97up-list-digest Friday, November 13 1998 Volume 01 : Number 276



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

FTE 97up - Re:3.73 LS vs 4.30 LS w/V-10 Engine
Re: FTE 97up - Re:3.73 LS vs 4.30 LS w/V-10 Engine
Re: FTE 97up - ESOF question
Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch
FTE 97up - Shift points on v10
Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light
FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350
Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350
Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light
Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light
Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350
RE: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350
Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty
Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch
Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch
Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch
FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps
RE: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps
Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty
Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps
FTE 97up - a few comments
FTE 97up - 1999 Superduty Lowering Recall
Re: FTE 97up - 1999 Superduty Lowering Recall
Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps
FTE 97up - Re: Spare Wheel Carrier
FTE 97up - lariat without leather
Re: FTE 97up - Re: Spare Wheel Carrier
Re: FTE 97up - Fwd: Patch?????
FTE 97up - Re: 97up-list-digest
Re: FTE 97up - Shift points on v10
Re: FTE 97up - Shift points on v10
Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light
Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350
Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty
Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps
Re: FTE 97up - Re: 97up-list-digest
FTE 97up - ADMIN: Include topics!
FTE 97up - took delivery and i need a step ladder!

=======================================================================

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 07:00:22 -0500
From: Lee Haefele
Subject: FTE 97up - Re:3.73 LS vs 4.30 LS w/V-10 Engine

Why would you buy a supercharger & worry about 4.30 gears? Gas
mileage? The supercharger will probably cost you $3000+, then you will
have to buy premium fuel for $.25/gal more. Why don't you order the
4.30s, see if that is enough power. If you really want a supercharger,
then it would make it peform better with the 4.30 also. Seems like a
supercharger + towing= short engine life....How many 1/4 mile races does
a dragster engine last?
Lee Haefele
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 07:49:28 EST
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re:3.73 LS vs 4.30 LS w/V-10 Engine

In a message dated 98-11-12 07:12:17 EST, you write:

4.30 is a lot of gear for a supercharged application, most i would use is
4.10, you will end up just spinning your tires with 4.30.

Ross S

Why would you buy a supercharger & worry about 4.30 gears? Gas
mileage? The supercharger will probably cost you $3000+, then you will
have to buy premium fuel for $.25/gal more. Why don't you order the
4.30s, see if that is enough power. If you really want a supercharger,
then it would make it peform better with the 4.30 also. Seems like a
supercharger + towing= short engine life....How many 1/4 mile races does
a dragster engine last?
Lee Haefele >>
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 13:32:44 GMT
From: alannorthstar mindspring.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - ESOF question

On Wed, 11 Nov 1998 10:56:00 -0600, you wrote:

:>=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D Original Message From 97up-list ford-trucks.com =
=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
:>On Tue, 10 Nov 1998 12:25:13 -0600, you wrote:
:>
:>:>=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D Original Message From "Jose A. Fernandez" =

:>:=3D=3D=3D=3D=3D
:>:>Hello,
:>:>
:>:>How do I get a 4x4 SD with ESOF to go into 4xLO without locking the
:>:>front hubs? My interest is in getting the low gearing without having=
to
:>:>constantly adjust to/from {pavement, gravel, dirt}.
:>:>=3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info =
http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
:>:
:>:You can put the 4X4 shifter in 4-Low inside the cab and then keep your=
hubs=20
:in
:>:the "free" position and then you will be in 2-Low. The transfer case =
will=20
:be
:>:in low range, but the front wheels won't be engaged in four-wheel =
drive.
:>:Driving around in 2-Low all of the time will absolutely kill your gas=20
:mileage.
:>: I would suggest swapping your differential gears with some lower =
ones. =20
:This
:>:will still cause your gas mileage to go down, but not near as much as=20
:driving
:>:in 2-Low all of the time will.
:>:
:>:Scott Anderson
:>Hmmmmm. I can't control the hub locking on my Ranger 4x4.
:>When you put it in 4x4 HI or 4x4 LO, the hubs automatically are
:>locked by a vacuum control system.
:>
:>I think the poster wanted to know if there is a way to be in
:>4x4LO without locking those hubs. On my truck, there is no
:>separate control for the hubs.
:>
:>I suppose you could disable that locking system more or less
:>permanently if all you ever want is the low-range gearing. . .
:>
:>Later,
:> Alan
:>=3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info =
http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
:
:
:Have you ever heard of manual hubs? That is what I was referring to. I=
have=20
:had automatic hubs twice before, and they have burnt up half of the =
time. I=20
:would advise against them in a big truck. I'm sure they're all right in=
a=20
:Ranger though.
:
:Scott Anderson
:
Yes, of course I've heard of them. But, from what he said I
assume he DOESN'T have manual hubs, and was wondering if he could
disable the AUTOMATIC locking feature.

Did you read his post, and mine????????

Do you know how he could prevent his hubs from locking when he
turns on 4WDLO?

Later,
Alan
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 08:28:58 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch

The class IV factory hitch looks as good or better than most aftermarket and
is a much better buy. Reece makes a class V hitch that is better but most
people don't need to go this heavy on a bumper hitch. We sell mostly DMI
quick and easy hitches. They are very nice the swivel side to side, toung
in and out, and have a spring loaded mechanism to absorb trailer shock
(Great for farmers who pull anhydrous). This is probably the heaviest duty
(and easiest to use) hitch I've seen, but they cost about $500, so unless
you pull trailers that contain liquid its probably more than you need.

Nathan Bernard
Union Auto, Inc.

- -----Original Message-----
From: Dick Dorff
To: 97up ; f150
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 1998 12:53 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch


>Any thoughts on the quality and value of the factory receiver hitches? It
initially seems the price can't be argued with ($128 for a Class IV on an SD
F250). One hitch-company person said better quality exists aftermarket
(surprise, surprise), for comparable cost. I've seen them in the $150-200
range, slightly higher than factory, but I haven't looked extensively. I
don't anticipate using it much since we plan on 5th-wheeling it, but I could
see the once in a blue moon towing a bobcat on
>trailer (7,500lb ballpark?) from the rental place, or a friends boat or
trailer. I wonder if I should take the opportunity to just get the factory
hitch if it's good enough quality at a good price.
>
>Anybody ever bother to make any comparisons?
>
>Thanks,
>
>Dick Dorff
>99 F250 SD, CC, SB, 4x4, V10, 3.73LS (so far) on order.


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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 06:38:08 -0800
From: Joe Zuk
Subject: FTE 97up - Shift points on v10

I have a V10 auto(4x4) with the 3.73 rear end and my trans shifts from
1st to 2nd around 15-20 and from 2nd to 3rd around 30-35mph. Is this
normal? I would expect the trans to go into 3rd around 25 or so. This
seams to be really killing my city gas mileage since I am in 2nd so
much. So anyone else out there with a V10 and the 3.73 read let me know
when you go from 2nd to 3rd.

Thanks,
Joe
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 09:49:07 -0500
From: Dick_Dorff baynetworks.com (Dick Dorff)
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light

Jeff Richardson wrote:

> The dome lights are cool - why not have 'em come on automagically? :-)

Dome lights, and their automatically turning on and off are cool, but there are
many times where it is desireable to turn them off. The ones that come to
mind are 1) spending the afternoon cleaning the interior where it's helpful to
just leave the doors open the entire time (and not worry about the battery
drain), 2) leaving the doors open all day to air out or dry out the interior,
or 3) leaving doors open to crank tunes to the outside and dedicating any
battery draining to music playing and not illuminating the interior. My '86
Saab's got the three position switches on the trunk light, and the dome light
(pair), and I've used them a countless number of times to force the lights to
be off. I'm very annoyed when vehicles don't have them (like our Bronco II).

Dick Dorff.

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 09:19:27 -0600
From: Mark Usnick
Subject: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

Hello list-

I have a '96 F350 4x4 and am planning to replace it
with a new one before long. One problem with these
big trucks is that they are two tall for many fifth
wheel trailers! I'm guessing that with a flat bed,
the hitch on the fifth wheel can be cranked up higher
to allow for the tall truck, and with no bed sides to
hit the trailer, this problem goes away. I also use
my truck to haul hay, and the flatbed could be stacked
higher/wider. So I think that I want to go with a
flatbed next time.

I picked up a glossy sales brochure at the Ford house,
and they had a picture of a F350 Chassis Cab truck and it
pointed out that it had straight frame rails for mounting
a box. You can also buy a "regular" F350 and choose the
"bed delete" option. So in either case, you get an F350
with no bed.

My question is, what are the differences between these
two trucks?

a) With the straight frame of the Chassis Cab, does
this leave you with less suspension travel since there's
no hump over the axle?

b) Or do they compensate for the lack of a hump by making
the entire frame higher -> a taller truck?

c) Are there axle or spring differences?

d) I'd like as low a bed as possible, are there any
differences in the bed height of these trucks once a
flat bed has been installed?

e) Is one any better suited to installing a flat bed?


TIA for any help!


Mark Usnick
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://users.arn.net/~usnick

'96 Ford F350 4x4
'90 Ford Bronco II
'79 Ford F100
'41 Ford 9N (tractor)

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 10:48:22 EST
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

In a message dated 98-11-12 10:30:47 EST, you write:

from what i hear some have been complaining on the problem and there is a TSB
out on 4x4s to change rear blocks to 4x2 that will cure the problem with
height on fifth wheel/gooseneck.

RS

Hello list-

I have a '96 F350 4x4 and am planning to replace it
with a new one before long. One problem with these
big trucks is that they are two tall for many fifth
wheel trailers! I'm guessing that with a flat bed,
the hitch on the fifth wheel can be cranked up higher
to allow for the tall truck, and with no bed sides to
hit the trailer, this problem goes away. I also use
my truck to haul hay, and the flatbed could be stacked
higher/wider. So I think that I want to go with a
flatbed next time.

I picked up a glossy sales brochure at the Ford house,
and they had a picture of a F350 Chassis Cab truck and it
pointed out that it had straight frame rails for mounting
a box. You can also buy a "regular" F350 and choose the
"bed delete" option. So in either case, you get an F350
with no bed.

My question is, what are the differences between these
two trucks?

a) With the straight frame of the Chassis Cab, does
this leave you with less suspension travel since there's
no hump over the axle?

b) Or do they compensate for the lack of a hump by making
the entire frame higher -> a taller truck?

c) Are there axle or spring differences?

d) I'd like as low a bed as possible, are there any
differences in the bed height of these trucks once a
flat bed has been installed?

e) Is one any better suited to installing a flat bed?


TIA for any help!


Mark Usnick
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://users.arn.net/~usnick
>>
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 16:20:09 GMT
From: alannorthstar mindspring.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light

On Thu, 12 Nov 1998 09:49:07 -0500, you wrote:

:Jeff Richardson wrote:
:
:> The dome lights are cool - why not have 'em come on automagically? :-)
:
:Dome lights, and their automatically turning on and off are cool, but =
there are
:many times where it is desireable to turn them off. The ones that come=
to
:mind are 1) spending the afternoon cleaning the interior where it's =
helpful to
:just leave the doors open the entire time (and not worry about the =
battery
:drain), 2) leaving the doors open all day to air out or dry out the =
interior,
:or 3) leaving doors open to crank tunes to the outside and dedicating =
any
:battery draining to music playing and not illuminating the interior. My=
'86
:Saab's got the three position switches on the trunk light, and the dome =
light
:(pair), and I've used them a countless number of times to force the =
lights to
:be off. I'm very annoyed when vehicles don't have them (like our Bronco=
II).
:
:Dick Dorff.
:
:=3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info =
http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

My 98 Ranger will douse all the interior lights after 45 minutes
of non-activity.

Which kinda seems to mean that you wouldn't do your battery any
harm, if that circuit kicks in.

Later,
Alan
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 10:16:58 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light

All most all new Fords have the battery saver feature that will turn the
dome lights off so they don't drain the battery in any of the listed
situations.

Nathan

- -----Original Message-----
From: Dick Dorff
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Thursday, November 12, 1998 9:06 AM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light


>Jeff Richardson wrote:
>
>> The dome lights are cool - why not have 'em come on automagically? :-)
>
>Dome lights, and their automatically turning on and off are cool, but there
are
>many times where it is desireable to turn them off. The ones that come to
>mind are 1) spending the afternoon cleaning the interior where it's
helpful to
>just leave the doors open the entire time (and not worry about the battery
>drain), 2) leaving the doors open all day to air out or dry out the
interior,
>or 3) leaving doors open to crank tunes to the outside and dedicating any
>battery draining to music playing and not illuminating the interior. My
'86
>Saab's got the three position switches on the trunk light, and the dome
light
>(pair), and I've used them a countless number of times to force the lights
to
>be off. I'm very annoyed when vehicles don't have them (like our Bronco
II).
>
>Dick Dorff.


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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 10:19:12 -0600
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

They make the box delete so people can switch their previous bodies over.
The Chassis cab is the way to go if your buying a new body as the flat frame
rail allows the body to be mounted much closer to the frame and not have all
the spacing to make it level.

Nathan Bernard

- -----Original Message-----
From: RSnovi aol.com
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Thursday, November 12, 1998 10:02 AM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

> Hello list-
>
> I have a '96 F350 4x4 and am planning to replace it
> with a new one before long. One problem with these
> big trucks is that they are two tall for many fifth
> wheel trailers! I'm guessing that with a flat bed,
> the hitch on the fifth wheel can be cranked up higher
> to allow for the tall truck, and with no bed sides to
> hit the trailer, this problem goes away. I also use
> my truck to haul hay, and the flatbed could be stacked
> higher/wider. So I think that I want to go with a
> flatbed next time.
>
> I picked up a glossy sales brochure at the Ford house,
> and they had a picture of a F350 Chassis Cab truck and it
> pointed out that it had straight frame rails for mounting
> a box. You can also buy a "regular" F350 and choose the
> "bed delete" option. So in either case, you get an F350
> with no bed.
>
> My question is, what are the differences between these
> two trucks?
>
> a) With the straight frame of the Chassis Cab, does
> this leave you with less suspension travel since there's
> no hump over the axle?
>
> b) Or do they compensate for the lack of a hump by making
> the entire frame higher -> a taller truck?
>
> c) Are there axle or spring differences?
>
> d) I'd like as low a bed as possible, are there any
> differences in the bed height of these trucks once a
> flat bed has been installed?
>
> e) Is one any better suited to installing a flat bed?
>
>
> TIA for any help!
>
>
> Mark Usnick
> http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://users.arn.net/~usnick
> >>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 11:58:04 -0600
From: scott anderson
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

>===== Original Message From 97up-list ford-trucks.com =====
>In a message dated 98-11-12 10:30:47 EST, you write:
>
>from what i hear some have been complaining on the problem and there is a TSB
>out on 4x4s to change rear blocks to 4x2 that will cure the problem with
>height on fifth wheel/gooseneck.
>
>RS
>
> Hello list-
>
> I have a '96 F350 4x4 and am planning to replace it
> with a new one before long. One problem with these
> big trucks is that they are two tall for many fifth
> wheel trailers! I'm guessing that with a flat bed,
> the hitch on the fifth wheel can be cranked up higher
> to allow for the tall truck, and with no bed sides to
> hit the trailer, this problem goes away. I also use
> my truck to haul hay, and the flatbed could be stacked
> higher/wider. So I think that I want to go with a
> flatbed next time.
>
> I picked up a glossy sales brochure at the Ford house,
> and they had a picture of a F350 Chassis Cab truck and it
> pointed out that it had straight frame rails for mounting
> a box. You can also buy a "regular" F350 and choose the
> "bed delete" option. So in either case, you get an F350
> with no bed.
>
> My question is, what are the differences between these
> two trucks?
>
> a) With the straight frame of the Chassis Cab, does
> this leave you with less suspension travel since there's
> no hump over the axle?
>
> b) Or do they compensate for the lack of a hump by making
> the entire frame higher -> a taller truck?
>
> c) Are there axle or spring differences?
>
> d) I'd like as low a bed as possible, are there any
> differences in the bed height of these trucks once a
> flat bed has been installed?
>
> e) Is one any better suited to installing a flat bed?
>
>
> TIA for any help!
>
>
> Mark Usnick
> http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://users.arn.net/~usnick
> >>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html


You can always buy 4X4 3/4 ton blocks to put in the rear of the truck.
4X4 3/4 ton blocks are 2 inches. The blocks in the rear of a 350 are 4
inches, so it would lower the rear end of the truck two inches. It may not
sound like much, but that will help out a lot.

Scott Anderson


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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 13:35:49 -0500
From: Dick_Dorff baynetworks.com (Dick Dorff)
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty

Charles Abraham wrote:

> I did, on my F250 SD SC V10 3.73LS 4x4. I choose the LT265/75R16E AS OWL (4)
> $238/$280 over its more costly AT counterpart. My reasons were that being the
> same diameter as the stock 235/85/16. (Actually .08" shorter, so does that mean
> my 3.73 is now really a 3.85?)

According to the TireRack effective axle ratio calculator, your new ratio would be
3.74. (Original Tire Diameter / New Tire Diameter) X Original Axle Ratio = Effective
Axle Ratio) That is, if I'm doing this correctly. Tire diameter being 16" plus
2*(tire height = aspect ratio % * tire width, and then converted from mm. to in.).
Correct?

One small reason I so far haven't decided to change the 3.73 to a 4.30 (w/ V10) is
that when I replace tires, it'll probably be to a lower profile so the truck is just
that much, well, less tall, and gives a bit more clearance in the garage door opening
than the 1.5 - 2" I'm currently anticipating enjoying. Going from a 235/85 to a
235/75 would drop overall height by ~ 1.6" and provide an effective axle ratio of
3.96.

I know the smaller tires might not look as good on the truck, but I'm trying not to
care much about looks. I will need to ensure that the tires of the desired load
range, "E"?, come in the smaller profile (235/75). Will probably kick around slight
variations (245/70) on the new tire size theme to see if something else might look
better, but still be lower than stock and of correct load rating.

Dick Dorff

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 14:14:34 -0500
From: wvernon
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch

Really? How? Thanks for the advice.

Chad Royse wrote:
>
> It looks like you are using Communicator 4.05. You can set it to wrap long lines to help end your frustration of those who haven't set margins.
>
> Trying to help,
> Chad
>
> wvernon wrote:
>
> > Uhhh....Could some of you folks please learn how to set your margins?
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 14:15:22 -0500
From: wvernon
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch

Whoops, never mind. I figured it out. Thanks again.

Chad Royse wrote:
>
> It looks like you are using Communicator 4.05. You can set it to wrap long lines to help end your frustration of those who haven't set margins.
>
> Trying to help,
> Chad
>
> wvernon wrote:
>
> > Uhhh....Could some of you folks please learn how to set your margins?
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 14:17:19 -0500
From: wvernon
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Factory Rx-er Hitch

Thanks.

Scot Evanson wrote:
>
> or Netscape (others are similar), simply go to "view" and
> select "wrap long lines.
>
> The problem lies in _your_ view (window), not the senders
> messg.
>
> SAE
> >
> > wvernon wrote:
> > >
> > > Uhhh....Could some of you folks please learn how to set your margins?
> > >
> > > Dick Dorff wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Any thoughts on the quality and value of the factory receiver hitches? It initially seems the price can't be argued with ($128 for a Class IV on an SD F250). One hitch-company person said better quality exists aftermarket (surprise, surprise), for comparable cost. I've seen them in the $150-200 range, slightly higher than factory, but I haven't looked extensively. I don't anticipate using it much since we plan on 5th-wheeling it, but I could see the once in a blue moon towing a bobcat on
> > > > trailer (7,500lb ballpark?) from the rental place, or a friends boat or trailer. I wonder if I should take the opportunity to just get the factory hitch if it's good enough quality at a good price.
> > > >
> > > > Anybody ever bother to make any comparisons?
> > > >
> > > > Thanks,
> > > >
> > > > Dick Dorff
> > > > 99 F250 SD, CC, SB, 4x4, V10, 3.73LS (so far) on order.
> > > >
> > > > == 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
> > == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 12:45:51 -0700
From: "Brandt Dennehy"
Subject: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps

I currently have the factory 235/85 tires on my Superduty V-10, but was
considering going to the 265/75 BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. I don't know
if it is worth worrying about or not, but the wider tires would probably
kick up more gravel onto the side of my pickup. I asked the dealership
about mudflaps, but they said Ford hasn't came out with any to fit the
Superdutys yet. Wouldn't any mud-flap work, or do they have to be
specifically molded. I just want to avoid all of the chips/scratches in the
paint immediately behind the wheel wells. Anybody get mud-flaps put on?
Any recommendations? Thanks.

- --Brandt

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 14:19:39 -0600
From: scott anderson
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps

>===== Original Message From Brandt Dennehy =====
>I currently have the factory 235/85 tires on my Superduty V-10, but was
>considering going to the 265/75 BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. I don't know
>if it is worth worrying about or not, but the wider tires would probably
>kick up more gravel onto the side of my pickup. I asked the dealership
>about mudflaps, but they said Ford hasn't came out with any to fit the
>Superdutys yet. Wouldn't any mud-flap work, or do they have to be
>specifically molded. I just want to avoid all of the chips/scratches in the
>paint immediately behind the wheel wells. Anybody get mud-flaps put on?
>Any recommendations? Thanks.
>
>--Brandt
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html


Any mud flaps will work. I have some rubber ones on mine now. Plastic
ones may look better but if you accidentally hit something or get them caked
with mud, they will break. Rubber won't, they will just bend. You can get
them at any Pickup Palace, Parts America or Auto Zone store. Any place that
sells parts and upholstrey products should have them.

Scott Anderson


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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 13:32:46 -0600
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty

Dick,

Getting this behemoth into my garage (when it ever comes) is something I've been thinking
about too.The estimated clearance is about the same as your's. But one concern of mine is
ice and compacted snow buildup on the concrete apron leading into the garage bay. I can
see myself overlooking that added height and oops!
Case and point: My daughter recently lost power to her home due to a storm, and had to
manually open the garage door. Guess what, manually, the door doesn't stay open as far.
So to get her '98 Expedition out (17" tires and luggage rack), she had to prop up the
door with a stick. Good thing the truck was still new and she thought to look first
before backing out.

On the tire sizes, I was only kidding about the 3.85 gear ratio. But I'm surprised on how
little play changing to larger diameter tires and its negative side effect on gear ratio,
got from this list. I like your idea of going to a slightly smaller tire. The stock tires
look way out of proportion anyway, so a little further "out" won't be noticed.
Your wise though to stick with the E load rating. I checked the Tire Rack
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.tirerack.com/index.html
and few light truck brands offered the E rating in the sizes you indicated.

Michelin and BF both had a 245/75/16E, which is an inch and a third smaller than the
stock 235/85/16E.

Charles.



Dick Dorff wrote:

> Charles Abraham wrote:
>
> > is my 3.73 now really a 3.85?)

> your new ratio would be
> >3.74.
>
> One small reason I so far haven't decided to change the 3.73 to a 4.30 (w/ V10) is
> that when I replace tires, it'll probably be to a lower profile so the truck is just
> that much, well, less tall, and gives a bit more clearance in the garage door opening
> than the 1.5 - 2" I'm currently anticipating enjoying. Going from a 235/85 to a
> 235/75 would drop overall height by ~ 1.6" and provide an effective axle ratio of
> 3.96.
>
> I know the smaller tires might not look as good on the truck, but I'm trying not to
> care much about looks. I will need to ensure that the tires of the desired load
> range, "E"?, come in the smaller profile (235/75). Will probably kick around slight
> variations (245/70) on the new tire size theme to see if something else might look
> better, but still be lower than stock and of correct load rating.
>
> Dick Dorff
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html



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Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 13:51:15 -0600
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps

Wait just a darn minute, you mean my $30K Super Duty Lariat truck on order
doesn't come with mud flaps!!! And I thought I had thought of everything. Any
more surprises (I know about the rear bumper and spare tire.).

Charles.


scott anderson wrote:

> >===== Original Message From Brandt Dennehy =====
> >I currently have the factory 235/85 tires on my Superduty V-10, but was
> >considering going to the 265/75 BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. I don't know
> >if it is worth worrying about or not, but the wider tires would probably
> >kick up more gravel onto the side of my pickup. I asked the dealership
> >about mudflaps, but they said Ford hasn't came out with any to fit the
> >Superdutys yet. Wouldn't any mud-flap work, or do they have to be
> >specifically molded. I just want to avoid all of the chips/scratches in the
> >paint immediately behind the wheel wells. Anybody get mud-flaps put on?
> >Any recommendations? Thanks.
> >
> >--Brandt
> >
> >== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>
> Any mud flaps will work. I have some rubber ones on mine now. Plastic
> ones may look better but if you accidentally hit something or get them caked
> with mud, they will break. Rubber won't, they will just bend. You can get
> them at any Pickup Palace, Parts America or Auto Zone store. Any place that
> sells parts and upholstrey products should have them.
>
> Scott Anderson
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html



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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 15:26:02 -0600
From: Janster
Subject: FTE 97up - a few comments

Hi Folks,

I just wanted to give a few comments to some posts I had seen. As for
the factory hitch receiver, get it, if for nothing, just the price. You
can't go wrong with a factory installed hitch. I read that Ford may use
lower quality hitches. I can't believe Ford would use an inferior hitch.
ANY company person selling hitches would say theirs are better.
My Superduty has a temperature readout in the overhead console. I read
the description of it in the brochure and made sure it was on the option
list. It works great.
When I ordered my truck I, too, didn't order the spare wheel carrier or
spare tire. Since taking delivery, I ordered the carrier and installed
it, no problems. I'm now looking for a spare tire w/ an "E" load range.
A few places I've been to either didn't have any or wanted a heck of
allot for it. Anybody our there who replaced their tires for bigger
ones, have an LT265/75R16 tire for sale? Feel free to send replies
directly to me.
One last thing; come on folks, don't get offended if someone thinks
you're a little off (key word being little) on a subject or point. We're
not all experts. This is a discussion group and some discussions may
rise degree or two. Take it in stride. Know that at least you got
everybody's attention!

Take care

99 F250 Lariat, 4x4, SC, Towing pkg, Class IV hitch

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 17:39:50 -0500
From: Michael
Subject: FTE 97up - 1999 Superduty Lowering Recall

Hello All,

I have been told that there is a FORD Bulletin or Recall whereby FORD
will install a lowering kit in the rear of 99 Superduty 4x4's to assist
with the hauling of 5th wheels and horse trailers. This replaces the brake
lines, U-Bolts, and shocks and removes the 4 3/4" or so block that sits on
top of the axle.

My question is, has anyone had this modification made or can anyone tell
me what the Bulletin or Recall Number is as my dealer states they don't
know anything about it.

Thanks in Advance,
Michael

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 18:23:07 -0500
From: Dick_Dorff baynetworks.com (Dick Dorff)
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 1999 Superduty Lowering Recall

Michael wrote:

> My question is, has anyone had this modification made or can anyone tell
> me what the Bulletin or Recall Number is as my dealer states they don't
> know anything about it.

One fellow on the a msg board reported having it done,
and having a bad vibration problem result. Last I read, Ford was
still working on correcting the procedure. This was probably a
month or more ago. The msg board's down right now, so an update
can't be obtained. (http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://4x44u.vmag.com/forum/f250-1097/)

Dick Dorff.
Anticipating the same procedure when resolved, and after truck arrives
and 5-er acquired.

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 17:17:22 -0700
From: "Brandt Dennehy"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps

Well, I didn't know about the spare tire....they got me on that one!!! Now
I have to order one in I suppose....it wouldn't be too pleasant getting
stranded without a spare tire.
- -Brandt
- -----Original Message-----
From: Charles Abraham
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Thursday, November 12, 1998 2:12 PM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps


>Wait just a darn minute, you mean my $30K Super Duty Lariat truck on order
>doesn't come with mud flaps!!! And I thought I had thought of everything.
Any
>more surprises (I know about the rear bumper and spare tire.).
>
>Charles.
>
>
>scott anderson wrote:
>
>> >===== Original Message From Brandt Dennehy
=====
>> >I currently have the factory 235/85 tires on my Superduty V-10, but was
>> >considering going to the 265/75 BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. I don't
know
>> >if it is worth worrying about or not, but the wider tires would probably
>> >kick up more gravel onto the side of my pickup. I asked the dealership
>> >about mudflaps, but they said Ford hasn't came out with any to fit the
>> >Superdutys yet. Wouldn't any mud-flap work, or do they have to be
>> >specifically molded. I just want to avoid all of the chips/scratches in
the
>> >paint immediately behind the wheel wells. Anybody get mud-flaps put on?
>> >Any recommendations? Thanks.
>> >
>> >--Brandt
>> >
>> >== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>>
>> Any mud flaps will work. I have some rubber ones on mine now.
Plastic
>> ones may look better but if you accidentally hit something or get them
caked
>> with mud, they will break. Rubber won't, they will just bend. You can
get
>> them at any Pickup Palace, Parts America or Auto Zone store. Any place
that
>> sells parts and upholstrey products should have them.
>>
>> Scott Anderson
>>
>> == 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: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 17:20:33 -0700
From: "Brandt Dennehy"
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: Spare Wheel Carrier

Janster,
How much did the spare wheel carrier cost you?
- -Brandt

- -----Origi
nal Message-----
From: Janster
To: 97 up list
Date: Thursday, November 12, 1998 2:39 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - a few comments


>Hi Folks,
>
>I just wanted to give a few comments to some posts I had seen. As for
>the factory hitch receiver, get it, if for nothing, just the price. You
>can't go wrong with a factory installed hitch. I read that Ford may use
>lower quality hitches. I can't believe Ford would use an inferior hitch.
>ANY company person selling hitches would say theirs are better.
>My Superduty has a temperature readout in the overhead console. I read
>the description of it in the brochure and made sure it was on the option
>list. It works great.
>When I ordered my truck I, too, didn't order the spare wheel carrier or
>spare tire. Since taking delivery, I ordered the carrier and installed
>it, no problems. I'm now looking for a spare tire w/ an "E" load range.
>A few places I've been to either didn't have any or wanted a heck of
>allot for it. Anybody our there who replaced their tires for bigger
>ones, have an LT265/75R16 tire for sale? Feel free to send replies
>directly to me.
>One last thing; come on folks, don't get offended if someone thinks
>you're a little off (key word being little) on a subject or point. We're
>not all experts. This is a discussion group and some discussions may
>rise degree or two. Take it in stride. Know that at least you got
>everybody's attention!
>
>Take care
>
>99 F250 Lariat, 4x4, SC, Towing pkg, Class IV hitch
>
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 17:44:14 -0700
From: "Bruce McLeod"
Subject: FTE 97up - lariat without leather

For those who want a lariat without leather, it is seemingly possible (at
least in Canada). You get a $495 credit from the regular lariat.
I do not know which of these codes is the important one, but here is a list
of the ones you need to bring you an f 350 4x4 supercab,
oxford white truck with tan cloth bench seats in lariat trim
X31, z1, 3, x, 918a (this is the order on my vehicle order confirmation)
I think the 3 and the x bring you the cloth bench, judging by the words next
to these numbers.

Bruce


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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 20:01:52 -0500
From: "William J. Suarez"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re: Spare Wheel Carrier

The cost of the spare is at least $180 (US), and maybe more, depending on
which tire/wheel package you have ordered.

On my order, it's $260 due to premium wheels and LT265 tires.
- ------------------------------------------------
William J. Suarez

- ----------
>From: "Brandt Dennehy"
>To:
>Subject: FTE 97up - Re: Spare Wheel Carrier
>Date: Thu, Nov 12, 1998, 7:20 PM
>

>Janster,
>How much did the spare wheel carrier cost you?
>-Brandt
>
>-----Origi
>nal Message-----
>From: Janster
>To: 97 up list
>Date: Thursday, November 12, 1998 2:39 PM
>Subject: FTE 97up - a few comments
>
>
>>Hi Folks,
>>
>>I just wanted to give a few comments to some posts I had seen. As for
>>the factory hitch receiver, get it, if for nothing, just the price. You
>>can't go wrong with a factory installed hitch. I read that Ford may use
>>lower quality hitches. I can't believe Ford would use an inferior hitch.
>>ANY company person selling hitches would say theirs are better.
>>My Superduty has a temperature readout in the overhead console. I read
>>the description of it in the brochure and made sure it was on the option
>>list. It works great.
>>When I ordered my truck I, too, didn't order the spare wheel carrier or
>>spare tire. Since taking delivery, I ordered the carrier and installed
>>it, no problems. I'm now looking for a spare tire w/ an "E" load range.
>>A few places I've been to either didn't have any or wanted a heck of
>>allot for it. Anybody our there who replaced their tires for bigger
>>ones, have an LT265/75R16 tire for sale? Feel free to send replies
>>directly to me.
>>One last thing; come on folks, don't get offended if someone thinks
>>you're a little off (key word being little) on a subject or point. We're
>>not all experts. This is a discussion group and some discussions may
>>rise degree or two. Take it in stride. Know that at least you got
>>everybody's attention!
>>
>>Take care
>>
>>99 F250 Lariat, 4x4, SC, Towing pkg, Class IV hitch
>>
>>== 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: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 19:56:30 EST
From: CNTRYF150 aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Fwd: Patch?????

i recieved the patch in the mail after i purchased my 98 f150.My question is
when do i get the blanket that my friend got when he bought his truck.The
blanket just showed up one day on a UPS delivery. ,,,,Jim/aka "Pickup Man".
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 19:39:04 -0800
From: Rod Loewen
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: 97up-list-digest

"Todd E"
I've never rebuilt a front differential on my own trucks. In my
experience leaving the hubs locked full time extends the life of
U - joints to approx. 50,000 miles, depending on conditions. You have to
remember that this is in poor conditions, muddy roads, ruts full of
water that blasts everything. In these conditions, the less you turn the
front end the less time the U - joints last. I run 4wd. when needed but
not full time. I repack front wheel bearings every 25,000 miles and do a
big rebuild at 70 to 80,000. This includes all U - joints, usually
shafts because the splines get too sloppy, upper and lower ball joints,
seals, and inside bearings on the front hubs. This is expensive but its
a lot of work to tear down the whole front end so instead of patching
and doing it again before too long, I just do the whole meal deal and
save myself any further downtime. I usually gather up the parts and do
it at night to avoid renting a replacement. It works because in 30 years
of running Ford trucks in some of the worst conditions, the only time
I've had to rent is when I screwed up and hit the ditch or something.
I've had a few towed in, but they were back to work the next day.
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 19:16:50 -0800
From: Ken Peterson
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Shift points on v10

>I have a V10 auto(4x4) with the 3.73 rear end and my trans shifts from
>1st to 2nd around 15-20 and from 2nd to 3rd around 30-35mph. Is this
>normal?

Thoroughly warm tranny, or cool. The auto trannies chage their shift
schedule as the oil warms up -- usually sloshing the torque converter more
until it's warmed up. Check it out after being on a highway for a while.

- ---------------
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.
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Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:18:20 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Shift points on v10

Joe,

The shift points are a little high for the 3.73 so that they won't be too
low for the 4.30 diff. Since ford uses the same transmission, it has to be
some type of compromise. If you could get the 4.10 diff you'd probably get
the best of both worlds. I wouldn't worry about gas mileage, the
transmission shifts at what is determined to be an efficient rpm/speed for
your configuration.

Joe Zuk wrote:

> I have a V10 auto(4x4) with the 3.73 rear end and my trans shifts from
> 1st to 2nd around 15-20 and from 2nd to 3rd around 30-35mph. Is this
> normal? I would expect the trans to go into 3rd around 25 or so. This
> seams to be really killing my city gas mileage since I am in 2nd so
> much. So anyone else out there with a V10 and the 3.73 read let me know
> when you go from 2nd to 3rd.
>
> Thanks,
> Joe
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Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:21:39 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - 99 Ranger/Mazda B2500 dome light

I've heard suggestions that you get a little steel plate, and drill a hole through
the plate and next to the door switch. Screw in the plate thru the hole, and you
can just depress the switch and swivel the plate over the switch to turn the lights
off. Pretty simple and cheap way of doing it.

My 99 SuperDuty actually turns the dome light off after about 5 minutes of the
doors being open.

Dick Dorff wrote:

> Jeff Richardson wrote:
>
> > The dome lights are cool - why not have 'em come on automagically? :-)
>
> Dome lights, and their automatically turning on and off are cool, but there are
> many times where it is desireable to turn them off. The ones that come to
> mind are 1) spending the afternoon cleaning the interior where it's helpful to
> just leave the doors open the entire time (and not worry about the battery
> drain), 2) leaving the doors open all day to air out or dry out the interior,
> or 3) leaving doors open to crank tunes to the outside and dedicating any
> battery draining to music playing and not illuminating the interior. My '86
> Saab's got the three position switches on the trunk light, and the dome light
> (pair), and I've used them a countless number of times to force the lights to
> be off. I'm very annoyed when vehicles don't have them (like our Bronco II).
>
> Dick Dorff.
>
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Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:27:17 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Chassis Cab F350 vs Bed Delete F350

Mark Usnick wrote:

> Hello list-
>
> I have a '96 F350 4x4 and am planning to replace it
> with a new one before long. One problem with these
> big trucks is that they are two tall for many fifth
> wheel trailers! I'm guessing that with a flat bed,
> the hitch on the fifth wheel can be cranked up higher
> to allow for the tall truck, and with no bed sides to
> hit the trailer, this problem goes away. I also use
> my truck to haul hay, and the flatbed could be stacked
> higher/wider. So I think that I want to go with a
> flatbed next time.
>
> I picked up a glossy sales brochure at the Ford house,
> and they had a picture of a F350 Chassis Cab truck and it
> pointed out that it had straight frame rails for mounting
> a box. You can also buy a "regular" F350 and choose the
> "bed delete" option. So in either case, you get an F350
> with no bed.
>
> My question is, what are the differences between these
> two trucks?
>
> a) With the straight frame of the Chassis Cab, does
> this leave you with less suspension travel since there's
> no hump over the axle?
>
> b) Or do they compensate for the lack of a hump by making
> the entire frame higher -> a taller truck?
>
> c) Are there axle or spring differences?
>
> d) I'd like as low a bed as possible, are there any
> differences in the bed height of these trucks once a
> flat bed has been installed?
>
> e) Is one any better suited to installing a flat bed?

The chasis cab comes with the fuel filler pipe running through a hole in the
frame, the Box delete will still have the filler valve over the frame. You
have more choices on frame length on chasis cab. I've also heard that the
frame for the chassis cab is stronger, though I've looked around under the
trucks in the dealer lot, and seen no difference.

>
>
> TIA for any help!
>
> Mark Usnick
> http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://users.arn.net/~usnick
>
> '96 Ford F350 4x4
> '90 Ford Bronco II
> '79 Ford F100
> '41 Ford 9N (tractor)
>
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Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:32:28 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Tire Upgrade Option on Super Duty

Good luck on the garage door, I miss by about 1 inch F-250SD 4x4 265/75 tires. Good thing
my garage is so full of junk that it was never going in anyway. I hope you got the right
measurements.

Charles Abraham wrote:

> Dick,
>
> Getting this behemoth into my garage (when it ever comes) is something I've been thinking
> about too.The estimated clearance is about the same as your's. But one concern of mine is
> ice and compacted snow buildup on the concrete apron leading into the garage bay. I can
> see myself overlooking that added height and oops!
> Case and point: My daughter recently lost power to her home due to a storm, and had to
> manually open the garage door. Guess what, manually, the door doesn't stay open as far.
> So to get her '98 Expedition out (17" tires and luggage rack), she had to prop up the
> door with a stick. Good thing the truck was still new and she thought to look first
> before backing out.
>
> On the tire sizes, I was only kidding about the 3.85 gear ratio. But I'm surprised on how
> little play changing to larger diameter tires and its negative side effect on gear ratio,
> got from this list. I like your idea of going to a slightly smaller tire. The stock tires
> look way out of proportion anyway, so a little further "out" won't be noticed.
> Your wise though to stick with the E load rating. I checked the Tire Rack
> http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.tirerack.com/index.html
> and few light truck brands offered the E rating in the sizes you indicated.
>
> Michelin and BF both had a 245/75/16E, which is an inch and a third smaller than the
> stock 235/85/16E.
>
> Charles.
>
> Dick Dorff wrote:
>
> > Charles Abraham wrote:
> >
> > > is my 3.73 now really a 3.85?)
>
> > your new ratio would be
> > >3.74.
> >
> > One small reason I so far haven't decided to change the 3.73 to a 4.30 (w/ V10) is
> > that when I replace tires, it'll probably be to a lower profile so the truck is just
> > that much, well, less tall, and gives a bit more clearance in the garage door opening
> > than the 1.5 - 2" I'm currently anticipating enjoying. Going from a 235/85 to a
> > 235/75 would drop overall height by ~ 1.6" and provide an effective axle ratio of
> > 3.96.
> >
> > I know the smaller tires might not look as good on the truck, but I'm trying not to
> > care much about looks. I will need to ensure that the tires of the desired load
> > range, "E"?, come in the smaller profile (235/75). Will probably kick around slight
> > variations (245/70) on the new tire size theme to see if something else might look
> > better, but still be lower than stock and of correct load rating.
> >
> > Dick Dorff
> >
> > == 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



== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:36:36 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Wider tires/ mud flaps

One more, if you got the 4x4 don't even think about not getting some type of step.
I'm a young tall man, I can get in no problem, anyone else, and its a little more
difficult. The first time my wife got out of my truck, before I put on
Smittybilts, and she had a fear of falling, as her feet kept going down, and she
still couldn't find the ground. The factory steps are pretty solid, but depending
on your tastes, you can save money and get after market.

Charles Abraham wrote:

> Wait just a darn minute, you mean my $30K Super Duty Lariat truck on order
> doesn't come with mud flaps!!! And I thought I had thought of everything. Any
> more surprises (I know about the rear bumper and spare tire.).
>
> Charles.
>
> scott anderson wrote:
>
> > >===== Original Message From Brandt Dennehy =====
> > >I currently have the factory 235/85 tires on my Superduty V-10, but was
> > >considering going to the 265/75 BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. I don't know
> > >if it is worth worrying about or not, but the wider tires would probably
> > >kick up more gravel onto the side of my pickup. I asked the dealership
> > >about mudflaps, but they said Ford hasn't came out with any to fit the
> > >Superdutys yet. Wouldn't any mud-flap work, or do they have to be
> > >specifically molded. I just want to avoid all of the chips/scratches in the
> > >paint immediately behind the wheel wells. Anybody get mud-flaps put on?
> > >Any recommendations? Thanks.
> > >
> > >--Brandt
> > >
> > >== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
> >
> > Any mud flaps will work. I have some rubber ones on mine now. Plastic
> > ones may look better but if you accidentally hit something or get them caked
> > with mud, they will break. Rubber won't, they will just bend. You can get
> > them at any Pickup Palace, Parts America or Auto Zone store. Any place that
> > sells parts and upholstrey products should have them.
> >
> > Scott Anderson
> >
> > == 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



== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Thu, 12 Nov 1998 23:48:14 -0500
From: "Todd E."
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re: 97up-list-digest

Thats a lot of work, and I won't be beating on my truck as much as you, I'll
be on paved roads 99% of the time. How much life do you think I would get
out of my front end with axles permanently locked vs unlocked, with
occasional locking and circulating? I would be very dissapointed to get
only 50,000 miles under these conditions.

Rod Loewen wrote:

> "Todd E"
> I've never rebuilt a front differential on my own trucks. In my
> experience leaving the hubs locked full time extends the life of
> U - joints to approx. 50,000 miles, depending on conditions. You have to
> remember that this is in poor conditions, muddy roads, ruts full of
> water that blasts everything. In these conditions, the less you turn the
> front end the less time the U - joints last. I run 4wd. when needed but
> not full time. I repack front wheel bearings every 25,000 miles and do a
> big rebuild at 70 to 80,000. This includes all U - joints, usually
> shafts because the splines get too sloppy, upper and lower ball joints,
> seals, and inside bearings on the front hubs. This is expensive but its
> a lot of work to tear down the whole front end so instead of patching....

---

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