As much as I hate to give it up, the ole X is long in the tooth and we need to upgrade(?) to something newer for reliability and perhaps some economy. I am sure it can deliver for 95% of what we need it for, but can it handle towing a 8,000lb camper from time to time? Safely? As with the X, I would air spring the rear, but really, will I be disappointed? I'm looking at one now and seems like a decent deal for a clean ride. Need your input, if you've made the same jump that insight is valuable.
Thanks Ya'll!

 

Well dang, posted this is the wrong forum, Mods please move this to the later model forum, sorry folks.

 

I've considered this swap before on my 05 but for racing purposes. Same engine bay basically. The conclusion I came to was that the V10 would be to packed into the engine bay for its own good and would make spark plug changes and other work, a cab-off situation. The 5.4 in these trucks are outstanding V8s. It will always be in my top 5 engines. Well taken care of ones take miles like diesels.

For hauling, I can't remember the actual weight the truck can carry inside, but the trucks are 6200lbs in the heaviest forms on their own. So with 2000lbs inside the truck, you can get it up to 8200lbs and that would be plenty for 8000lb trailers. Plus, the 2013s have sway control and Advancetrac with RSC and along with independent coil overs at all corners, you'll likely love the truck.

As for power, a little investment in boost can push you past the numbers of the V10 while possibly retaining stock fuel economy unloaded. You may get better milage towing too but the Excursion is likely better as it's sole purpose when built was to dominate everything (and they do that). If you really want power though, these modular engines are great because unlike your conventional Chevy OHV engine, the power bands are long and start low, making them a pleasure to drive.