Look on the www.ford-diesel.com faq for the VOPC procedure. Congrats on the order, your gonna love the truck!
kreynol2: I don't know from personal experience, however I do remember reading stories (either here or ford-diesel.com) about folks struggle with dually's in snow.. I'm a big fan of LS diffs, but it seems that the LS will make it more likely for the rear wheels to break loose when cornering. However, in getting started, the LS will help.. Just be careful..
..As Bess stated there have been some other posts within this group regarding the somewhat poor performance of duallys in the snow. My .49-cents is that the tire selection that often is standard on duallys is mostly to blame. The tires that are often equipped on these monsters are often "street-tires" with a heavy load rating. Living in the snowbelt that you do, it might be worth a trip to a local tire store to put some more aggressive tread on the truck and some sand bags. Living here in "Corn-Country", I have seen alot of the farmers swap out the standard equipment tires for ones that are more designed for the mud/snow....maybe these ILL. farmers know something as I have yet to see a dually stuck in a field!! If you can't find a good tire store near you, pick up any OFF-ROAD magazine, they have pleanty of advertisements for companies selling tires. If you do swap out tires, the limited slip will make a diffence in starting out, heck, might not even need 4x4, but as BESS stated, they can be "fun" around corners Anyway, that is my .49-cents worth.....
My wife drives our "94" Grand Cherokee and gets 12-15.5 mpg with a 6 cyl. I don't think it weighs more than 4800 lbs. and when pulling our travel trailer we only get 9-10 mpg.
Someone mentioned that their SD configuration weighed 6800 lbs.+ and having an extra 4 cyl. running-----still getting 10 mpg----wow!!!!
It will be fun to finally see what it will do pulling our trailer. It is the main reason we are buying a truck. Every time I got in a strong cross wind or a large truck & trailer passed me the travel trailer would steer the car!!!! Our truck should allot safer to tow with and besides it will allow me more room to throw in MORE toys!!
Keep us posted on future mileage figures. It would be interesting to see if it continues to go UP!!!! THANKS!!!!
Thanks for the information on your Extended Warranties. JTC, what are the specifics on you vehicle, PSD? duallys? All info will be helpful. The dealer that quoted me the $3,100 price sent me brochures on three Ford programs. Best plan was the "Premium Care", next in line was the "Extra Care", and then finally "Powertrain Care". Did your dealer give you figures on any others than the Extra Care?
Gossmar, I haven't come across "Premier" in my research of ESP's. How can I get information on the coverages, underwriters etc? Thanks
Well my salesmen finally called me back,(5 days later), I can make my Changes to my order (F250 SC, XLT,4x4,auto,V10). Thanks to all you I have also requested a copy of the DORA which he states he will fax me Monday, after he updates it with the changes. The issue of driving in the with duallys. I would think like any other pickup the tires would be an important factor but also the amount of weight you have over the rear axle is a key factor in how much traction you would get.
I've got a dually in Alaska. It handles great in fresh snow in 4wd and I don't carry anything in the bed. In 2wd, it's a different ballgame. I have the 4.30 V-10 L/S. You definitely don't want to break traction at hwy speeds in any vehicle. I use my ESOF extensively, so it's important to remember when you are and are not in 2wd. A moderate tap on the accelerator in 2wd can cause the rear to fish tail pretty easily in any pickup. In 4wd, the chances of fishtailing are greatly reduced.
I'm a pretty agressive driver in winter conditions. The only vehicle I ever put in a ditch in the winter was a 70 GTO when I was 17 (19 years ago). The age and the car speak for themselves. There are a lot of 4wd vehicles that end up in the ditches up here. The key is to remember that they don't slow down any quicker or recover any better when you lose control at hwy speeds. You've got to keep your distance behind vehicles and take longer getting up to hwy speeds, so you don't risk breaking traction. You also need to be long gradual lane changes, especially if there are snow berms between lanes.
I don't find the duallys to be any more of a factor in the winter in 4wd than the SRW I owned. Off-roading is another story.
I am still getting 12.5 mpg with all my in town driving...y2k F250 4x2 3.73ls V10. On my last tank of 50/50 highway to in town driving ....my milage was 13.5 mpg. I will be doing some highway driving this week so I will post back with those numbers. Brutus.....it was 82 degrees out today....was out playing soccer and football with the neighborhood kids today....sweatin' like you wouldn't believe....am thinkin about AIR CONDITIONING my garage......ha ha ha!!!
Ya, I thought they would get better mpg especially being 6 cyl.. But the wife has AWD on hers and I have the old SOF system. I pretty much average 16/17 mpg and she does 12/15 mpg.. Oh well, other than that they have been good vehicles. That's why I've been really pumped over the fact that I will be going from 190 hp to over 300 hp without too much noticeable difference in MPG. TO COOL!!!!!! Just have to figure a way to keep my wifes LEAD FOOT out of the TRUCK or I'm sure I will be posting 5/6 mpg-- HA-HA.
CRAZYELVIS: That's pretty "COLD"( 'scuse the pun). Raggin on a guy that won't see the high side of 60 degrees for the next seven months!!!!
You just might wake up one morning with all of us Super Duty owners North of the 46th parallel standin on your front porch, swimsuit in hand, askin whats for breakfast???!!! Ha Ha--- You lucky dog!
Still waiting for delivery.......So until then I have nothing but jibberish to post
Gas is $1.72 point 9 and more out here in Guam, Marianas Islands. Pretty expensive trip to the gas station with the mileage of the V10. Most folks run rice burners around here. I'm out here on business and still checking in to see what's the buzz here on the place to be. I can even call the VOPC and find out that I am "clean and unscheduled as of 11/18" (not a surprise). Ordered 10/30, DORA 11/2; F350 Lariat, 4wd, SRW, LB, V10, auto and a few other bells and whistles (of course).
I loved the pics of PARROT_HEAD's' vehicle, similar configuration to my order (I was going to say my new truck but technically it's not yet - mine is clearcoat red). PARROT_HEAD - hey where are you in Virginia (saw your tags - I'm in Virginia Beach)?
Getting very anxious about getting a status change and hoping that it will be a nice Christmas present for us before we head north for the ritual familial visits. Does anyone know how the factory schedule shifts for the holidays? My dealer has good allocation and I was hoping for an 8 week delivery but with the holiday factor thrown in I think that a pre-Christmas delivery may be overly optimistic for my new behemoth.
Great to check in with you folks. Hey CRAZYELVIS, I think Guam has Florida beat right now for heat and humidity. But then again you don't have to fly multi-thousands of miles to enjoy the tropical environment. Heading home tomorrow morning (Tuesday here at 7:30 am, and get back to VA Beach at 1222 the SAME DAY - factor in the date line - remember: Sunday in San Francisco, Monday in Manila). It is a long trip, even longer in "sardine class".
Getting ants in my pants and I still have a ways to go before our new one arrives (right now it is only a twinkle in its fathers' eye!!!!!).
rbw69, the quotes I got from the dealer were for the Extra Care plan. This is the top of the line plan Ford has I'm told. My truck is a 250 SD 5.4 Lariat 4x4 SB two tone ESOF and a few more extras. The dealer says the EC plan is best because of the electronics in the truck that it covers. They also quoted me $399.00 for the Ford security system and $595.00 for the Lojack system. Are these standard prices? As I asked before, has anyone made changes to their truck specs after ordering but before scheduled to build and have been charged a $50 processing fee by the dealer? Just interested in knowing. Thanks
jepsonfam - in alexandria. thanks for comments. still have to get a brushguard, looking at warn. will probably chip it sooner rather than later, researching them now.
If your talking about the idel controller, this is for people who want the truck for more then just driving. Dump truck conversion, or welder/generator add ons for example. Something where the engine will be running, providing power to something (hydrolic pump or generator) while the truck is not moving.
In that case you plug in the aux idle controller, activate it. The go outside, and do you job. If your just doing a dump truck work, you don't really need it as your foot can do the job. If you are welding something in the field you need faster then idle RPMs, but you won't be in the truck to keep them up.
I'm sure there are other things that can benifit to, but in general this is for contractors who are useing the engine for more then driving around.
I think it would be cool, I just wish I had a use for it.
I have been hearing clean & unscheduled for over two months. It was nice to hear "your order has been serialized". Had to tell someone. Thanks for all the great posts. I read them every day, it keeps me from going crazy, Right elvis.
oooops...thats bobby mcfarrin....all of you northern SD owners....come on down for breakfast....and then for a swim in the pool!!! I might even take ya's to the beach!! Did some HWY driving today.....went to downtown St. Pete....filled up near home...drove....and filled up back by the house....98% hwy...2.1% city....computer read 15.9 and I calculated out 16 mpg......like I have said in previous posts...00 V10 3.73ls....with a roll top bed cover...so no wind resistance on the tailgate......
Ordered 10/8/99: F 350 SC Lariat 4X4 SRW LB V10 Auto 4:30 LS. As of today no change in status, Clean and unscheduled. I am seeking comments on the ability of this truck, as equipped, to tow fifth wheel, 30ft American Star weighing approximately 10,0000 empty. Please keep mind I am not a full timer with fifth wheel and most of towing will be in- state except a few long distance trips per year. Note: I am not considering Diesel or Dually because of everyday use intown. Your comments and/or opinions are welcomed. Thanks in advance!
Over a month to get a build date is too long, I'd say. Ask your dealer for an explanation. If Ford won't even commit to any build date, that's a little scary.
The idle controller is meant to operate with the tranny power take-off option, right? If the SD product literature had explained how a non-commercial buyer might make use of the option, I might have ordered it 'cause it's not that expensive. Can you get, say, an air compressor with a driveshaft that runs in under the chassis and mates with the take-off fitting?
The Ford lit. has lots of macho glamour pics but it's still short on hard specs. How about a temp. range and draw rating for the engine heater? A little detail on the LS differential?
My truck has been locked in for production the week of 11/29 with an ETA of 12/20. F-250 sd,4x4, swb, v-10, cc, 3.73ls, white over gold lariat. Will automated VOPC tell me an exact build date or should I contact the dealer? I used a small dealership and had to wait almost 2 months for a build. Can't wait til Christmas!!!!
That mpg far exceeds what I get with my 99. Much of the difference is the 4x4 dually and 4.30, but it still sounds like you are getting at least 1mpg better than what I remember being posted from other 99MY owners of similar trucks.
Then again, you are a flatlander, so that could have an impact on mpg. It's pretty awesome getting up every morning in a city surrounded by mountains in all directions, where you can see Denali (Mt. McKinley to you lower 48ers) on a clear day, and the northern lights on a clear, cool night. No need to feel sorry for this northerner. I'm back in Alaska by choice. I like the snow. If all goes as planned and I get my snowmachine for next season, I'll be looking forward to the first snowfall as much as I look forward to the first salmon running up the stream an the first halibut hitting the bay. Besides, it's downright tropical here in Anchorage compared to other cities farther north. In the city of Barrow Alaska (the northern most city in the US), the sun set on Friday and won't rise again until the last week in January.
Yes, it will tell you when built, then "released", then "shipped by rail or convoy",then arrival at "ramp" ( drop off point awaitng delivery to dealer) Ya just have to hang in there... I have been waiting since 9/7/99, delivery any day now...ordered 9/7/99, serialized 10/15, built 11/1 ( my birthday, I love it), released to rail 11/5, at ramp 11/15 to dealer ??? hopefully by Thanksgiving ... 250 CC SRW PSD Lariat LWB AUTO etc. ( about to pee all over myself.. . so close... excited beyond belief..wife promises to sleep in it with me first night... well maybe)
Sprintout... see my many past posts related to this subject (especially in archived "SD cont'd"). to reiterate, though, you're probably okay unless you're going out west & plan on tackling those bigger mountains. the 4.3 diff will "help" as well. just how well your config stands up of course, depends somewhat upon your driving style. you need to be sensible & practical with this load (in comparison to the psd/manual tranny combo). note, though that the v10 is NOT short on torque compared with most any other "gasser" in this class (it is only about 75 foot pounds short of the psd... so this engine is no "slouch" when it comes to hauling stuff around).
there's other issues to consider as well. side rail height is a real issue as these trucks stand tall in comparison to other vendors (56-59" depending upon config). you need at least 5 inches of clearance between the rail & your fiver to feel at ease. hope all this helps.
tom18... congrats on finally getting that truck on order. holidays coming will probably lengthen your baby's arrival time but at least the ball begins to roll.
scheduled to build this week... daily VOPC checks til then but no change in status as yet.
Got a call this afternoon informing me that my truck had arrived! My sales person dropped it off at my door at about 5:30. I LOVE IT! Well worth the wait. (Built 10/27, arrived here 11/22) So much for rail transport!
How's the roll top holding up? I'm going to be getting one next week, along with a Line-X spray in liner. Also, had a bug shield and mud flaps put on before delivery.
I want the overhead console.. but not leather seats... so ordered an XLT CC SB psd and I'm asking if there is anything close in the after market world for the overhead console?? I also know that in Canada I could get Leather seats "delete" on a lariat has anyone given that a shot here????? (Don't want all that Karma from that leather!!!!) Thanks for your help
Thanks for the information. I'm just trying to figure out if calling VOPC everyday for an update was going to help. Got my fingers crossed that your SD makes it by Thanksgiving. Should have PLENTY of room to spend the night.
Hello everyone, my 2000 F-250,SD,SC,4x4,PSD,SRW,SB,Lariat has been shipped by rail with an estimated time of arrival of Dec. 2nd. I was suppose to arrive before Thanksgiving. I thought I would be enjoying this beast during my four days off........I guess I'll be dreaming about it.
By the way, I was told that the 4x4s stand about 81 inches tall, or 6 feet 9 inches. How many more inches will the cab lights "roof lights" add?
How wide are the power telescoping mirrors in their compressed mode compared to the standard mirrors. I ordered the standard ones because I don't have much clearance in my garage.
I've had a Pace Edwards rolltop for over two years now. The first year it was fine when I was able to park my truck in the garage at night. Then we purchased a BMW M3, now I have to park my truck outside. Two problems started to occur then: 1. The flat back side rails started to peel, exposing the bare aluminum. 2. The top started to wrinkle and then finally bubbled. Pace Edwards stood behind their product and replaced the side rails and top for free, but I had to pay the dealer $60 for the replacement.
My honest opinion, the rolltop is a good idea, but in my experience if you have to park your truck outside, I would rethink the rolltop.
I park my truck outside....but have only had the truck since Oct. 15.......roll top went on the next day.....So far so good. Have they changed any design aspect since you bought yours scottj?? I will watch for the problems you experienced. Hey Brutus.....I'm just givin ya the business about Alaska....it is one of the places I want to visit in my lifetime.....as I said many many posts back....I have been off the coast there before...on a trip to the N. Pole.....under the ice of coarse!! I don't know if I could handle a few months of darkness all the time though....but since I have spent 4 months underwater on my old sub....I guess you just cope with whatever situation prestents itself....Oh well....time for a few laps in the pool!!!! and for you...maybe some ice skating!!
Wildside, that's exactly why I'm a little worried. I measured the vertical height of my garage door opening and its 7 feet from the cement to the cross beam. I am hoping the clearance lights don't push me over 7 feet, otherwise I'll be calling in the carpenters. If the 4x4s stand 81 inches or 6'9", will the clearance lights push me over 7 feet????????
I seem to remember seeing "cloth faced seat credit" on a Lariat order sheet my local dealer showed me a few weeks ago. It was also listed as an option at www.fordvehicles.com under build your Ford last year. I haven't looked at the Ford site since they posted 2000 SD info.
I was just happy my truck will fit on my DRIVEWAY without hanging out into the sidewalk (just barely)! My garage is about 3 feet too SHORT for this truck, so I didn't even bother checking the height! I've hear that the clearance lites add about 1".
2000 F250/CC/LWB/Lariet/4X4/V10/4.30LS Ordered 10/15, Scheduled week of 12/6
Does anybody have f250/350 sd. shwb.experiance with pulling trailers? I have a 99 f250 5.4 sd.shwb that i purchased 6/99 and feel it is very underpowered for the hills in my area, but i do love the truck . I am concidering a trade in for the diesel engine but i dont want to make a costly mistake. I tow 2 different trailers for my building buisiness plus a camper for summer fun. Average trailer weight of 7000 lbs. Can anybody offer opinions? Thanks.
Kgrantc...I do think that the clearance lights will push you over, if not shave them every time you pull in. Of course there are other factors, are you pulling into the garage level, downhill, uphill?? I also have a 16x7 door, and if memory serves me correctly I only have about 2" driving in(SLOWLY) on my y2k 250 xlt sc v-10 4x4...I am also going uphill to a level garage floor which I think helps a little bit. One thing though...you WILL need to change the antenna, as it will bang, drag, scrape the door every time you leave. I went to WAL-MART and purchased an aftermarket short whip antenna for $4.97. It came with adapters, installed in 3-minutes. From what I can tell, the reception is still the same. Granted the lights do look cool, but consider some of the possible downsides. 1. will it fit in the garage with lights, this also includes parking garages? 2. Changing the bulbs when burnt out, will I get the lights re-sealed. 3. Possible leakage after time. 4. Several more items to wax around. Another thing to consider, is the garage clearance 7-ft ALL the way across the header and will your truck sit at 80.5", 81", 81.5"...no two trucks are the same. I had all of these concerns before signing the papers on my truck. Ask you dealer if you can take one home to make sure it fits inside the garage, preferably with the lights. I was able to take a new truck home for an entire weekend to make sure this was what I wanted(like duh). I had my neighbor watch to make sure the clearances were okay and drove in on BOTH sides of the 16x7 door to make sure. Zrust, sorry to hear the monster wont fit inside the garage. I have a 24Wx30L and it fills up the one side REAL WELL! The garage is kept at 56-degrees during the winter months...sometimes I leave the tv on so it has something to do when I'm not driving it and I keep the fridge stocked in case it gets thirsty.... Ashewitt....I did measurements on my Pwr TT mirrors and posted the results some time back. The width of the truck with both mirrors telescoped out is 90", both mirrors telescoped in 84". Each mirror has 3" of telescoping action. Not sure of the width on the standard mirrors, but I would guess it is only an 1" or 2" difference.
I ordered my 350 XLT CC 4WD V-10 AT SWB Dually today. I'll be getting an 8.5 ft slidein camper soon to complete the package. I called Sharon Law at Anderson Ford and was really impressed with her helpfulness. While I didn't end up purchasing a truck from her, I'm sure her offer sparked my local dealer to match it. I had contacted the local Mpls strictly truck dealer about doing business, they weren't even close in price. I guess business must be too good!! About price, as someone stated earlier, bottom line is all that counts. I finally bought a truck from a local dealer at $300 over invoice, it was $1.50 cheaper than Sharon's offer of $100 over. The good part is no six hour drive for pickup. I get my priority 10 DORA tomorrow, anticipate a March/April delivery. Can't wait!! I learned a lot here, keep up the good dialog.
thank you. I went to "ford" they do say cloth "faced" seats.. I'm gonna check with the dealer again..... this dude has an attitude about my questions. Sites like this are invaluable in dealing with these guys.... Still wanna know if there is a decent aftermarket for the overhead console........
received a call from my dealer around 4:30 pm this evening my lariet f250s/d dark toreador red has arrived!!!! Hopefully i'll have by the weekend ordered 9/6/99..like others in this forum it has been a lot of fun reading the posts along with the vopc messages etc..Good luck to all of you still waiting it's worth the wait...
Looks like they're really coming in now. I too got a call from the dealer today. Your truck is here come and get it!!!! 2000 SD SC 4x4 5.4 Auto 4:10LS Anticipate pickup by 2pm on wednesday. Order placed with factory on 9/24. At dealer 11/23. Will post milage etc.. as available.
My bank is way out of line so where are y'all getting your $$$? also please explain again the differences in the 3.73 axle ratio and 4.3? which best to use with the V10 and manual?? Thanks PS almost ready to order....
I was aware that the back seat in the Lariat is fake leather, but now I'm hearing that the front seat may only be partial leather (middle of seating surface only). Can anyone verify??
Glad to see I'm not the only one with the double post plague!!!!! (# 747 & # 748)
This may be a couple of days early but I hope all you "HAVES" and all us "HAVE NOTS" have a wonderful Thanksgiving, enjoy your time with friends and family!! Cherish the moment.
Well I received my DORA Monday morning just like the salesmen promised which is a first for me. I noticed he changed my 4.10 ls to the 4.30 ls, does anybody have this rear end and if so what kind of mpg can I expect? I'm thinking of having him change it to the 3.73 to improve mpg if there is a big difference.
Tom, I have used Sharon Law like yourself. Can you keep in contact with me about your progress. My E-mail is whamm1068@aol.com I will do so also ,give me an address.
ashewitt... believe those TT mirrors fold completely "in" (they wind up next to the door & only "stick out" a few inches. Gossamar, others, verify?
crazyelvis, brutus... well, even though Brutus doesn't quite see totally 24 hour dark (a bit below the circle)... the case is also a rather moot point as the sun isn't ever very high anywhere in Alaska no matter the time of year. we're going to get up there sometime though, in our travels as Brutus has it right... Alaska is a beautiful place, as are many places in USA at certain times of year (we'd rather be somewhere else in the summer, quite frankly). so we all make the best of what the cards deal, I suppose.
still no build... maybe tomorrow. the VOPC had a message about some kind of problem with the PSD's but was more than likely "line" related as there certainly are no shortages (we're "locked" anyway so our engine has been "spoken for").
cabbage1... I've made many posts in regard to pulling fivers (in this and in Ford SD cont'd threads). to reiterate, though... you didn't mention your total percentage of "pull" time. anyhow, the 5.4 probably would be a little underpowered on other than flat terrain with that load. But you probably do not need the psd if you're not almost constantly pulling loads over 8k or so (regardless of any other configs). it is a good idea to get the sb, though. we ordered it primarily because we also ordered the CC (which gives you additional stability due to the lengthened wheelbase over the default) so stability is a non-issue as a result. even though you gain a 5 foot lesser turning radius though, there is a couple of downsides 1) you get a 29 gal fuel tank (not 38) 2) you need an "extended" king pin on your fiver(s). you can go with an alternate route that has become available called "sliding" hitches. but I wouldn't recommend that because if you forget to slide the thing (you also lose stability as this can put the load point aft of the rear axle (or very close to it)), a smashed cab could also result. I'd recommend the v10 if you're not towing > 70% as primary usage nor exceeding 8k towing (loaded). you can even go further on both counts if you order the 4.3 diff over the default 3.73. in fact, if you do go with the 4.3 you can do just about anything the psd can do... albeit a little more carefully near the "limits" (remember that there's only 75 foot pounds of difference between them). I also would not order the manual tranny (it's 5 gears) with the v10 nor would I order the auto with the psd. we ordered psd with the 6 speed manual as tow capacity country wide is primary usage. note also that cut-off for v10 order (1st build) was today (noted in an earlier post (tom18))... so there may be some delays with all orders until the 1st build runs complete. it would seem logical that this would be true as the later build probably has some minor re-tooling, etc. b4 it gets "cranked" up. anyway, my opinion on that. hope all this helps.
Well, as usual on our way to the YM/YWCA swimming pool with the boys we decided to cruise through the Ford dealers lot and see what new vehicles have come in. To our great surprise, our new baby is here. One week earlier than expected. We ordered our truck, F350XLT, CC, SWB, PSD on 10/09 received our DORA on 10/12 and expected our delivery to be 11/29. So from DORA date to arrival date it looks to be 6 weeks.
Lets just say we are very excited about this. Now we just have to get the interior Scotch Guarded and have the truck PDI'ed and we will have it in our hot little hands. Can't wait!
Thanks to all for the posts during the last couple of weeks. Has been easier waiting, just by reading these posts every morning. I will let you all know what he MPG is like and such as soon as I get some miles in.
What's happining with your beast? latest info on mine is shipped by rail carrier delivery for week of 11-29. Hope I have it by my birth day 12-15, or earlyer, would make a nice present.we'll see. John
canoe: Be aware that V10 with Manual transmission you can NOT get a limited slip 3.73 (only normal 3.73), so if if you wanted a limited slip diff + V10 + manual transmission you have to get the 4.30 ratio.
ffd804: Engine choice, transmission choice, and limited slip preference will narrow down which ratio's are available.. I prefer the limited slip rear end.
If your getting the 5.4L V8, I would recommend the 4.10LS rear end.. Although the engine is very nice, I think the 3.73 would be a little high of a gear and with a manual tranny you can't get an 3.73LS with this engine.
If your getting the V10 with auto tranny, the most popular seems to be the 3.73LS. However if your pulling the really big stuff, you may want to go with the 4.30.. V10 with the manual tranny you can get a 3.73 or 4.30, but if you want a LS rear, you have to go 4.30.
If your getting a PSD, the 3.73 LS seems to be popular no matter which tranny you get.
Just an opinion.. fyi, I have the 5.4L, 4.10LS, 5sp.
Comments
kreynol2:
I don't know from personal experience, however I do remember reading stories (either here or ford-diesel.com) about folks struggle with dually's in snow..
I'm a big fan of LS diffs, but it seems that the LS will make it more likely for the rear wheels to break loose when cornering. However, in getting started, the LS will help..
Just be careful..
My wife drives our "94" Grand Cherokee and gets 12-15.5 mpg with a 6 cyl. I don't think it weighs more than 4800 lbs. and when pulling our travel trailer we only get 9-10 mpg.
Someone mentioned that their SD configuration weighed 6800 lbs.+ and having an extra 4 cyl. running-----still getting 10 mpg----wow!!!!
It will be fun to finally see what it will do pulling our trailer. It is the main reason we are buying a truck. Every time I got in a strong cross wind or a large truck & trailer passed me the travel trailer would steer the car!!!! Our truck should allot safer to tow with and besides it will allow me more room to throw in MORE toys!!
Keep us posted on future mileage figures. It would be interesting to see if it continues to go UP!!!! THANKS!!!!
Gossmar, I haven't come across "Premier" in my research of ESP's. How can I get information on the coverages, underwriters etc? Thanks
The issue of driving in the with duallys. I would think like any other pickup the tires would be an important factor but also the amount of weight you have over the rear axle is a key factor in how much traction you would get.
Can someone tell me the bed height, ground to floor level of bed for 2000 F250 2WD?
Thanks
I'm a pretty agressive driver in winter conditions. The only vehicle I ever put in a ditch in the winter was a 70 GTO when I was 17 (19 years ago). The age and the car speak for themselves. There are a lot of 4wd vehicles that end up in the ditches up here. The key is to remember that they don't slow down any quicker or recover any better when you lose control at hwy speeds. You've got to keep your distance behind vehicles and take longer getting up to hwy speeds, so you don't risk breaking traction. You also need to be long gradual lane changes, especially if there are snow berms between lanes.
I don't find the duallys to be any more of a factor in the winter in 4wd than the SRW I owned. Off-roading is another story.
Brutus.....it was 82 degrees out today....was out playing soccer and football with the neighborhood kids today....sweatin' like you wouldn't believe....am thinkin about AIR CONDITIONING my garage......ha ha ha!!!
CRAZYELVIS: That's pretty "COLD"( 'scuse the pun). Raggin on a guy that won't see the high side of 60 degrees for the next seven months!!!!
You just might wake up one morning with all of us Super Duty owners North of the 46th parallel standin on your front porch, swimsuit in hand, askin whats for breakfast???!!! Ha Ha--- You lucky dog!
Still waiting for delivery.......So until then I have nothing but jibberish to post
I loved the pics of PARROT_HEAD's' vehicle, similar configuration to my order (I was going to say my new truck but technically it's not yet - mine is clearcoat red). PARROT_HEAD - hey where are you in Virginia (saw your tags - I'm in Virginia Beach)?
Getting very anxious about getting a status change and hoping that it will be a nice Christmas present for us before we head north for the ritual familial visits. Does anyone know how the factory schedule shifts for the holidays? My dealer has good allocation and I was hoping for an 8 week delivery but with the holiday factor thrown in I think that a pre-Christmas delivery may be overly optimistic for my new behemoth.
Great to check in with you folks. Hey CRAZYELVIS, I think Guam has Florida beat right now for heat and humidity. But then again you don't have to fly multi-thousands of miles to enjoy the tropical environment. Heading home tomorrow morning (Tuesday here at 7:30 am, and get back to VA Beach at 1222 the SAME DAY - factor in the date line - remember: Sunday in San Francisco, Monday in Manila). It is a long trip, even longer in "sardine class".
Getting ants in my pants and I still have a ways to go before our new one arrives (right now it is only a twinkle in its fathers' eye!!!!!).
In that case you plug in the aux idle controller, activate it. The go outside, and do you job. If your just doing a dump truck work, you don't really need it as your foot can do the job. If you are welding something in the field you need faster then idle RPMs, but you won't be in the truck to keep them up.
I'm sure there are other things that can benifit to, but in general this is for contractors who are useing the engine for more then driving around.
I think it would be cool, I just wish I had a use for it.
As of today no change in status, Clean and unscheduled.
I am seeking comments on the ability of this truck, as equipped, to tow fifth wheel, 30ft American Star weighing approximately 10,0000 empty. Please keep mind I am not a full timer with fifth wheel and most of towing will be in- state except a few long distance trips per year.
Note: I am not considering Diesel or Dually because of everyday use intown.
Your comments and/or opinions are welcomed.
Thanks in advance!
The idle controller is meant to operate with the tranny power take-off option, right? If the SD product literature had explained how a non-commercial buyer might make use of the option, I might have ordered it 'cause it's not that expensive. Can you get, say, an air compressor with a driveshaft that runs in under the chassis and mates with the take-off fitting?
The Ford lit. has lots of macho glamour pics but it's still short on hard specs. How about a temp. range and draw rating for the engine heater? A little detail on the LS differential?
That mpg far exceeds what I get with my 99. Much of the difference is the 4x4 dually and 4.30, but it still sounds like you are getting at least 1mpg better than what I remember being posted from other 99MY owners of similar trucks.
Then again, you are a flatlander, so that could have an impact on mpg. It's pretty awesome getting up every morning in a city surrounded by mountains in all directions, where you can see Denali (Mt. McKinley to you lower 48ers) on a clear day, and the northern lights on a clear, cool night. No need to feel sorry for this northerner. I'm back in Alaska by choice. I like the snow. If all goes as planned and I get my snowmachine for next season, I'll be looking forward to the first snowfall as much as I look forward to the first salmon running up the stream an the first halibut hitting the bay. Besides, it's downright tropical here in Anchorage compared to other cities farther north. In the city of Barrow Alaska (the northern most city in the US), the sun set on Friday and won't rise again until the last week in January.
then "shipped by rail or convoy",then arrival at "ramp" ( drop off point awaitng delivery to dealer) Ya just have to hang in there... I have been waiting since 9/7/99, delivery any day now...ordered 9/7/99, serialized 10/15, built
11/1 ( my birthday, I love it), released to rail 11/5, at ramp 11/15 to dealer ??? hopefully by Thanksgiving ... 250 CC SRW PSD Lariat LWB AUTO etc. ( about to pee all over myself.. . so close... excited beyond belief..wife promises
to sleep in it with me first night... well maybe)
there's other issues to consider as well. side rail height is a real issue as these trucks stand tall in comparison to other vendors (56-59" depending upon config). you need at least 5 inches of clearance between the rail & your fiver to feel at ease. hope all this helps.
tom18... congrats on finally getting that truck on order. holidays coming will probably lengthen your baby's arrival time but at least the ball begins to roll.
scheduled to build this week... daily VOPC checks til then but no change in status as yet.
Y2K SD F250 4x4 Lariat, V10, Auto, ESOF, LT265/75R AT's, 3.73LS, Sliding Rear Window, Trailer Tow Pkg, Trailer Hitch Receiver, CD, Off Road Pkg, Privacy Glass, Two-Tone Paint (Dark Toreador Red/Black)
Thanks for all the info, sure was fun tracking this baby! Will post milage, etc. when I get some info. Only 28 miles so far...
P.S. VOPC still says "As of 11/7... shipped via rail"
(Don't want all that Karma from that leather!!!!)
Thanks for your help
By the way, I was told that the 4x4s stand about 81 inches tall, or 6 feet 9 inches. How many more inches will the cab lights "roof lights" add?
1. The flat back side rails started to peel, exposing the bare aluminum.
2. The top started to wrinkle and then finally bubbled.
Pace Edwards stood behind their product and replaced the side rails and top for free, but I had to pay the dealer $60 for the replacement.
My honest opinion, the rolltop is a good idea, but in my experience if you have to park your truck outside, I would rethink the rolltop.
Scott
Hey Brutus.....I'm just givin ya the business about Alaska....it is one of the places I want to visit in my lifetime.....as I said many many posts back....I have been off the coast there before...on a trip to the N. Pole.....under the ice of coarse!! I don't know if I could handle a few months of darkness all the time though....but since I have spent 4 months underwater on my old sub....I guess you just cope with whatever situation prestents itself....Oh well....time for a few laps in the pool!!!! and for you...maybe some ice skating!!
2000 F250/CC/LWB/Lariet/4X4/V10/4.30LS
Ordered 10/15, Scheduled week of 12/6
Granted the lights do look cool, but consider some of the possible downsides. 1. will it fit in the garage with lights, this also includes parking garages? 2. Changing the bulbs when burnt out, will I get the lights re-sealed. 3. Possible leakage after time. 4. Several more items to wax around.
Another thing to consider, is the garage clearance 7-ft ALL the way across the header and will your truck sit at 80.5", 81", 81.5"...no two trucks are the same. I had all of these concerns before signing the papers on my truck. Ask you dealer if you can take one home to make sure it fits inside the garage, preferably with the lights. I was able to take a new truck home for an entire weekend to make sure this was what I wanted(like duh). I had my neighbor watch to make sure the clearances were okay and drove in on BOTH sides of the 16x7 door to make sure.
Zrust, sorry to hear the monster wont fit inside the garage. I have a 24Wx30L and it fills up the one side REAL WELL! The garage is kept at 56-degrees during the winter months...sometimes I leave the tv on so it has something to do when I'm not driving it and I keep the fridge stocked in case it gets thirsty....
Ashewitt....I did measurements on my Pwr TT mirrors and posted the results some time back. The width of the truck with both mirrors telescoped out is 90", both mirrors telescoped in 84". Each mirror has 3" of telescoping action. Not sure of the width on the standard mirrors, but I would guess it is only an 1" or 2" difference.
again thanks
also please explain again the differences in the 3.73 axle ratio and 4.3? which best to use with the V10 and manual?? Thanks
PS almost ready to order....
This may be a couple of days early but I hope all you "HAVES" and all us "HAVE NOTS" have a wonderful Thanksgiving, enjoy your time with friends and family!! Cherish the moment.
,give me an address.
only "stick out" a few inches. Gossamar, others,
verify?
crazyelvis, brutus... well, even though Brutus
doesn't quite see totally 24 hour dark (a bit below the circle)... the case is also a rather moot point as the sun isn't ever very high anywhere in Alaska no matter the time of year. we're going to get up there sometime though, in our travels as Brutus has it right... Alaska is a beautiful place, as are many places in USA at certain times of year (we'd rather be somewhere else in the summer, quite frankly). so we all make the best of what the cards deal, I suppose.
still no build... maybe tomorrow. the VOPC had a
message about some kind of problem with the PSD's
but was more than likely "line" related as there
certainly are no shortages (we're "locked" anyway
so our engine has been "spoken for").
cabbage1... I've made many posts in regard to
pulling fivers (in this and in Ford SD cont'd
threads). to reiterate, though... you didn't
mention your total percentage of "pull" time.
anyhow, the 5.4 probably would be a little
underpowered on other than flat terrain with that
load. But you probably do not need the psd if
you're not almost constantly pulling loads over 8k
or so (regardless of any other configs). it is a
good idea to get the sb, though. we ordered it
primarily because we also ordered the CC (which
gives you additional stability due to the
lengthened wheelbase over the default) so stability is a non-issue as a result. even though you gain a 5 foot lesser turning radius though, there is a couple of downsides 1) you get a 29 gal fuel tank (not 38) 2) you need an "extended" king pin on your fiver(s). you can go with an alternate route that has become available called "sliding" hitches. but I wouldn't recommend that because if you forget to slide the thing (you also lose stability as this can put the load point aft of the rear axle (or very close to it)), a smashed cab could also result. I'd recommend the v10 if you're not towing > 70% as primary usage nor exceeding 8k towing (loaded). you can even go further on both counts if you order the 4.3 diff over the default 3.73. in fact, if you do go with the 4.3 you can do just about anything the psd can do... albeit a little more carefully near the "limits" (remember that there's only 75 foot pounds of difference between them). I also would not order the manual tranny (it's 5 gears) with the v10 nor would I order the auto with the psd. we ordered psd with the 6 speed manual as tow capacity country wide is primary usage. note also that cut-off for v10 order (1st build) was today (noted in an earlier post (tom18))... so there may be some delays with all orders until the 1st build runs complete. it would seem logical that this would be true as the later build probably has some minor re-tooling, etc. b4 it gets "cranked" up. anyway, my opinion on that. hope all this helps.
Lets just say we are very excited about this. Now we just have to get the interior Scotch Guarded and have the truck PDI'ed and we will have it in our hot little hands. Can't wait!
Thanks to all for the posts during the last couple of weeks. Has been easier waiting, just by reading these posts every morning. I will let you all know what he MPG is like and such as soon as I get some miles in.
John
Be aware that V10 with Manual transmission you can NOT get a limited slip 3.73 (only normal 3.73), so if if you wanted a limited slip diff + V10 + manual transmission you have to get the 4.30 ratio.
ffd804:
Engine choice, transmission choice, and limited slip preference will narrow down which ratio's are available..
I prefer the limited slip rear end.
If your getting the 5.4L V8, I would recommend the 4.10LS rear end.. Although the engine is very nice, I think the 3.73 would be a little high of a gear and with a manual tranny you can't get an 3.73LS with this engine.
If your getting the V10 with auto tranny, the most popular seems to be the 3.73LS. However if your pulling the really big stuff, you may want to go with the 4.30.. V10 with the manual tranny you can get a 3.73 or 4.30, but if you want a LS rear, you have to go 4.30.
If your getting a PSD, the 3.73 LS seems to be popular no matter which tranny you get.
Just an opinion.. fyi, I have the 5.4L, 4.10LS, 5sp.