Hello all - Please don't let my screen-name start a flame-war...I've been a Dodge fan for a long time now, but the new FX-4 has sparked my interest.

I'm in the market for a new/almost-new truck. Can you give me some direction on what options to look for/what not to look for...etc.

I need 4x4...I'd like to be able to pull a 26' camper (not sure on the weight...it's a Prowler).

I've seen a lot of folks talk about the 3.73 gears - is that as low as they go stock, or are there lower sets available?

What's the FX-4's towing capacity with the 5.4?

What's the 5.4's record for longevity/durability/reliability?

I'm comparing to a Ram 1500 with 5.7 Hemi...pros and cons appreciated.

Thanks for your input!

Ryan

 

Welcome to FTE Ryan. Yes, you might get a few raised eyebrows at the name here . You should check out this comparison from Ford for some of those specs:

http://www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/f150/compare/details/?vehicles=14128|15425|13548|16026

3.73 gears are what most come with for the lowest set. I believe you can get 4.10s, but I think that limits you to a regular cab, long bed setup. For that comparison link, I chose a Supercab shortbed (one of the most popular setups). You can change the vehicle style on the top of the page to meet your needs.


Rich

 

Thanks for the info - anyone with personal experience that can chime in?


Thanks!

Ryan

 

Another Question - I see different measurements for the FX-4 - 126" and 146" (I think)

Is this referring to the overall length - and if so, is there a difference in intererior room, or is that all bed?

I'm waiting for you guys to convert me to a Ford owner - need a little help here!

Ryan

 

Those figures refer to the wheelbase, and sound like its only a bed difference. What configuration are you looking for (regular cab/super cab/supercrew...bed length, etc)?

 

I'm not sure of Ford's nomenclature...probably the supercrew? 2-doors but with a back seat? Am I right?

For a box, 6 1/2 feet would be fine - I don't need a long box.

Thanks!

Ryan

 

A Supercrew has 4 full doors, but with a short 5.5" bed only. I think you are talking about a Supercab. It has two full size doors, with two small rear-mounted doors. You can get either the 6.75 foot, or 8 foot bed with it. Check out my gallery. The FX4 I have is a Supercab Shortbed.

 

That's the one I want - the Super-Cab.

I'm looking at an FX4 Supercab with the 6.5' bed...can anyone answer my above questions with regards to this model?

Your input is greatly appreciated!!

Ryan

 

DO IT! In July, I traded my 2001 Dodge 1500 5.2L w/3.55 gears in for my 2004 F150 FX4, 5.4L 3.73 gears. There's no comparison. I regularaly tow my 19' bassboat and this thing tows like a dream. I towed my father's 23' Sea Ray last week and you barely know it's back there. I'm getting better fuel mileage (about 2 mpg's) in any conditions, and my insurance went down. The thing is paying for itself! I love the truck. No issues with vibrations or jitters. Only a blower motor (A/C fan) issue so far (4300 miles). It's so comfortable to drive. 70 feels like you're going 35. I went nuts and got the leather seats, moonroof, Audiophile stereo, 18" rims. I should have sprung for the power rear window. Oh well, you live and you learn. My suggestion is, if you're thinking about it, do it.

 

A SuperCab(Scab) come in two different bed lengths. 5.5ft and 6.5ft. The 6.5ft bed has a 144" wheelbase, the 5.5ft bed has a 132" wheelbase and will turn in a smaller diameter. Good luck finding a 5.5ft bed. I looked for two months and bought a Lariat with a 6.5ft bed. Whatever you do make sure what you find has the tow package and 3.73 Limited Slip rear...

http://www4.forddirect.fordvehicles....=fv&sZip=08245 Start here and search the local Ford dealership's inventory. Just plug in your zip code. This link has my zip code. The dealer I bought mine from has 84 04' trucks on the lot..

 

I am assuming that you are looking at an F-150, and not an F-250? An F-250 0r 350 might better suit your towing needs.

 

Although it would be a plus to be able to pull my in-laws camper, it would be once a year, so I don't think I'd need more than an F150 if it's capable of doing the job.

Do the FX4's come standard with tranny/power steering coolers like the new Rams?

Thanks for your input guys, right now I'm still sitting on the fence...your input is very valuable.

Ryan

 

Also, can someone speak to the reliability/durability/longevity of the 5.4 and the transmission that comes in the FX4? (I forget what it's called...7R45E or something?)

Thank you again!

Ryan

 

I Had 99 Dodge 4x4 3 Trans Latter 20o2 Ford Supercrew Zero Problems 2004 Ford Fx4 Supercrew No Problems Luv This Truck Plus Good Friends 2004 Hemi Doge In Shop Now 2 Weeks Trans Out And New Ones Unavailable Try The Ford You Will Never Go Back

 

I believe (correct me if I'm wrong guys/gals) that it does come standard with the transmission cooler. If not then it does come with the trailer/tow package for sure, which sounds like you will be getting. The FX4 is a great truck. You would not be disappointed at all IMO. Go to the www.forddirect.com website and you can build the truck you want but also you can see what all comes standard and what options are available. Tons of info there. Good luck and keep the questions coming, there are a lot of knowledgable people here!