97up-list-digest Wednesday, November 4 1998 Volume 01 : Number 267



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Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 1997 and Newer Trucks and Vans
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In this issue:

Re: FTE 97up - Checking rear end lube
FTE 97up - banks stinger
Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger
Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger
New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]
Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]
Re: FTE 97up - Headlight Adjustment
FTE 97up - PSD exhaust
Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]
Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]
FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help
Re: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help
Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]
RE: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help
FTE 97up - Re: New Super Duty

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Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 06:33:17 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Checking rear end lube

You remove the plug in the differential (on the front side just over half
way up). To check the level many people just stick their finger in and see
if they can feel fluid. I suggest using a piece of plastic you can bend and
stick in the hole (the plastic extensions that come with spray cans of oil
and carb cleaner work great). This helps eliminate the error caused by
feeling fluid on the side of the differential.

Nathan Bernard
Union Auto, Inc.

- -----Original Message-----
From: Mike Fairleigh
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Tuesday, November 03, 1998 1:06 AM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Checking rear end lube


>I think one of my posts was the victim of the recent "lost posts" episode,
>so I'll try it again. Can someone let me know how you go about checking
the
>level in the rear end on a '98 F-150? (4x2 SC 4.6L limited slip.) Thanks
>very much.
>
>Mike Fairleigh
>mikef sky.net
>
>
>
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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 09:58:43 -0500
From: steve semenick
Subject: FTE 97up - banks stinger

I finished reading Jason Lester's story of installing a "Banks
Stinger"kit from the Ford Diesel Web Site. Installing the downpipe
doesn't sound easy. I have a 99 Turbo Diesel. The down pipe doesn't
look like the one described by Jason. Has Ford improved the design, if
so will a Banks downtube offer any measurable improvement? Thanks, Steve
Semenick

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Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 11:45:38 EST
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger

hello i am new to the list i currently have a 89 F 150 4x4 but i am soon to
buy a new Super duty F250 4x4 x cab w/ 7.3. I am looking for any pointers you
guys might have on new truck buy? Oh yea i also have a 93 Mustang Cobra that
makes around 800hp.

RS
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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 10:15:01 -0800
From: johny
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger

Yes, the 99 down pipe is different from the 97 PSD's.
Will it offer any measurable improvement? Probably not for a
99, although it will lighten your wallet :-).

I don't have a 97, but I do have a 99. The 99 downpipe is
about 3.5" diameter from the turbo, all the way back
to the tail pipe. Even the catalytic converter has been reported not
to be too restrictive. At most, it appears to enhance the
exhaust note, when removed/gutted.

The down pipe on the 97 is highly restrictive, and compresses down
to 1 - 1.5" or so. The exhaust temps are higher in stock form as
well, under equally loaded conditions.

And while we are at it, the 99 has an intercooler (aftercooler for the picky
:-)),
that helps keep the input air temps lower (better performance and
better emissions).

- -john

steve semenick wrote:

> I finished reading Jason Lester's story of installing a "Banks
> Stinger"kit from the Ford Diesel Web Site. Installing the downpipe
> doesn't sound easy. I have a 99 Turbo Diesel. The down pipe doesn't
> look like the one described by Jason. Has Ford improved the design, if
> so will a Banks downtube offer any measurable improvement? Thanks, Steve
> Semenick
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html



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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 13:11:33 -0800
From: George Passidakis
Subject: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]

I just joined the list last night.

I am also close to ordering a new Super Duty. In my case it's a 99 F-350 4x4 Crew Cab, SRW PSD Auto

Do the research on options and pricing. I used Edmunds.com and got LOTS of great info. I specd out the exact truck I want and then used AutoByTel.com to locate a dealer in my area. The next day I had an offer to sell me the truck for $1500.00 over invoice(not sticker price). Not a bad deal compared to what people are paying for these off the street. I have them down to $500 over invoice now and have not even been to the showroom once. A very smooth and easy process. I'll probably go Thursday and close the deal.

Keep in mind, unless you get really lucky and find what you are looking for sitting on a lot, you will probably need to order the truck. They tell me the wait 3-5 months once you order. (ouch)

Good luck,

George

At 11/03/98 11:45 AM, you wrote:
>hello i am new to the list i currently have a 89 F 150 4x4 but i am soon to
>buy a new Super duty F250 4x4 x cab w/ 7.3. I am looking for any pointers you
>guys might have on new truck buy? Oh yea i also have a 93 Mustang Cobra that
>makes around 800hp.
>
>RS
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 16:26:58 -0500
From: Chad Royse
Subject: Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]

Edmund's is a great sight. I got mine for invoice and it took two and a half months to get in. But that was back in April. Congrats on your (almost) purchase!

Chad

George Passidakis wrote:

> I just joined the list last night.
>
> I am also close to ordering a new Super Duty. In my case it's a 99 F-350 4x4 Crew Cab, SRW PSD Auto
>
> Do the research on options and pricing. I used Edmunds.com and got LOTS of great info. I specd out the exact truck I want and then used AutoByTel.com to locate a dealer in my area. The next day I had an offer to sell me the truck for $1500.00 over invoice(not sticker price). Not a bad deal compared to what people are paying for these off the street. I have them down to $500 over invoice now and have not even been to the showroom once. A very smooth and easy process. I'll probably go Thursday and close the deal.
>
> Keep in mind, unless you get really lucky and find what you are looking for sitting on a lot, you will probably need to order the truck. They tell me the wait 3-5 months once you order. (ouch)
>
> Good luck,
>
> George

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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 16:19:58 -0500
From: Jean Marc Chartier
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Headlight Adjustment

Ken Peterson wrote:
>
> > The gate you are referring is a headlamp retainer and is
> >there to keep the head- light in place. If you did not
> >return it to the lock position properly it is not locked and
> >the headlight can move. BTW a 4 mm socket will fit the end
> >of the adjuster and make it easier.
>
> I want to adjust my headlights ('98 F-250LD), and the adjusting devices
> (square shafts) look like they can be reached only with a special tool
> inserted down from the top, thru a fairly narrow slot. The shop manual
> seems to confirm this. Have you been able to access the adjustments? Mine
> are too high on high beam.
>
> ---------------
> Ken Peterson, Portland, OR
> 1998 F-250LD Lariat, extended cab, short bed, 4X2, 5.4l, class-3 tow options
> LT245X16/steel rims, 4W disks + ABS, load-leveling rear suspension.
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

Ken,

The up down adjustment is accessible only with a 4mm
wrench (Snap On makes one), but the side to side is ok with
the socket. If you do buy a wrench get a combo with a 12 pt
star(makes adjusting easier). You could also try partially
removing the light assy and adjusting it then replace it and
see. Doing it this way saves you the hassle of buying a 4mm
wrench for what might be a one shot deal.

Regards

Jean Marc Chartier
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Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 16:47:51 EST
From: JPatte5238 aol.com
Subject: FTE 97up - PSD exhaust

The List

There are two devices on the Exhaust of the PSD, one the these is the muffler
and the other, will I don't know. Does anybody know what this device is? Do
I need it? It can't be a convertor with a diesel can it? Or is it a
resonator?

Lurking from the bushes
John Patterson
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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 18:04:39 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]

If you live in Ohio/Indiana or don't mind traveling for a good deal, Kerns Ford is offering their trucks at invoice. I'm flying out to pick mine up tomorrow. Ordered it in mid-June, it arrived last week. F-250 SD SC V-10 4x4 3.73LS It was a pleasure, after going through autobytel, carpoint, and autovantage and the lowest I got after 1.5 weeks of haggleing was still $1100 over invoice. Thats when I stumbled along this webpage, and the deal was done in a day.

this is the URL: http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.usauto.com/fordtrucks7/SuperCab.htm
phone number is 1-888-8DUALLY.

Good luck

George Passidakis wrote:

> I just joined the list last night.
>
> I am also close to ordering a new Super Duty. In my case it's a 99 F-350 4x4 Crew Cab, SRW PSD Auto
>
> Do the research on options and pricing. I used Edmunds.com and got LOTS of great info. I specd out the exact truck I want and then used AutoByTel.com to locate a dealer in my area. The next day I had an offer to sell me the truck for $1500.00 over invoice(not sticker price). Not a bad deal compared to what people are paying for these off the street. I have them down to $500 over invoice now and have not even been to the showroom once. A very smooth and easy process. I'll probably go Thursday and close the deal.
>
> Keep in mind, unless you get really lucky and find what you are looking for sitting on a lot, you will probably need to order the truck. They tell me the wait 3-5 months once you order. (ouch)
>
> Good luck,
>
> George
>
> At 11/03/98 11:45 AM, you wrote:
> >hello i am new to the list i currently have a 89 F 150 4x4 but i am soon to
> >buy a new Super duty F250 4x4 x cab w/ 7.3. I am looking for any pointers you
> >guys might have on new truck buy? Oh yea i also have a 93 Mustang Cobra that
> >makes around 800hp.
> >
> >RS
> >== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
> >
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html



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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 15:26:11 -0800
From: George Passidakis
Subject: Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]

Chad,

What did you end up getting? Is is a PSD? What has your experience been with it so far?

Hopefully mine will come in as quick as yours.

George

At 11/03/98 04:26 PM, you wrote:
>Edmund's is a great sight. I got mine for invoice and it took two and a half months to get in. But that was back in April. Congrats on your (almost) purchase!
>
>Chad
>
>George Passidakis wrote:
>
>> I just joined the list last night.
>>
>> I am also close to ordering a new Super Duty. In my case it's a 99 F-350 4x4 Crew Cab, SRW PSD Auto
>>
>> Do the research on options and pricing. I used Edmunds.com and got LOTS of great info. I specd out the exact truck I want and then used AutoByTel.com to locate a dealer in my area. The next day I had an offer to sell me the truck for $1500.00 over invoice(not sticker price). Not a bad deal compared to what people are paying for these off the street. I have them down to $500 over invoice now and have not even been to the showroom once. A very smooth and easy process. I'll probably go Thursday and close the deal.
>>
>> Keep in mind, unless you get really lucky and find what you are looking for sitting on a lot, you will probably need to order the truck. They tell me the wait 3-5 months once you order. (ouch)
>>
>> Good luck,
>>
>> George
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 15:43:12 -0800
From: Alex Peyzner
Subject: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help

I am about to place an order for a '99 F250 CC XLT SWB and I still can't
answer 3 basic questions.

- - should I get a v10 or a v8? (power and mileage considerations here, i
hear the new v8 is out in january?)

- - should I get stick shift or auto transmission (mostly mileage
considerations as well as drivebility)

- - should I get 3.73LSD or 4.10/4.30LSD (I don't completely understand the
consequences of getting one or another, looking for help)

I am looking for suggestions on which way to go.

Some background info and reasoning:
This is my first full size truck, I would use it for everyday commute
(about 40 miles a day) as well as flat-towing my Jeep to off-road locations
and towing a light-duty trailer with a sports car to race tracks. I would
also like to be able to take 4-6 people to go skiing and be able to carry
all the gear -- nothing beats the CC for that. I have never owned a vehicle
with auto tranny but I have been warned that driving a big truck with a
stick is a chore.

Your responses would be greatly appreciated!

- -Alex
'97 Jeep TJ off-road
'93 Rx7 on-road
soon to be add '99 F250 CC XLT SWB...


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Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 19:32:36 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help

Alex Peyzner wrote:

> I am about to place an order for a '99 F250 CC XLT SWB and I still can't
> answer 3 basic questions.
>
> - should I get a v10 or a v8? (power and mileage considerations here, i
> hear the new v8 is out in january?)

The new V-8 is almost as powerful as the V-10, the V-10 should recieve the same
upgrade, though when, is a big question. Mileage is very similar between the
engines, and should not really be a deciding factor. With a load you will
probably get better mileage with the V-10.

>
>
> - should I get stick shift or auto transmission (mostly mileage
> considerations as well as drivebility)

Stick is both more dependable and gets better mileage. I got the stick for
dependability reasons. Do you drive in lots of traffic often, if so, the auto
is your answer. Whoever said driving a truck with a stick is a chore isn't a
true stick person. I havent driven semis, but I've driven 5 ton trucks with a
stick in New York City, and loved it. The clutch on that truck was a bitch to
push, but it had nothing in common with the pickups.

>
>
> - should I get 3.73LSD or 4.10/4.30LSD (I don't completely understand the
> consequences of getting one or another, looking for help)

Limited Slip you should get, it adds traction in slippery conditions, by
driving both wheels, not just one. 3.73 is a highway cruising gear ratio, and
will give you better mileage. 4.10/4.30 is a towing ratio. If you plan on
towing heavy stuff, get this ratio. The weights you sound like you plan on
pulling are medium weights. Have you considered getting the diesel? The best
combination for you would probably be the Powerstroke diesel with the 4.10 LS
and 6 speed stick. Diesel gets better mileage, especially when towing, but has
a high upfront cost. It is also more powerful for towing.

>
>
> I am looking for suggestions on which way to go.
>
> Some background info and reasoning:
> This is my first full size truck, I would use it for everyday commute
> (about 40 miles a day) as well as flat-towing my Jeep to off-road locations
> and towing a light-duty trailer with a sports car to race tracks. I would
> also like to be able to take 4-6 people to go skiing and be able to carry
> all the gear -- nothing beats the CC for that. I have never owned a vehicle
> with auto tranny but I have been warned that driving a big truck with a
> stick is a chore.
>
> Your responses would be greatly appreciated!
>
> -Alex
> '97 Jeep TJ off-road
> '93 Rx7 on-road
> soon to be add '99 F250 CC XLT SWB...
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html



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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 23:15:54 EST
From: LegalImag aol.com
Subject: Re: New Super Duty was[Re: FTE 97up - banks stinger]

If you don't mind traveling or live around Missouri I guarantee this guy will
be the lowest price on any ford truck you buy. I bought my truck from Lou
Bayliff, his number is 314-647-0480. If you dont mind the travel give him a
call.

Hope this helps out new buyers
Scott
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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 3 Nov 1998 23:02:07 -0600
From: scott anderson
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help

>===== Original Message From Alex Peyzner =====
>I am about to place an order for a '99 F250 CC XLT SWB and I still can't
>answer 3 basic questions.
>
>- should I get a v10 or a v8? (power and mileage considerations here, i
>hear the new v8 is out in january?)
>
>- should I get stick shift or auto transmission (mostly mileage
>considerations as well as drivebility)
>
>- should I get 3.73LSD or 4.10/4.30LSD (I don't completely understand the
>consequences of getting one or another, looking for help)
>
>I am looking for suggestions on which way to go.
>
>Some background info and reasoning:
>This is my first full size truck, I would use it for everyday commute
>(about 40 miles a day) as well as flat-towing my Jeep to off-road locations
>and towing a light-duty trailer with a sports car to race tracks. I would
>also like to be able to take 4-6 people to go skiing and be able to carry
>all the gear -- nothing beats the CC for that. I have never owned a vehicle
>with auto tranny but I have been warned that driving a big truck with a
>stick is a chore.
>
>Your responses would be greatly appreciated!
>
>-Alex
>'97 Jeep TJ off-road
>'93 Rx7 on-road
>soon to be add '99 F250 CC XLT SWB...
>
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
I would get the V8. The v10's aren't very good on gas(12 0r 13 mpg) and they
don't have much more power either.

The automatic transmissions are nice, but the stick is cheaper, gets better
gas mileage, costs less to fix, offers more power, and is more fun to drive.
When you have as much torque as the big ford trucks do, you can idle around
easy in town so you are not shifting so much. If you wanted to spend a little
bit more money you could get the best Diesel ever made for a pickup! Trust
me, its well worth it. I have one and so does my dad. They are great! We
haven't had any problems with them at all and they both have 80,000 miles on
them already. My dad is a farmer and he has pulled his tractors out with his
before. If you knew me, you would know that I am not a liar.

I like the lowest gears I can get. The lower the gears the worse your gas
mileage is, but the better your power and acceleration is. I LOVE POWER!!!!!
The higher the gears, the better the gas mileage, but your power will go down.

Scott Anderson


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------------------------------

Date: Tue, 03 Nov 1998 22:01:49 -0800
From: George Passidakis
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: New Super Duty

Todd,

Thanks for the Kerns Ford link. Looks like a real truck dealer.

I'm in San Jose, CA. I have my local dealer to $500.00 over so I'll probably order here.

Have fun with your new truck! Must be a nice feeling.

George

At 11/03/98 06:04 PM, you wrote:
>If you live in Ohio/Indiana or don't mind traveling for a good deal, Kerns Ford is offering their trucks at invoice. I'm flying out to pick mine up tomorrow. Ordered it in mid-June, it arrived last week. F-250 SD SC V-10 4x4 3.73LS It was a pleasure, after going through autobytel, carpoint, and autovantage and the lowest I got after 1.5 weeks of haggleing was still $1100 over invoice. Thats when I stumbled along this webpage, and the deal was done in a day.....

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