Originally Posted by
Louisville Joe
When is the next generation Super Duty due out? The 2011 still has a lot in common with the original 1999, and I think it is about time we saw a new-from-the-ground-up Super Duty. The new engines have made a big difference, but it is time the rest of the truck was completely updated. There are some things I think need improvement.
First off, the powertrains are fine. They are new, and I think all that is needed are some software tweaks for the Torq-Shift and maybe a larger displacement 6.2L to put the V-10 to rest in the 450 and 550.
Chassis- This is an area that needs to be looked at. The current chassis is too heavy. I think Ford needs to consider a boxed design made out of higher grade steel, at least 45,000 psi.. Special attention would need to be paid to corrosion protection (go back to that wax coating), and it would probably make sense to keep the chassis-cab models a C-channel behind the cab. One problem with the current Super Duty is the unladen weight is so high the trucks have less payload than GM and Dodge though they have similar GVW's.. A lot of the excess weight is in the chassis.
Front suspension- Twin-I-Beam on the 4X2's needs to go! It doesn't handle as well as GM and Dodge and it still wears out tires fast. And, I think IFS should be considered for the 4X4's. A well designed IFS has a lot of advantages over a SFA. Handling, ride, ground clearance, overall height of the truck can all be improved. Don't think of the pre-2011 GM front ends, they were not strong enough. It can be done, and result in a better truck.
Body- I think Ford needs to rethink the unitized front cab structure. Welding the inner fender supports and lower core support to the cab firewall not only makes for extensive repairs in moderate collisions, but it makes servicing difficult. This is one of the reasons the cab must be removed for many engine repairs. Resistance to corrosion needs to be improved as well, particularly the bed.
What do you think?
The interior is better the anything out there.
The Body still looks better then anything out there, although I would like to see a more Retro 76/77 body lines, grille and clam hood!