97up-list-digest Saturday, November 7 1998 Volume 01 : Number 270



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

Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
FTE 97up - RE:tire size and speedo
FTE 97up - New Tire Diameter - Original Tire Diameter
Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"
FTE 97up - Grill Replacement
Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque
Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"
Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --
Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"
Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"
Re: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque
FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 GPS..
Re: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque
Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"
Re: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help THANK YOU!
Re: FTE 97up - Urgent (Speedo Calibration)
FTE 97up - New '99 F-350 Ordered - How Long to Wait?
FTE 97up - Rear stabilizer bars on trucks
FTE 97up - Banks Trans-Command module
FTE 97up - Cleaning
Re: FTE 97up - New '99 F-350 Ordered - How Long to Wait?

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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 08:15:20 EST
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

In a message dated 98-11-06 00:52:13 EST, you write:



Scott Anderson
>>
Global Positioning System, its off satelites

RS
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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 06:54:24 -0600
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

Todd,

I've already ordered my new truck with a local dealer for $200 over invoice, but I
passed your info on Kerns Ford to a co-worker who is in the process of shopping for
a new Super Duty. Couple questions,

How's turnaround with Kerns Ford, what was your experience? Do you know if their
getting any better delivery times than other dealers on Super Duty's? I've been told
3 to 5 months (with a possible 7 months) wait.

If they sell more, Ford gives them a bigger allotment. But I would think that can
also work against you, i.e., more customers means a longer waiting line.

Also, the "sell at invoice", does that apply also to in stock (on the lot) Super
Duty's?

Thanks,

Charles.

Todd E. wrote:

> Kern's Ford in Ohio, 1-888-8DUALLY will sell at invoice, they also will fly-in,
> meet you half way, or deliver. AS far as GPS, a stop watch and mile markers are
> more accurate.
>
> RSnovi aol.com wrote:
>
> > ok well whatever, i know my GPS doesnt lie, even though they are government
> > satellites. So i kinda trust their measure of tracking while going down the
> > road and compareing that to my speedo, my F 150 has lager than stock so i can
> > justify my claim.
> > I am getting ready to start negotiating price on a '99 F 250, 4x4 ,super cab,
> > 7.3 power poke,auto, tommorrow any one got any tips? I was really impressed
> > with the way it gets down the road, i was at 70 before i knew it. i will be
> > using it to pull my 93 mustang race car that goes 9.62 142.17 in 1/4 mile.
> > The trailer, loaded i have now is about 4500 lbs. I am looking into about a
> > 24' enclosed some time anyone got any suggestions on looking at a enclosed
> > race trailer or a good place?
> >
> > Thanks
> >
> > RS
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>
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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 08:25:31 -0800
From: "Harald"
Subject: FTE 97up - RE:tire size and speedo

I dealt with this on my 1990 F150 that originally had 235 tires. I put
33x12.5 x15's on it and suddenly my gas mileage went way down (or so I
thought). Actually, at 60 mph indicated on the speedo, I was actually doing
almost 70 mph. Could lead to tickets. It also affects the odometer and
this lead to my gas mileage calculations being off. The stock 3.55 gears
were also now effectively like 3.10 gears. Makes the truck a dog for
acceleration and pulling power. I fixed the speedo problem by taking the
truck to Northwest Speedo in Seattle,WA and they recalibrated the speedo for
about $50. I never did change the rear end gears before selling the truck.
I ordered my Super Duty with 4.30 gears in anticipation of installing larger
tires and therefore making the effective gearing closer to the 4.10 that I
would have ordered if it had been an option (can only get 3.73 or 4.30 with
V10). So unless you want to change gears on your new truck, get the 4.30's
if your going to get bigger tires. I've heard 305's will fit if you shim
out the front bumper. I saw a F350 with 35x12.5's on it and it didn't look
modified at all. After all this planning, I decided to stay with stock
tires as the larger ones don't have the load carrying capacity I need for my
Alpenlite slide-in camper. Something to consider if your going to carry max
payload in the bed.

Harald


"Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little
temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety." -Ben Franklin

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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 09:29:06 -0600
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: FTE 97up - New Tire Diameter - Original Tire Diameter

I got this off the Tire Rack's web page, and it appears to answer many of the questions
concerning the affects of increasing the original tire size (diameter) of your new
truck. I thought what was particularly interesting was the affect it had on axle ratio,
something I never considered.

Charles.


Mathematical formulas used to answer commonly asked questions
concerning fitments of light truck tires.

"How much extra ground clearance under the axles will be provided?" or
"How much will it raise the vehicles center of gravity ?"

(New Tire Diameter-Original Tire Diameter) / 2 = Approx. change in ground clearance
and center of gravity.

Example...
(32.5" - 27") / 2 = 2.75" change (increase) in ground clearance and center of gravity.

"How will it affect the acceleration performance of the truck ?"

The answer is that it has the same affect as changing the axle ratio of the truck.

(Original Tire Diameter / New Tire Diameter) X Original Axle Ratio = Effective Axle
Ratio

Example..
(27" / 32.5") X 3.50 Original Axle Ratio = 2.91 Effective Axle Ratio

"How will it affect the performance of the truck on the highway ?"

(Original Tire Diameter / New Tire Diameter) X RPM MPH = New RPM actual MPH

This example is for 55 MPH

Example...
(27" / 32.5") x 2400 RPM = 1985 RPM 55 mph with new tires.

"How far off will the speedometer be ?"

Maybe speeding ticket time !

(New Tire Diameter / Original Tire Diameter) X Indicated Speed = Actual Speed with
new tires.

Example...
(32.5" / 27") X 55MPH = 66.2 MPH Actual Speed with new tires.

"What can I do to regain the performance ?"

Change the differential gears if the truck is equipped with solid axles at a cost of
about
$400 - $500 per axle.

(New Tire Diameter / Original Tire Diameter) X Original Axle Ratio = Required Axle
Ratio.

Example...
(32.5" / 27") X 3.50 Original Axle Ratio = 4.20 Required Axle Ratio.

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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 12:37:30 EST
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

In a message dated 98-11-05 22:05:20 EST, you write:


Kern's Ford in Ohio, 1-888-8DUALLY will sell at invoice, they also will fly-
in,
meet you half way, or deliver. AS far as GPS, a stop watch and mile markers
are
more accurate.
>>
ok well, i d like to see you get a accurate measure off of those,lol! Maybe
if you were a trained professional, like a cop the uses VASCAR. Even those
guys cant get it right, take there ass to court and still cant defend their
own.

RS
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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 14:06:24 -0500
From: "Pierre Smith"
Subject: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"

For Nathan or anybody who know how dealers operate:

I've found a local dealership (www.invoiceorless.com) that will sell me an
Expedition at $100 under invoice. Sounds like a good deal to me except
they are $282 above invoice pricing (using KBB, Carpoint and Edmunds as a
guide). I found out the dealer adds $12 gas (aren't we splitting hairs
here?) and $270 for FDAF (Ford Dealer Advertising). The salesman claims
this is added to all invoices. What gives? I've never heard of such a
thing.

Another question: I noticed that some of the Eddie Bauer EB's are coming
with Firestone tires. Yuk! Is there any way to know what tires are being
used during a given week (or month, whatever) of a given models assembly?
I would prefer Michelin's or settle for Goodyear's but no Firestone if I
can help it.

Thanks.

Pierre

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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 13:20:35 -0600
From: "Jack B"
Subject: FTE 97up - Grill Replacement

For those that are interested, I have finished updating my web site with the
instructions and pictures for the grill replacement on the 99 F150's. The
instructions are the same for all models 97 and up. However, as most of you
know, the grill is slightly larger as the before and after pictures reflect.

Also, remember that some of the part numbers at the dealerships are NOT
correct. Somehow, Ford used the same part number for 99 as 97/98, but this
is incorrect. If you decide to do what I did be sure the part number for 99
starts with XL or similar. Good Luck!

Follow the garage links at http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://members.aol.com/hjbowell

Jack



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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 14:58:33 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

Global Positioning System. Its a satellite navigation system. A GPS unit can
tell you where you are on the Earth within a few meters.

> Scott Anderson
>
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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 12:59:49 -0700
From: "Brandt Dennehy"
Subject: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque

I have noticed throughout these discussions (about the 3.73 vs. the 4.30
ratios), that a few have noted that the higher RPM's in the 4.30 ratio give
the engines max output. I looked and the V-10's max torque 410 lb-ft is at
2700 rpm while the max horsepower is at about 4250 rpm (275hp).

Everytime I think I understand the difference between what torque and
horsepower, I get confused once again in a day or two. I have heard some
say that torque is what gives the accelleration and horsepower is what keeps
a constant velocity. Does anybody have an easy way of explaining the
difference? Thanks!

Brandt

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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 12:03:43 -0800
From: johny
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"

Here's something Nathan said about FDAF back in August.

"FDAF assessment stands for Ford Dealers Advertising Fund. It is a regional
charge so that different areas can run ads and specials (no charge
bedliners, lower intrest than normal, bigger rebates, etc.) to move the
products that sell (or aren't selling) in their area. This fee varies
slightly ($125 on a 99 F-150 in KC region) by region and by vehicle line.
There is no way to get out of this fee unless you have a fleet ID (have 11
vehicles)."

If you read carefully some of the buying information on edmunds and kbb, they
refer to these charges. On all the vehicles I've bought, if you see the invoice,

you will also note a charge for gas and some related advertising fee.
In the case of gas, the fee is for a few gallons, and the better dealerships
fill
it to full.

They may also throw in a free oil change. I had one dealership even
wash it whenever it went for service. (Unfortunatly this D*dge was washed
way too much by the dealer - 3rd tranny before I sold it and bought a SD F350)

The dealer is probably not jerking you around, at least in this particular area.

hope this helps.

- -john


Pierre Smith wrote:

> For Nathan or anybody who know how dealers operate:
>
> I've found a local dealership (www.invoiceorless.com) that will sell me an
> Expedition at $100 under invoice. Sounds like a good deal to me except
> they are $282 above invoice pricing (using KBB, Carpoint and Edmunds as a
> guide). I found out the dealer adds $12 gas (aren't we splitting hairs
> here?) and $270 for FDAF (Ford Dealer Advertising). The salesman claims
> this is added to all invoices. What gives? I've never heard of such a
> thing.
>
> Another question: I noticed that some of the Eddie Bauer EB's are coming
> with Firestone tires. Yuk! Is there any way to know what tires are being
> used during a given week (or month, whatever) of a given models assembly?
> I would prefer Michelin's or settle for Goodyear's but no Firestone if I
> can help it.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Pierre
>
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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 15:12:40 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

My truck took 4 1/2 months to get, I ordered the limited slip 3.73 axle, which is or at
least was one thing that will slow you down. Kern's has a big allotment, but I don't
think it will improve the wait. They advertise to have the lowest price in the country,
regardless of whether you order or get it off the lot. They had quite a few on the lot
when I was there, so its worth looking into.

The actual purchasing experience was the best I've had yet. I called, the salesman, and
he said I'll give it to you at invoice, absolutely no haggleing involved. I picked out
the options I wanted, put $500 on my credit card for a deposit, and that was it. They
called me when the truck came in, I flew out, they picked me up at the airport, gave me
lunch, a hat, and a deck of Ford cards. Salesman ran me through the warranty, and truck
information, signed some paperwork, and the whole deal was done in 1/2 hour tops. They
didn't even bother trying to sell me extended warranties and other aftermarket crap. If
I wanted it, it was available, but no pressure.

I had sworn to never buy a new car in the past, but Kern's was as pleasant as it gets,
probably similar to Saturn, except you don't get ripped off like you do at Saturn.
Obviously I am recommending Kern's, it was a pleasure.

Charles Abraham wrote:

> Todd,
>
> I've already ordered my new truck with a local dealer for $200 over invoice, but I
> passed your info on Kerns Ford to a co-worker who is in the process of shopping for
> a new Super Duty. Couple questions,
>
> How's turnaround with Kerns Ford, what was your experience? Do you know if their
> getting any better delivery times than other dealers on Super Duty's? I've been told
> 3 to 5 months (with a possible 7 months) wait.
>
> If they sell more, Ford gives them a bigger allotment. But I would think that can
> also work against you, i.e., more customers means a longer waiting line.
>
> Also, the "sell at invoice", does that apply also to in stock (on the lot) Super
> Duty's?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Charles.
>
> Todd E. wrote:
>
> > Kern's Ford in Ohio, 1-888-8DUALLY will sell at invoice, they also will fly-in,
> > meet you half way, or deliver. AS far as GPS, a stop watch and mile markers are
> > more accurate.
> >
>



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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 15:22:01 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 --

Ok I'll explain it to you so you can understand it. First get a stopwatch, second
get on a highway that has milemarkers. Find a straight flat stretch of highway,
set the cruise to 60 mph, and start the stop watch as you pass one mile marker,
and stop the watch at the next milemarker. It should have taken you 60 seconds to
go 1 mile with the speedo set at 60. Keep in mind that some stock speedos are up
to 3 mph faster than reality. Using this method, you can calculate actual speed
you travelling at.

I used this method on an old Buick, after I put in a tranny from the junkyard. I
calculated that when the speedo said 60 mph, I was doing 72 mph. I had the
misfortune of having this verified by a police officer using radar about a year
later.

The stopwatch method said 72, as did the radar, I consider that to be accurate
enough. If you can't figure out how to use a stop watch thats your problem.

Using GPS is ok, but its nice to get info from a second source.


> ok well, i d like to see you get a accurate measure off of those,lol! Maybe
> if you were a trained professional, like a cop the uses VASCAR. Even those
> guys cant get it right, take there ass to court and still cant defend their
> own.
>
> RS
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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 15:29:47 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"

Pierre Smith wrote:

> For Nathan or anybody who know how dealers operate:
>
> I've found a local dealership (www.invoiceorless.com) that will sell me an
> Expedition at $100 under invoice. Sounds like a good deal to me except
> they are $282 above invoice pricing (using KBB, Carpoint and Edmunds as a
> guide). I found out the dealer adds $12 gas (aren't we splitting hairs
> here?)

Factory invoice actually includes the price of the gas that they shipped with
the vehicle.

Dealer advertising is the portion of the dealers advertising costs. The
dealership throws this on to all their vehicles. $270 is pretty high for an
advertising cost, but you should expect to be charged something. At Kerns
Ford, they charged $60 for advertising, I didn't complain.


> and $270 for FDAF (Ford Dealer Advertising). The salesman claims
> this is added to all invoices. What gives? I've never heard of such a
> thing.
>
> Another question: I noticed that some of the Eddie Bauer EB's are coming
> with Firestone tires. Yuk! Is there any way to know what tires are being
> used during a given week (or month, whatever) of a given models assembly?
> I would prefer Michelin's or settle for Goodyear's but no Firestone if I
> can help it.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Pierre
>
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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 13:41:16 -0600
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"

Pierre,

My dealer slapped the same extras after negotiating the $200 over invoice I
paid on my new Super Duty. I also understand that the Ford Dealer Advertising
Fee can vary depending on the vehicle and where its coming from.
I just called my dealer and he has two expeditions on his lot, one the FDAF is
$170 and the other $380.

About those Firestone, my daughter recently purchased a new Eddie Bauer
Expedition from the same dealership and her tires were Goodyear; but another
dealer we had stopped at earlier had Firestone. Why the difference I don't
know. My Super Duty only comes with Firestone. But knowing their now owned by
Brigstone helps a little.

Also, Fourwheeler magazine in their review of the Super Duty give them merit
for being real truck tires,

"the tallest, widest E-rated tires offered--265/75R16E Firestone Steeltex
A/Ts. We don't think it makes
much sense to make a rugged truck with a stout four-wheel drive system,
then offer wimpy treads that
won't get you any traction or carry much load."

Charles.

Pierre Smith wrote:

> For Nathan or anybody who know how dealers operate:
>
> I've found a local dealership (www.invoiceorless.com) that will sell me an
> Expedition at $100 under invoice. Sounds like a good deal to me except
> they are $282 above invoice pricing (using KBB, Carpoint and Edmunds as a
> guide). I found out the dealer adds $12 gas (aren't we splitting hairs
> here?) and $270 for FDAF (Ford Dealer Advertising). The salesman claims
> this is added to all invoices. What gives? I've never heard of such a
> thing.
>
> Another question: I noticed that some of the Eddie Bauer EB's are coming
> with Firestone tires. Yuk! Is there any way to know what tires are being
> used during a given week (or month, whatever) of a given models assembly?
> I would prefer Michelin's or settle for Goodyear's but no Firestone if I
> can help it.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Pierre
>
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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 15:54:46 -0500
From: "Keith Veren"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque

- -----Original Message-----
From: Brandt Dennehy
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Friday, November 06, 1998 3:02 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque


>I have noticed throughout these discussions (about the 3.73 vs. the 4.30
>ratios), that a few have noted that the higher RPM's in the 4.30 ratio give
>the engines max output. I looked and the V-10's max torque 410 lb-ft is at
>2700 rpm while the max horsepower is at about 4250 rpm (275hp).
>
>Everytime I think I understand the difference between what torque and
>horsepower, I get confused once again in a day or two. I have heard some
>say that torque is what gives the accelleration and horsepower is what
keeps
>a constant velocity. Does anybody have an easy way of explaining the
>difference? Thanks!
>
>Brandt


One explanation I heard was:
Imagine you are at the top of a building, leaning out a window holding onto
a rope to which a bucket is attached down on the sidewalk.

TORQUE: measures the highest weight that can be in the bucket that you can
still still pull up to your window,
HORSEPOWER: measures how fast you can pull up a bucket of a given weight.

This helped me understand somewhat, but I have yet to truly grasp the
concept for each and how they are inter-related. Anyone else want to give a
try??


Keith

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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 11:59:04 -0900
From: Perry Klein
Subject: FTE 97up - Re:Buying a '99 F250 GPS..

>
>Using GPS is ok, but its nice to get info from a second source.
>

Generally a GPS will reads 2-3 mph in random directions even when you are
not moving.
This could easily be the difference you are seeing.

If you want a little info.. http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.garmin.com/gpsWhatisit.html




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Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 17:35:03 -0500
From: Chad Royse
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - V-10 Horsepower vs. torque

Torque is the amount of rotational force at 1ft from the center of the
flywheel. So at full throttle and at 2700 RPM there is 410lbs of force at one
foot from the center of the flywheel. HP is the rate at which you use that
force. The actual formula is: HP=Torque x RPM
---------------
5252

Don't ask me where the 5252 comes from. All I know is it has something to do
with being a rotational force and p (Pi).

I new there was a reason I never returned that Modern Physics book!

Chad

Brandt Dennehy wrote:

> I have noticed throughout these discussions (about the 3.73 vs. the 4.30
> ratios), that a few have noted that the higher RPM's in the 4.30 ratio give
> the engines max output. I looked and the V-10's max torque 410 lb-ft is at
> 2700 rpm while the max horsepower is at about 4250 rpm (275hp).
>
> Everytime I think I understand the difference between what torque and
> horsepower, I get confused once again in a day or two. I have heard some
> say that torque is what gives the accelleration and horsepower is what keeps
> a constant velocity. Does anybody have an easy way of explaining the
> difference? Thanks!
>
> Brandt
>
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Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 17:04:51 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"

Dealers have no choice on what kind of tires come on a vehicle, It looks
like Expeditions with 17" wheels are going to get Firestones (last year it
was Goodyear, I think they were the only ones ready to sell 17" tires in
numbers). As for the additional price that sounds realistic for invoice.
It makes me mad that none of the pricing lists mention this but it is
included on the invoice from the factory. As for the under invoice sales
tricks I'd watch for the Dealer advertising fund, undercoating, DOC fees,
and who knows what the latest scam is (it doesn't take a lot of these to get
the price way up). So people know I have DEALERS calling me offering $400
over invoice, so I'd be suprised to see anyone selling them for less (I sell
them for $400 over, but not to other dealers because that would hurt my
sales history and therefore cut availability.

Nathan Bernard
Union Auto, Inc.
Union, IA 50258

- -----Original Message-----
From: Pierre Smith
To: 97up-list-digest ford-trucks.com
Date: Friday, November 06, 1998 1:27 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - "Invoice Pricing"


>For Nathan or anybody who know how dealers operate:
>
>I've found a local dealership (www.invoiceorless.com) that will sell me an
>Expedition at $100 under invoice. Sounds like a good deal to me except
>they are $282 above invoice pricing (using KBB, Carpoint and Edmunds as a
>guide). I found out the dealer adds $12 gas (aren't we splitting hairs
>here?) and $270 for FDAF (Ford Dealer Advertising). The salesman claims
>this is added to all invoices. What gives? I've never heard of such a
>thing.
>
>Another question: I noticed that some of the Eddie Bauer EB's are coming
>with Firestone tires. Yuk! Is there any way to know what tires are being
>used during a given week (or month, whatever) of a given models assembly?
>I would prefer Michelin's or settle for Goodyear's but no Firestone if I
>can help it.
>
>Thanks.
>
>Pierre
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 17:05:56 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help THANK YOU!

shift on the fly is readily available and shouldn't pose any problems.

Nathan

- -----Original Message-----
From: Alex Peyzner
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Thursday, November 05, 1998 8:04 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - Buying a '99 F250 -- need help THANK YOU!


>I would like to thank everyone who responded to my original post. Your
>input has been very valuable. I can't say that I now know which way to go,
>but at least I have more data points to reference.
>
>I have pretty much decided on a stick shift but I am still debating between
>v10 and v8. It would have surely helped knowing when the new v8 would come
>out, any ideas? I called Ford Customer Care and they don't know. I have
>driven the Diesel and decided against it for the reasons of cost (I don't
>drive that much), accessibility of fuel, and noise. I also don't plan on
>towing very heavy loads, about 5,500lbs max.
>
>One other question I have has to do with the Electronic shift-on-the-fly
>option. I have heard of a lot of problems people were having and someone
>told me that this option is still not available from Ford. Can someone
>confirm that? What are the 4x4 options otherwise? I have never used manual
>hubs, are they a pain to deal with or are they pretty simple? I am
>concerned as my SO might be driving the truck at times and let's just say
>she is not very mechanically inclined. A push of a button is acceptable,
>but anything more complicated requires a phone call to the home base or
>on-line instructions :)
>
>As usual, your responses are greatly appreciated.
>
>-Alex
>
>
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 06 Nov 1998 16:04:40 -0800
From: Dave Conde
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Urgent (Speedo Calibration)

Rob & all....
You CAN adjust your speedo to a new tire size. Take a look at:

http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.abol.com/.query.tips.forddieselmain.Speedo~20Calibration

Ford was thinkin' on this one... very cool. BTW, I don't know
at what size it starts, but larger tires DO start to affect the
rather silly mechanical rendition of anti-lock that Ford puts on
the rear end. I realize mine is an extreme example, but the
38/15.5R16.5 Cepeks on my '95 Crew-cab PSD have rendered the
anti-lock basically ineffective. No sweat. These tire have BIG
contact patches :o).

Dave Conde


------------------------------
>
> Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 01:47:27 -0800
> From: Rob Bryan
> Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Urgent
>
> At 4:29 PM -0600 11/05/98, Union Auto wrote:
> >The only thing I'd worry about is the speedometer. The ABS may not work
> >perfectly either. The dealer can recalibrate for the bigger tires. I'm not
> >sure for Super Duty's, but on other vehicles you could only recalibrate 3
> >times. Also the ABS has to be recalibrated.
> >
> >Nathan Bernard
>
> Naah...The ABS will be fine. It could care less the size of the tire, as
> long as all 4 are the same size. The ABS system works by comparing the
> speeds of each wheel with the others. If one is decelerating faster than
> the others or has a speed that is significantly less, the ABS processor
> senses that that wheel is locked and modulates the pressure to that wheel.
> In doing this it could care less what the tire size is.
>
> - -Rob-
>
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 21:21:34 -0500
From: "Keith Veren"
Subject: FTE 97up - New '99 F-350 Ordered - How Long to Wait?

This is my first post to this group. I am a long-standing member of the
Expedition Mailing List since I have a '98 XLT / 5.4L / 3.73 LS / etc.
Expedition. Anyway, in early October I "speced-out" and ordered a '99 F-350
Super Duty, SuperCab, Long Wheel Base (8' bed), Single Rear Wheels, V-10
6.8L Gas Engine, 3.73 Limited Slip, Snow-Plow Package and just about all the
other goodies (power trailer-tow mirrors, captain's chairs, lights,
trailer-tow package, off-road package, etc.). My questions are:

1. Is the V-10 / 3.73 limited slip rear the way to go for general use,
light snow plowing (my and my family's driveways) and infrequent but
moderately-heavy (7500 - 9000 lbs.) towing??

2. My dealer told me that the F-350SD w/ V-10s are "backed-up" and that the
factories cannot build then fast enough. They said my order might take 3
months or so before my order is "pulled" to be built. Is this normal for
the truck I specified when ordered in early October?? [Acton Ford in
Concord, Massachusetts].

3. May I still change my order and not affect my place in line?? My dealer
says he thinks I can, but is not totally sure.

4. I asked my dealer if it is possible to call someone at Ford to get a
better idea as to when my truck will get pulled for building and he said it
cannot be done as far as he knows...is this so??? Is there any way to
expedite my order??? (my dealer said he ordered it using the
highest-priority code in the computerized order system).

5. This is just a philosophical question..why are practically all the
Supercabs I see on the lot "short-beds"?? I asked my dealer and he said
people who buy "off-the-lot" always buy SuperCabs with short-beds (6.5'
instead of 8' beds), but people who order SuperCabs (and even CrewCabs)
always seem to get the "long-bed"?? Doesn't a short-bed significantly
reduce the usefulness of a pickup since many typical items (e.g., sheets of
plywood) are 8-feet long)?? Or is the longer wheelbase of a SuperCab w/8"
bed a real hassle to drive/park??

Thank you all in advance, I just want to get the best pick-up with the
optimum specifications for my uses and not have to wait 6 months to get it!!



Keith

NOTE: This is my 3rd attempt to post, I apologize if more than one copy of
this gets posted!

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

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 20:08:58 -0800
From: Ken Peterson
Subject: FTE 97up - Rear stabilizer bars on trucks

Have any of you folks added, or have experience with, a rear stabilizer bar
on an F-series truck?

I see them on Expeditions and certain Dodge trucks, and value the stability
it brings to my Subaru wagon. I'm impressed with how well this monster
handles on wind-y roads and can't help but wonder how a rear bar would
improve the steering response. With a future camper aboard, I think it
might be a considerable asset.

A friend has opined that it would result in excessive inner-rear wheel lift
on brisk turns. My rig's not completely unloaded: it's a super-cab,
short-bed with a heavy canopy. The rear axle carries more than you might
imagine: 2600# rear, 3000# front.

Anybody tried it -- or regretted it?

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

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

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 20:12:47 -0800
From: Ken Peterson
Subject: FTE 97up - Banks Trans-Command module

Anyone tried this? Supposed to firm-up the shifting of the E4OD and similar
trannies. I wonder if it does more than just increase the control pressure
for the transmission.

I can't say I'm unhappy with the way my 1998 E4OD works with this F-250,
especially with the new synthetic ATF (Red Line) I just put in. But, hey,
tinkering has its own rewards, eh? And there is that camper in my future .
. .

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

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

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998 23:50:34 EST
From: Ericrizner aol.com
Subject: FTE 97up - Cleaning

Just bought my first new vehicle and I was fortunate enough for it to be a
1999 F150 Lariat. I am a nut about keeping my vehicles clean. I was
wondering if any of you can tell me if there is any problem with washing under
the hood with a hose or if that is a no no and I should avoid certain
electronics. Thanks for your help.
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Sat, 07 Nov 1998 00:21:04 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - New '99 F-350 Ordered - How Long to Wait?

Keith Veren wrote:

> This is my first post to this group. I am a long-standing member of the
> Expedition Mailing List since I have a '98 XLT / 5.4L / 3.73 LS / etc.
> Expedition. Anyway, in early October I "speced-out" and ordered a '99 F-350
> Super Duty, SuperCab, Long Wheel Base (8' bed), Single Rear Wheels, V-10
> 6.8L Gas Engine, 3.73 Limited Slip, Snow-Plow Package and just about all the
> other goodies (power trailer-tow mirrors, captain's chairs, lights,
> trailer-tow package, off-road package, etc.). My questions are:
>
> 1. Is the V-10 / 3.73 limited slip rear the way to go for general use,
> light snow plowing (my and my family's driveways) and infrequent but
> moderately-heavy (7500 - 9000 lbs.) towing??

The towing part asks for a 4.30 I have the 3.73, for similar use as you, and I
would say take a shot at the 4.30. Only problem could be reduced gas mileage

>
>
> 2. My dealer told me that the F-350SD w/ V-10s are "backed-up" and that the
> factories cannot build then fast enough. They said my order might take 3
> months or so before my order is "pulled" to be built. Is this normal for
> the truck I specified when ordered in early October?? [Acton Ford in
> Concord, Massachusetts].
>
> 3. May I still change my order and not affect my place in line?? My dealer
> says he thinks I can, but is not totally sure.

Yes, but that doesn't mean you'll get it in the same amount of time, as some new
added option may take longer than others, or your new change could make it even
quicker, if you eliminated one of the long wait items.

>
>
> 4. I asked my dealer if it is possible to call someone at Ford to get a
> better idea as to when my truck will get pulled for building and he said it
> cannot be done as far as he knows...is this so??? Is there any way to
> expedite my order??? (my dealer said he ordered it using the....

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