Thanks guys for the feedback. I like the 5.0 but have not been able to find one used with the towing package, I don't have anything against the 5.4 - love it ... I'm sure the right truck will come up eventually. I only found one F150 SuperCrew with the 3.5 EB engine and it was new, lots of 2012 5.0's but only one EB.
I have been doing searches for 3.73, tow package and integrated brake controller but what I'm finding in F-150 Screw configurations (at least at local dealers) that have these features come with the 3.7 V6 engine. Seems odd to me that those towing features would be included with the less powerful engine. Here is an example (This one is new 2012)
Star Gazer wrote: Maybe in Canada as options are different. But if you price out a truck with the Max Tow package here in the State, it will have the larger mirrors. Not sure but that may only be with the EcoBoost?
well, aren't you guys all special! I'm having to buy them after the fact.
TV - 2011 F150 FX4 EB | Max Tow Pkg | LT285/55R20E1 Tires | Airlift Bags
TT - 2011 Dutchmen 295BHGS Bunkhouse
Tow equipment - Reese Trunnion style 1200/12000 bars w/Dual Cam HP Sway control
Alex ('84)
DW ('81)
DD1 ('09)
DD2 ('11)
tony007 wrote: Thanks guys for the feedback. I like the 5.0 but have not been able to find one used with the towing package, I don't have anything against the 5.4 - love it ... I'm sure the right truck will come up eventually. I only found one F150 SuperCrew with the 3.5 EB engine and it was new, lots of 2012 5.0's but only one EB.
I have been doing searches for 3.73, tow package and integrated brake controller but what I'm finding in F-150 Screw configurations (at least at local dealers) that have these features come with the 3.7 V6 engine. Seems odd to me that those towing features would be included with the less powerful engine. Here is an example (This one is new 2012)
For someone who does occasional towing of a lighter trailer, I bet the 3.7 liter would be a good choice. I read some reviews that said of the 4 engines available, it was the most surprising performer, even outsprinting the GM 5.3 V8.
The 3.7 V6 is only available in the Crew cab/supercab with the 3.73 gears. This is to help offset the extra weight of the 4 door truck with the least powerful powertrain. As far as the Tow package, I don't see why they sell trucks without them.
02 Ford Explorer 4.6 V8 4x4, prodigy and equalizer
07 Crossroads Sunset Trail ST19CK
and no payments
eye8Ubutler wrote: Since the F150 had the body revamp in 2009, the FACTORY tow package will ALWAYS (along with the other stuff) have extending TOW MIRRORS fitted. Ideal when you are still looking online at the pretty pictures.
I say this because a dealers useless idea of 'tow package' description, is that it happens to have a class IV hitch.
Of course when one is at the lot viewing a truck, a combination of checking the VRP codes plus looking under the hood will tell you to.
By the way if you like comfort, choose a GM...the seats are larger! LOL.
Wrong, the Tow package and Max tow package do not include the extended mirrors, its still and additional option. I ordered my truck with the Max tow package thinking they where part of the package and well, i'll be buying factory tow mirrors this year as they where an additional option.
Max Tow Package includes mirrors.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ 2007 (new shape)
4x4 Crew Cab VORTEC MAX (L76) 6.0L V8 4L70E 4.10 axle
factory NHT Max Trailering Package.
2010 Coachmen Freedom Express 280 RLS
"...a Waldorf Salad?, sorry we are fresh out of Waldorfs!".......BASIL FAWLTY.
After shopping for months I finally made the "big" purchase. I started looking at used but was able to get a 2012 F150 XLT with towing pkg /controller, etc. a few weeks ago for just over 29k which was only a few thousand over a comparable used 2010/11. I attributed the price drop primarily due to the almost $5k in rebates that were available from Ford when I made the purchase, including $500.00 rebate for the 5.0 engine.
We love this truck. I say "we" because my wife is now driving it every chance she gets
Here is my impression (compared to my 01):
The cab is incredibly quiet, you could hear a pin drop.
The steering is super soft, my wife can turn the steering wheel with one finger, but it adjusts/stiffens with speed - I'm still getting used to it.
The 5.0 engine is very smooth and much more responsive then the 5.4, the sound of the engine is awesome, quiet when you are cruising but it roars when you step on the throttle. Sound was not on my shopping list but it can be addictive.
It tows effortlessly. Starting from standstill is about average (EB would be best), however, once you get going and need the extra power to pass or take on a hill, this thing really shines and I feel it outperforms the 5.4 and probably others in this class.
Love the integrated break controller, transmission temperate gauge and ability to select a gear, even with a 3.55 rear it towed just fine.
I have been averaging 17 MPG around town. Have not done straight highway driving. I have only towed about 40 miles and got 9.8 MPG, kept my speed under 55MPH and have not really pushed the engine yet. After break in, I hope to get a little better mileage.
I considered the EB engine but since I really don't need to pull that much weight and wanted to keep my price low I ended up with the 5.0 ... so far so good. I hope this truck will be just as good as my previous truck which never let me down.
I would like to thank everyone on this forum that provided either directly or indirectly input to help me understand towing vehicles and my decision.
eye8Ubutler wrote: Since the F150 had the body revamp in 2009, the FACTORY tow package will ALWAYS (along with the other stuff) have extending TOW MIRRORS fitted. Ideal when you are still looking online at the pretty pictures.
I say this because a dealers useless idea of 'tow package' description, is that it happens to have a class IV hitch.
Of course when one is at the lot viewing a truck, a combination of checking the VRP codes plus looking under the hood will tell you to.
By the way if you like comfort, choose a GM...the seats are larger! LOL.
Wrong, the Tow package and Max tow package do not include the extended mirrors, its still and additional option. I ordered my truck with the Max tow package thinking they where part of the package and well, i'll be buying factory tow mirrors this year as they where an additional option.
Max Tow Package includes mirrors.
Only on the 2011+ does MAX TOW include the big mirrors (at least in the US). 09-10 it was an option like on my truck.
When all else fails, grab a bigger hammer. IYAOYAS.
2000 Aljo 2610BH
2010 Ford F150 Supercrew Lariat 5.4, 3.73 Max Tow package
Equal-I-zer 1,000lb bars.
Beautiful truck! Looks like mine except an F150! Here's wishing you many years and miles of good service and happy vacations with it.
Is it written in Genesis somewhere that thou shalt not downshift or that ye shall tow in O/D only? I've towed with a 3.07 ratio and did fine with 5 ratios available. The 3.31 or 3.55 ratio is plenty of gear reduction within it's ratings unless launching up the steep ones becomes a problem.
'10 F250 XLT CC SB 5.4L 5spdTS 3.73
ex '95 Cummins,'98 12v Cummins,'01.5 Cummins,'03 Cummins; '05 Hemi
'07 KZ Jag 28JFSS.
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