The Ford F-150 SuperCrew has long been a leader for all manner of heavy duty jobs, and the 2012 model year will see some additional changes to the vehicle design that should help to make it even stronger. This full-size pickup truck is already fully outfitted for heavy duty hauling, loading and towing; now, the SuperCrew design will be updated so that the vehicle payload will be increased overall. This will result in a higher total carrying limit for the pickup, as well as additional space in the bed, in order to carry all types of items. Read on for more information about these changes, which affect all of the vehicles in the F-150 SuperCrew lineup.

Changes to the Payload Capacity for Different SuperCrew Vehicles

Two of the SuperCrew models are receiving major upgrades to the payload capacity that will significantly improve their carrying capabilities. The 2012 EcoBoost two-wheel drive SuperCrew will receive an expanded bed to 6.5 feet, which will allow the total payload to be increased from an already impressive 2000 pounds up to a massive 2590 pounds. The 4x4 model of the SuperCrew will also be enhanced. In this case, the upgrade will shift the payload capacity from 1890 pounds up to 2340 pounds. The 6.5 foot loading area will be the same for this vehicle as for the two-wheel drive model.

Reasons for the Payload Change

It's common for truck manufacturers to make upgrades to the total payload capacity of a vehicle with subsequent model years and new designs. However, a massive payload increase of several hundred pounds is generally considered to be unique in the pickup world. One primary reason that Ford may have decided to make this adjustment is that the heavier payload capacity is already in place for the larger versions of the F-150, the Regular cab and the SuperCab. Adding the improved payload to the SuperCrew model will enhance the overall capabilities of the vehicle, as well as its attractiveness as a smaller, though still sturdy, alternative.

How the Payload Increase Was Achieved

A number of changes will be made to the design of the SuperCrew in order to facilitate this increase in total payload. The frame rails will be made thicker and the shock absorbers altered to accommodate a heavier load. Also, Ford will add an auxiliary engine and transmission cooling systems to help ensure that the vehicle doesn't overheat under the additional stress of an added payload. Seven-lug wheels will also be available on the upgraded SuperCrew, as opposed to the lighter weight six-lug wheels from previous models.

The new 2012 edition of the SuperCrew should be effective at accomplishing almost every task that you might desire for your vehicle. However, the additional weight may lower the overall fuel economy of the vehicle.

Is the larger payload in the SuperCrew a welcome addition? Voice your opinion here!