine in the 2001 F150 SuperCrew but nothing real specific. I am tempted to buy one but am scared of mileage stories I have heard. I live in Mississippi and most of my miles will be on the hwy at 55-65 mph with mostly flat to rolling terrain. What can I expect??? This one question will make the difference in whether i buy or not so i would appreciate anyone's experience.

truckdude

russjw - F150 4x4 SC is around 5000lbs empty, quite a load to tow behind a motorhome

rgood1 - definitely a 250 or 350 for snow plowing, I believe you would prematurely wear out the IFS on the 150

scottdog - 4x4 or 2wd? 5.4 w/ 4x4 should be 15-17 if all hwy, would drop to probably 13-14 w/ city driving...2wd probably only 1 or 2 mpg better, BUT, I would not expect any better mileage numbers from the 4.6.

scottdog

Thanks for the input Truck Dude. I was talking 4x4. I really need the 17 mpg given my commute. I have spoken to one person who said he got 19 mpg on his first couple of tanks but most everyone else is saying 15 or so. Would it improve my mileage if I got the 16" wheels instead of 17"?

max923

I just bought a new F150 supercab and the 5.4L motor. I hear about the break-in period. Is there a correct way to break in the motor? or is it to just drive at different speeds. What does different speeds mean, 35 45 or 60 70 90? What'll happen if i get out and drive it at 70 mph for the first 1000 miles? Is there anything wrong with wanting to take it on a trip very soon? please clarify for me. Thanx

truckdude

scottdog: from my experience with other F150 owners, wheel size does not impact mileage...if anything, going to a shorter wheel/tire will result in less MPG due to effectively increasing the drive ratio resulting at higher RPMs at a given speed than the taller tire.

My 99 F150 SC 4x4 5.4 has a 3.73 rear and I always get 14-16, mixed driving, 80 mph on Interstate. I don't baby it and I live in Denver (5200ft). You might see 17 consistantly at sea level with 3.55 gears and mostly hwy driving at lower speeds (55-70). Keep in mind that 1 or 2 mpg doesn't really mean that much if you're driving the vehicle you really enjoy...

truckdude

I have always had good luck varying speeds for the first 1000 miles, not going over 60, and not being too "easy" on it. It's good to accelerate quickly up to 60, then let off and let the vacuum created pull the oil past the rings to help them seat properly. Running it at the same speed for prolonged time will increase the breakin period...

newtrucks

I test drove the '01 F250 XLT SuperCab 4x4 5.4, it rides hard (w/3.73) but has the muscle, (I have a boat, about 7k lbs total rig). On the other hand, the F150 XLT SuperCab 4x4, 3.55, 5.4 should ride softer (haven't tested it, comments?), but maybe I sacrifice towing? Any pros out there can help point the way?

scottdog

Truckdude: Thanks for the detailed input!! I have pretty much made up my mind to make an offer today. It just scares me when I see some people saying they only get 12-14 mpg. NO WAY I CAN DEAL WITH THAT. I can live with 16-17.

Newtrucks: I have driven both chevy & ford and my consensus is the ford is far superior in almost every way. Anyone who says the seats & ride aren't awesome on the F150 4x4 Supercrew have a right to their opinion but for the life of me i can't understand how they could come to that conclusion. Bottom line, I could buy a chevy with an employee discount and am still opting for the Ford. Hope this helps you with your decision.

truckdude

7k lb boat? definitely a job for a SuperDuty...I don't think an F150 w/ 3.55 gears is capable of towing that amount, that's a damn big boat. I have driven the F250 and am considering buying one, but I agree the ride is pretty harsh, at least with the PSD. I haven't driven with the 5.4 or 6.8 V10, maybe their fronts are a little softer? My F150 drives really nice, not soft like a car but comfortable...the F250 rides like trucks are supposed to.

rm13

I'm about 99.99% sure that Ford does NOT recommend snow plowing with Supercrew. It's great for those other 360 days, but if your committed to plowing (especially parking lots), you better get 250/2500 truck or better.

mikep9

Has anyone participated in the Ford I Plan which entitles corporations and employees thereof a special rate above manufacturers invoice? I recently joined this plan and received a pin number which entitles me to special saving with no hassles and all the incentives and rebates. I'm really curious how effective the saving really are.

tdehner

There is a new style slip yoke for the rear drive shaft that will solve your concern. I am a Ford Auto Technician. Glad to help and Keep driving Fords!

paddymac

I am thinking about purchasing a 1998 Ford 150 4X4, 4.7 V8 from private seller. Owner claims that 46,000 miles are mostly highway and that he self serviced(oil changes,etc.)the truck himself every 3000 miles. Asking price is $17000. Truck looks great in and out. Does this deal seem worthy? Also,what is typical mpg on this type of vehicle? Any advice is appreciated.

truckdude

I think you mean 4.6 V8. Is it an auto or manual tranny? If auto, and everything (4x4) is in working order and looks well maintained, 17k is a good price. Expect 14mpg city, 17 hwy. I would look into purchasing an extended warranty to 100k miles - after having my 5.4 replaced after only 18k miles I will never own anything this expensive without the warranty...you could be out a quick $4k at a moments notice...

proshop153

Looking at an XLT S-CREW. Everyone says I have to get the 4WD, but I can't justify the expense. Never had a 4WD anything before. Don't plan on towing anything. Live in PA where we get 2-3 snowstorms a year. Making it through them ok with my VW right now. OPINIONS GREATLY APPRECIATED. (BTW --> XLT, 4.6L, 17" tires, ltd slip diff, 6 cd radio, sliding window, side steps ---> $24.9K sound right ??)

paddymac

Thanks to truck dude for information. Truck is 4x4 auto transmission. What is typical cost of extended warranty up to 100000 miles? Source of such a warranty?

jwdavid

Has any one had a problem with what sounds like
a tire roar at speeds between 50 and 60. I have taken the vehicle back to the dealer several times. They even replaced the tires but the noise will not go away. The tires are the BF Goodrich Long Trail Ta's, P275-60-17. I have driven other Trucks with the same tires and the ride is as quiet as you would expect.

twistedf8

proshop153, I'm guessing you're referring to the price on a 2WD unit with those 4 options. That is about invoice price. Of course, there is a $500 rebate in effect so that is likely why you're getting it that low. If you're talking that price for a 4X4, give me that dealer's phone number quick! I'm not sure what other folks are getting these for, but I hope I'm not getting screwed when I get mine tomorrow. I'm looking at the Lariat 4X4 SCrew. I was hoping to find one with the power sliding back window, but none of the dealers in my area have those yet. The equipment on the truck I intend to buy in the morning includes: 5.4, limited slip, side steps, skid plates, electric moon roof, rear slider, tow pkg, 6 disc, bed extender and the heated leather seats. I will take the truckdude's advice on the warranty as I'm getting a bunch of crap that is likely to break. The dealer wants me to give 31,600 for the truck and is offering the 500 rebate or low FMC financing. The invoice on the truck is $31.3, which is a little more than where I'll be at after the rebate. I can't keep cruising the family of 5 in my Honda hatch back, or I'd definitely wait for the Lariat upgrade package to come out, it includes matching color side steps, power rear slider, and simulated wood-grain dash/trim it is an $800+ upgrade. I hope that Chevy and Dodge price their 4 door units due out next year in this same price range or these trucks are going to depreciate quickly. I too have a hard time justifying the 4X4, my Suburban had it and I used it once on the road (snow) and used it alot when pulling my boat out of the water. If you don't think you're going to need it, don't get it; especially if you want the 4.6 engine. Good luck.

jackd74

mikep9, the X-plan will definately save u some change. You get vehicles for 4% above the A-plan price(Ford employee discount). This price is listed right on the dealers invoice. When looking at 2001 F-150's this week, I could have saved over $1500 on average. I opted to purchase a used 2000 F-150 4dr 4x4 Lariat Sidestep Extended Cab with 14,000 miles. But the X-Plan is definately in your favor. You still receive all the incentives and rebates that all other customers would receive.