I know this must sound like a no brainer, bigger is better right. But really, for the average guy pulling a 4000lb or less trailer do you really need the 5.4 engine? Being of modest means I've been trying to trim as much cost as possible but living in colorado I don't want to end up in the creeper lane while going up the mountains. What are your expert comments guys (or gals).

 

The loss in mileage with the 5.4 is minimal 1 or 2 mpg. max.

The 5.4 is a new 3 valve/cyl. 300 hp engine.

I'd get it if you can afford a few hundred extra.

 

Actually the new 5.4 is rated the same mileage as the 4.6. If you tow anything do not, I repeat, do not get the 4.6. While the 4.6 is capable you will get real tired of having it shift out of overdrive at the slightest grade. Given that you live in Colorado you should get the 5.4. I tow a two place enclosed snowmobile trailer in the hills of western NY all winter and my 4.6 on my 97 would labor the whole way. Besides you will get half of the $800 back when you trade it in or sell it.

 

The other thing to consider in this debate is the frequency of towing. If you only tow just a few times during the year, you may be happy with the $ savings on the 4.6. If you tow on a more regular basis, the 5.4 is probably going to be worth it. Considering the average cost of these trucks, it's only about a 3% premium, which isn't much.

If most of your towing is over generally flat areas the 4.6 will do better, but, as you live in Colorado, the 5.4 probably makes more sense. Not only do you have more mountainous terrain to deal with, but the altitude you're at causes a not insubstantial performance hit as well.

Also, from my own experience and all the anecdotal evidence I've read on these sites, the mileage difference between the motors is negligible. The 4.6 has to work harder than the 5.4, so it pretty much balances out in the end. You just get to live with less performance.

 

The amount of extra $ you put out for the 5.4 you will get back when you sell it 8 years down the road, so why not enjoy it. Same goes for leather seats.

 

Bigger motor same fuel economy and more power sounds like a good deal for 800

 

The 4.6 is just too small, it's a dog in the older F150's, and the new ones are about 500 lbs heavier, so I'd skip it and move on to the 5.4. From what I saw on Motor Week last weekend, even the 5.4 is not fast due to the increased weight.