97up-list-digest Saturday, May 29 1999 Volume 02 : Number 143



=======================================================================
Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 1997 and Newer Trucks and Vans
Visit our web site: http://www.ford-trucks.com/
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
To unsubscribe, send email to:
majordomo ford-trucks.com
with the words "unsubscribe 97up-list-digest" in the body of the
message.
=======================================================================
In this issue:

FTE 97up - Valve Clatter
FTE 97up - Recall: Valve Clatter
FTE 97up - Valve Clatter
FTE 97up - Superduty problems
RE: FTE 97up - My 351
[none]
RE: FTE 97up - Superduty problems, 351 Windsor
FTE 97up - Side Markers/SIGNAL MIRRORs
RE: FTE 97up - opinions about the power sliding rear window
FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners
Re: FTE 97up - Superduty problems, 351 Windsor
Re: FTE 97up - gear question.. was psd straight exaust.
FTE 97up - Re: Superduty problems so far
Re: FTE 97up - Re: Superduty problems so far (GEM)
RE: FTE 97up - discussion on truck safety vs "tin box's"
FTE 97up - So what is a modular engine anyway
Re: FTE 97up - So what is a modular engine anyway
Re: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners
FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners floating?
Re: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners floating?

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 06:04:10 -0500
From: "Allemand, Andre'"
Subject: FTE 97up - Valve Clatter

[Andre' Allemand EMT-P]
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 06:04:59 -0500
From: "Allemand, Andre'"
Subject: FTE 97up - Recall: Valve Clatter

Allemand, Andre' would like to recall the message, "Valve Clatter".
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 06:09:49 -0500
From: "Allemand, Andre'"
Subject: FTE 97up - Valve Clatter

Has anyone experienced a "valve clatter" with the 6 cyl. engine. This seems
to happen when I accelerate while towing my camper or passing a vehicle. I
have installed a "cat back" exhaust system and added the hypertech module (a
piece of junk if I might add, very dissatisfied) the "valve clatter" was
there before and after the installation of the parts. I have heard every
excuse from the dealer ranging from bad gas to "Ford engines just do that",
I also noticed a large amount of carbon buildup around the exhaust, really
getting frustrated with this truck.....!
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 07:33:42 -0500
From: Janster
Subject: FTE 97up - Superduty problems

Hi Folks,

Apart from my wife wanting to drive the truck, I haven't experienced any
problems w/ my '99 F250 Superduty 4x4, SC. The only slight problem is
an annoying low-level rumble coming from the drivers side front axle.
Its not there all the time. It sounds like when tie rods go bad and the
steering starts to loosen up. I looked things over and didn't find/see
anything. I noticed it around 2600. I currently got 2900 and it still
only happens every now and then. Anyone have this happen to them yet?

Jan

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 09:00:25 -0400
From: "D'Amelio, Stephen M."
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - My 351

An Edelbrock intake cost about a hundred, the cam
about one hundred fifty. Then you would want new lifters
and probably valve springs too. A three angle valve job
will run a couple more hundred. A lot of your cost will
depend upon how much of the labor you can do yourself.
There used to be a good book, "How to build a small
block Ford" or something like that. It will tell you a lot
about what you may, or may not, be able to do yourself.

Good luck!

Steve D'Amelio
Systems Administrator
CVS/Pharmacy
1 CVS Drive
Woonsocket, RI 02895
401-765-1500 x3351 FAX 401-762-4607
mailto:smdamelio cvs.com http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.cvs.com

> ----------
> From: BigFords1 aol.com[SMTP:BigFords1 aol.com]
> Reply To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
> Sent: Thursday, May 27, 1999 6:39 PM
> To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
> Subject: Re: FTE 97up - My 351
>
> '84, carburated, i think the gear ratio is 3.05. How much would an
> Edelbrock
> intake and cam change cost?
> == 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 06:19:10 PDT
From: "Scott Matus"
Subject: [none]

I have had a Locking Hub LOCK permanently. That is all so far.

Scott.

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

Date: Thu, 27 May 1999 17:35:40 EDT
From: BIGDAAG aol.com
Subject: FTE 97up - help with driveline noise and dealer

Hi everyone, I need some help with a noise I have in my trucks front end.
It's a 99 superduty 250 v-10 with an auto trans. What happens, is when I
shift into reverse or drive, there is a loud CLUNK in the front end when the
tranny
engages
I took it in to the dealer and he said it was because I put a lift kit
on the truck. When I told him the noise was there even before the lift, and
that his service department installed the lift, his story changed. Now he
was telling me this is normal and not to worry. Well, I am worried. Has
anyone else had this problem, or Know what might be causing it?


_______________________________________________________________
Get Free Email and Do More On The Web. Visit http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.msn.com
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 08:26:44 -0500
From: George Rigney
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Superduty problems, 351 Windsor

My wife's truck has something similar. There's a rumbling/popping noise
from the front right wheel well upon making a left turn on uneven ground
(such as pulling into a driveway or parking lot). Some have suggested leaf
spring problems, but it's a 2WD and doesn't have them on the front. I've
looked very carefully underneath, and I can't see what's causing it. There
doesn't appear to be any parts interfering, and the ball joints look like
they have enough grease. We haven't brought it in because we've been
hauling stuff with the truck almost every day. By next weekend we should be
able to do something about it. I'll let you know how it turns out.

On a side note, I have a 351 Windsor in my car, with a stock double-barrel
carb and no modifications/performance enhancements. From a stop it's
awesome. At highway speeds, it's creepy going from 45 up and if I push it I
get valve chatter. I probably need new springs, but I'm not going to crack
it open until I buy a new camshaft. We should probably move this discussion
to another forum, since I think all the 97-up trucks use Tritons or PSDs.

Regards,
George

1974 Gran Torino Elite 351W



- -----Original Message-----
From: Janster [mailto:dziadul bigfoot.com]
Sent: Friday, May 28, 1999 7:34 AM
To: 97 up list
Subject: FTE 97up - Superduty problems


Hi Folks,

Apart from my wife wanting to drive the truck, I haven't experienced any
problems w/ my '99 F250 Superduty 4x4, SC. The only slight problem is
an annoying low-level rumble coming from the drivers side front axle.
Its not there all the time. It sounds like when tie rods go bad and the
steering starts to loosen up. I looked things over and didn't find/see
anything. I noticed it around 2600. I currently got 2900 and it still
only happens every now and then. Anyone have this happen to them yet?

Jan

== 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 06:31:17 PDT
From: "Scott Matus"
Subject: FTE 97up - Side Markers/SIGNAL MIRRORs

Do you think that the reason they are now available ia that the Excursion
will have them on the upper line EB or Limited? I installed the side fender
markers markers from a SAAB 9000 just below the F350 emblem. Total cost $20
from the junk yard. It only took about 3 hours to install I think that the
Saab side markers will do a better job because they illiminate in 180
degrees and have a bright spot about 30 degrees off the rear of the truck.
I knew I needed these right away when I learned that my truck was over 23
feet long. Those short wheel base tin cans would forget that they are on
the side of my truck before reaching the front of it.

Scott.
_________________________

Date: Thu, 27 May 1999 18:37:25 -0700
From: "Neil Plocek"
Subject: FTE 97up - SIGNAL MIRROR FOR SUPER DUTY

Good news guys....Muth Mirror Systems just sent me an E-mail regarding
signal mirrors for the Super Duty trucks. I am including the note from them
so you may contact them if you are interested.

Signal Mirrors are now available for the

FORD SUPER DUTY

We at Muth Mirror Systems are happy to announce the eagerly anticipated
availability of a Signal Mirror retrofit kit for the following vehicles:

1998-2000 F-250/350 Ford Super Duty, Aero Style Mirrors

1998-2000 F-250/350 Ford Super Duty, Trailer Tow Style Mirrors

Each retrofit kit includes the left- and right-hand mirror glass
replacements, wiring and instructions. A few things to note: The Aero style
mirror utilizes flat glass in both the left and right hand mirrors (just as
they come from the factory). Also, when completing an installation on the
Trailer Tow style, only the large, upper flat glass is replaced. The lower,
small convex glass remains unchanged.

The retail cost of this exciting retrofit kit is only $199.00!

When placing an order, we accept MasterCard or Visa. Shipping and handling
is $10.00. Please call 1-800-844-6616 to speak with a Muth Mirror Systems
sales representative.

We recommend a professional installation done by one of our preferred
installers. Please email us your area and zip code, or call our 1-800 number
for an installer in your area!

If you have any further questions or comments, please call 1-800-844-6616.

Have a great day! We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Sincerely,



Katie Meznarich
Sales Specialist

Email: kmeznarich kwmuth.com

____________________________________________________________________________
________

MUTH MIRROR SYSTEMS
4221 High Tech Lane, Sheboygan, WI 53083 Phone: 800-844-6616 Fax:
920-451-2001
Website: www.kwmuth.com Email: sales kwmuth.com


_______________________________________________________________
Get Free Email and Do More On The Web. Visit http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.msn.com
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 09:11:25 -0500
From: "David Moore"
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - opinions about the power sliding rear window

>From CR Lawrence, works great, paid 275$.

David

- -----Original Message-----
From: owner-97up-list ford-trucks.com
[mailto:owner-97up-list ford-trucks.com]On Behalf Of zman
Sent: Friday, May 28, 1999 2:49 AM
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Subject: FTE 97up - opinions about the power sliding rear window


anybody who put one of these in their SD, who makes it, and what do you
think of it?


thanks
joe
== 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 07:49:41 -0700
From: Bill Splaine
Subject: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners

I can't speak from full experience yet...... I'm waiting for my '00 PSD.
However, what I know, Drop in liners can be noisey and deteriorate after
time in the sun. They crack, warp and simply get a bad case of the UGLIES
in short order. One of the worst problems is the condensation that
accumulates under them and causes bed rust. I hated that after buying
these things twice thinking they would protect the bed. The first time I
thought it was a fluke and didn't investigate further... the second time I
learned.

I have researched (talked to lots of owners and applicators) of the two
most popular spray-ins (Rhino and Line-X). One will not have any of the
drawbacks seen with the drop-in's other then a slight greying of the liner
after time. This can temporarily be fixed up with Armoral or something
more to your liking. The liner looks great and doesn't tear up or gouge.
If heavy things are placed in the bed the liner may develop a dent/dimple
or whatever.. however, the problem is essentially self healing within a few
moments. ie it returns to it's original shape.

Differences between Rhino and Line-X.... I'm going to Line-X because it is
harder. I saw a couple of demo's where a guy rubbed his Line-X with a
sample he got from the Rhino dealer... the Rhino began to be abraided away.
It looked like using a gum rubber eraser on a piece of paper.. The Rhino
is sprayed on cold and takes some time to cure whereas the Line-X is
sprayed on hot and cures in seconds. Rhino has a fairly irregular pattern
whereas the Line-X has a good coarse pattern. Both look good but I lean to
Line-X. Both go on about 1/4" thick and add some needed rigidity to these
thin sheetmetal beds. I plan on carrying not only my 5th wheel but also my
Harley Ultra once in a while....... I've heard of the beds bowing under the
weight of a heavy motorcycle.. that sucks but I guess it's part of cost
cutting and weight reduction of today's HD trucks....

Hope these comments help you decide.... Just my $0.02

Bill
- --
ICQ# 38658055 My Irish Terrier, "Punkin"
(o o)
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --oo0--(0)--0oo--- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Bill Splaine- N6GHGWeb Page: http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.sonic.net/~bsplaine
Ham Radio, Motorcycles, Woodworking, Woodcarving, Camping, Fishing

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 11:43:58 -0400
From: "Keith Veren"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Superduty problems, 351 Windsor

Commonly, the popping noise is due to lack of grease on the "turn stops",
which are the little appendages that ultimately stop the wheels when you
turn the steering wheel around to the "lock" on either side.

Keith

- -----Original Message-----
From: George Rigney
To: '97up-list ford-trucks.com'
Date: Friday, May 28, 1999 9:33 AM
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Superduty problems, 351 Windsor


>My wife's truck has something similar. There's a rumbling/popping noise
>from the front right wheel well upon making a left turn on uneven ground
>(such as pulling into a driveway or parking lot). Some have suggested leaf
>spring problems, but it's a 2WD and doesn't have them on the front. I've
>looked very carefully underneath, and I can't see what's causing it. There
>doesn't appear to be any parts interfering, and the ball joints look like
>they have enough grease. We haven't brought it in because we've been
>hauling stuff with the truck almost every day. By next weekend we should
be
>able to do something about it. I'll let you know how it turns out.
>
>On a side note, I have a 351 Windsor in my car, with a stock double-barrel
>carb and no modifications/performance enhancements. From a stop it's
>awesome. At highway speeds, it's creepy going from 45 up and if I push it
I
>get valve chatter. I probably need new springs, but I'm not going to crack
>it open until I buy a new camshaft. We should probably move this
discussion
>to another forum, since I think all the 97-up trucks use Tritons or PSDs.
>
>Regards,
>George
>
>1974 Gran Torino Elite 351W
>
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Janster [mailto:dziadul bigfoot.com]
>Sent: Friday, May 28, 1999 7:34 AM
>To: 97 up list
>Subject: FTE 97up - Superduty problems
>
>
>Hi Folks,
>
>Apart from my wife wanting to drive the truck, I haven't experienced any
>problems w/ my '99 F250 Superduty 4x4, SC. The only slight problem is
>an annoying low-level rumble coming from the drivers side front axle.
>Its not there all the time. It sounds like when tie rods go bad and the
>steering starts to loosen up. I looked things over and didn't find/see
>anything. I noticed it around 2600. I currently got 2900 and it still
>only happens every now and then. Anyone have this happen to them yet?
>
>Jan
>
>== 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 11:49:57 -0500
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - gear question.. was psd straight exaust.

I feel the reason for the advantage the 3.73's have is due to the power band
of the engine. It can lug at low RPM very well but starts to run out at
high RPM (comparetively, it still has lots of power). I'm still open to
other reasons for this, but thats my opinion.

Nathan
Original Message -----
From: Chris Patrick
To:
Sent: Wednesday, May 26, 1999 2:17 PM
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - gear question.. was psd straight exaust.


> > As for gears the
> > 3.73 (from my
> > experience) will out pull the 4.10 so I sell 95% of the
> > Diesels with 3.73
> > (3.55 on older trucks).
> >
> > Nathan
>
>
> i dont own a PSD, but am curious on this:
>
> I am an avid 4x4 Jeep enthusiast. in 100% of all cases,
> numerically higher gears pull better than numerically lower ones.
> using 5.38's for example will significantly improve towing capability, and
> climbing ability.
> we (jeepers) strive for a crawl ratio of 75:1 or better with a stick, or
> 45:1 or better with an automatic
>
> for example
>
> nv4500 with 6.32 1st gear
> dana 300 with 2.62 low range
> 4.56 front and rear diffs yeilds a 75:1 crawl, which will tow a locomotive
> up a mountian, given traction, even with a stock 258 i-6. add a 4 to 1
gear
> kit in the transfer case and we get 115:1 in low gear, which will pull the
> mountain under the locomotive.
>
> assume you have a stock i-6 which makes 180 ft/# of torque at 1800 rpm,
with
> 115:1, your rear wheel torque
> is approximately 20,000# (more then enough to twist stock axles, u joints,
> etc...)
>
>
> so im curious why on the PSD's does the 3.73 outpull the 4.10? is there a
> problem or a quirk with the
> fords, or are we talking about two different things?
>
>
> == 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 11:47:28 -0700
From: "Harald"
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: Superduty problems so far

My 99 F350 XLT SC V10 LWB ESOF SRW 4.30LS truck is almost 1 year old with
9500 miles. Besides the cruise control, GEM and brake line recalls (which I
haven't called the dealer on yet)I've only had a few complaints.

The front end started the squeaking right about the time someone posted
about it on this list. I think the constant rain here in Seattle kept the
spring lubricated so I didn't hear it until we finally got a dry day.

The left side trailer tow mirror wide angle section hasn't been fixed by
Ford even though I've whined numerous times. I have some black painted
popsicle sticks wedged in the lower and inboard sides to get the mirror to
provide a better rear view. I read detailed instructions on someone's web
site on how to disassemble the mirror and fix this problem, but haven't had
time to try it.

The final problem is one I've not heard anyone having. I have the premium
stereo with both cassette and CD. The radio will sound very rich, loud and
dynamic and then suddenly sound dull and slightly muted. It's random, but
does seem to come and go with bumpy road or stopping. The "ST" (indicate
stereo reception) indication doesn't flicker while this is happening. It's
really annoying. There's no problem while playing CD's so I think there's
something wrong with the tuner or the antenna/cable.

The dealer will get all these problems as soon as I can schedule free time
in my schedule.


Harald


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

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 15:04:07 EDT
From: BIGDAAG aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re: Superduty problems so far (GEM)

Can you tell me what GEM stands for, and the reason for the recall.
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 14:19:33 -0500
From: "Chris Patrick"
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - discussion on truck safety vs "tin box's"

Welp, it happend to me last nite. in my EPA/BIG Vehicle discussion many of
you cited size and safety as the reason for driving a super duty...

last night while driving home from working on a buddys M-715 project, some
road rage freak tried to pass me on the shoulder .. the LEFT shoulder.
well, his late 80's iroc z28 bounced off the concrete divider, and then into
the drivers side of my truck behind the rear wheel. (i was in the fast lane
doing about 80 mph in a 75 speed zone....).. then back into the concrete
barrier, then into me again!!

well, My truck is a 4.2 f150 std cab step side short bed. the second time
he hit me, he hit my bumper, which is all metal
..i have the stx package, 17" wheels, monochrome body color bumpers, etc.,
and knocked me about 4 feet sideways on the back end.. which i corrected
for...

anyway, when we got slowed down and pulled over, first, no one was hurt..

his iroc was totaled.. the front suspension was roached and the drivers side
wheel was both folded under and broken.. his t-tops had both popped off and
shattered somewhere back, as had his rear glass... this Iroc was toasted.

on my truck, the sides of the stepside are fiberglass or plastic or
something.. but theres a black line and a blue line from the rear wheelwell
back to the bumper. NO DENTED METAL OR PLASTIC, although i suspect there may
be a scratch under the line. ( i rubbed off the black stuff, and it was
almost smooth)...

the bumper has a paint chip on the corner where he hit me the second time,
and the rear taillight is cracked, but its not noticable unless you push the
plastic in..

NOTHING is deformed.. no metal to bang out, no damage to anything
structural, either.

I suspect i can buff out the black and blue lines, live with a minor scratch
(my truck is white). and it wont show.

the ford dealer qouted me for a new bedside, and an 2 hours of labor to bolt
it on.. aparantly they come painted to match body color, and another 45
minutes to fix the paint scuff on the bumper.

once his insurance company pays out, since ive already ordered my lightning,
i will probably buff the scratches out.. apply a $5 bottle of touch up paint
to the bumper corner, and use the $$ to add flares or a air lift system to
the back, as my new trailer is a tad too heavy for the rear suspension...

gotta love a solid truck with fiberglass sides.. im sure glad i didnt lower
this thing when i got it......the 17" rims and 275 60's fill the wheel wells
perfectly!

anyway, i side with you all on the safety issue....;-)

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 12:36:16 -0400
From: GEORGE CROLL
Subject: FTE 97up - So what is a modular engine anyway

Just to show my ignorance again. What is the concept of a modular engine. Is it just parts interchangability or is
there some fundamental difference in the design from previous engines I am not aware of.

As for the V-10 I would think that when designing this engine ford had to consider the application and beef up any
components which might have been inadequate. Is this true or is it a case of the modular engine design being locked
into the same basic block design, pistons, rods and crankshaft journal diameter and width to ease manufacturing
costs. Or are there subtle differences in the 4.6, 5.4 and 6.8 that make the 5.4 or 6.8 better choices for trucks.

As for Alan's comments on a wait and see about the modular design I think they seem valid and bring up some good
questions which I cant answer but I wish someone who knows would. What I really want to believe is that the V-10
was engineered to be a heavy duty truck motor and it wil turn out to be a reliable heavy duty motor.
George Croll
EPA-OAR-ARD
(202)564-0162
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 19:15:43 -0400
From: "Keith Veren"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - So what is a modular engine anyway

George, so far, my V-10 is performing extremely well, plenty of power,
torque low down, and really gets on the pipe at 3,500+ RPM when floored. So
far, it has passed my first test. Now, if it will just keep-up the fine
performance for, say, 150,000 - 250,000 miles (with proper maintenance), we
will all be able to bless it with the title "heavy-duty truck engine".

Keith

PS. I think "modular" is another one of those nebulous terms, like Dodge's
"cab-forward" that automakers love to make-up to describe some minor
manufacturing change.

- -----Original Message-----
From: GEORGE CROLL
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Friday, May 28, 1999 5:37 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - So what is a modular engine anyway


>Just to show my ignorance again. What is the concept of a modular engine.
Is it just parts interchangability or is
>there some fundamental difference in the design from previous engines I am
not aware of.
>
>As for the V-10 I would think that when designing this engine ford had to
consider the application and beef up any
>components which might have been inadequate. Is this true or is it a case
of the modular engine design being locked
>into the same basic block design, pistons, rods and crankshaft journal
diameter and width to ease manufacturing
>costs. Or are there subtle differences in the 4.6, 5.4 and 6.8 that make
the 5.4 or 6.8 better choices for trucks.
>
>As for Alan's comments on a wait and see about the modular design I think
they seem valid and bring up some good
>questions which I cant answer but I wish someone who knows would. What I
really want to believe is that the V-10
>was engineered to be a heavy duty truck motor and it wil turn out to be a
reliable heavy duty motor.
>George Croll
>EPA-OAR-ARD
>(202)564-0162
>== 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: Fri, 28 May 1999 19:22:19 EDT
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners

In a message dated 5/28/99 10:57:09 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
bsplaine sonic.net writes:


OK, one BIG Problem with Line X if you ever happen to back a boat down into
water to launch, VIOLA the back of your truck will float. Not too great in
my book. This was informed to me when i picked up mine from haveing Rhino
installed, he showed me a complete listing of all currently availible spray
in Liners and their Pros and Cons, i think there was around 10 or so .

RS
9sec93cobra
99F250SD PSD/SC/4x4

I can't speak from full experience yet...... I'm waiting for my '00 PSD.
However, what I know, Drop in liners can be noisey and deteriorate after
time in the sun. They crack, warp and simply get a bad case of the UGLIES
in short order. One of the worst problems is the condensation that
accumulates under them and causes bed rust. I hated that after buying
these things twice thinking they would protect the bed. The first time I
thought it was a fluke and didn't investigate further... the second time I
learned.

I have researched (talked to lots of owners and applicators) of the two
most popular spray-ins (Rhino and Line-X). One will not have any of the
drawbacks seen with the drop-in's other then a slight greying of the liner
after time. This can temporarily be fixed up with Armoral or something
more to your liking. The liner looks great and doesn't tear up or gouge.
If heavy things are placed in the bed the liner may develop a dent/dimple
or whatever.. however, the problem is essentially self healing within a few
moments. ie it returns to it's original shape.

Differences between Rhino and Line-X.... I'm going to Line-X because it is
harder. I saw a couple of demo's where a guy rubbed his Line-X with a
sample he got from the Rhino dealer... the Rhino began to be abraided away.
It looked like using a gum rubber eraser on a piece of paper.. The Rhino
is sprayed on cold and takes some time to cure whereas the Line-X is
sprayed on hot and cures in seconds. Rhino has a fairly irregular pattern
whereas the Line-X has a good coarse pattern. Both look good but I lean to
Line-X. Both go on about 1/4" thick and add some needed rigidity to these
thin sheetmetal beds. I plan on carrying not only my 5th wheel but also my
Harley Ultra once in a while....... I've heard of the beds bowing under the
weight of a heavy motorcycle.. that sucks but I guess it's part of cost
cutting and weight reduction of today's HD trucks....

Hope these comments help you decide.... Just my $0.02

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

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 16:08:54 -0500
From: Perry Klein
Subject: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners floating?

I owned a f150 with rhino and now have a F250 w/ linex.
I personally think they are about the same in quality and all.

With regard to floating, I carry my seadoo in my bed and I launch it sans
trailer.
I just find a steep spot and back in until the water is up to the base
of the door then slide the seadoo in, or out. I guess if you sealed your
tail gate
then backed all the way in the truck would float or if you backed in quickly
with your tail gate up, sealed or not, you might float temporarily

but I've never had a problem.
== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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

Date: Fri, 28 May 1999 19:51:39 -0500
From: "Rick French"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Drop-In vs Spray Liners floating?

There are tons or different companies doing spray on's now. I went with Linex in my 99 F150. My SIL (Son in Law) did the research, but I think the Line-X offers the best protection for the money ($375).

The surface is a very even texture. It's harder than Rhino or Toff and can easily be touched up if damage does happen. Plus, it has a lifetime warranty.

I was in and out in under 2 hours. The SIL had his Ranger done and they did a super job of using the material to make rail caps. Very professional.

- ---- Begin replied message ----
>
> I owned a f150 with rhino and now have a F250 w/ linex.
> I personally think they are about the same in quality and all.....

---

To access the rest of this feature you must be a logged in Registered User Of Ford Truck Enthusiasts

Registration is free, easy and gives you access to more features.
If you are not registered, click here to register.
If you are already registered, you can login here.

If you are already logged in and are seeing this message, your web browser is blocking session cookies. Change your browser cookie settings to allow session cookies.