which engine?
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New User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 11
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From: Hermitage, TN
which engine?
Hi all,
I've been very happy with my Aerostar 4.0 XLT van but after 200,000 miles I'm looking to replace it. I'm thinking about an E150 Club Wagon XLT Chateau, fairly loaded, as I expect to take some long motor trips over the next few years.
Question is, which engine? I'm inclined to rule out the V6 as underpowered for this van, especially when running the high output front and rear A/C. Would the smaller V8 be adequate, or should I go for the 5.4?
On a related note, the only towing I expect to do would be a lightweight motorcycle trailer with one bike. Is the standard equipment sufficient, or should I go for the heavy duty deluxe trailer towing package?
Thanks for your advice on this--
Dave
I've been very happy with my Aerostar 4.0 XLT van but after 200,000 miles I'm looking to replace it. I'm thinking about an E150 Club Wagon XLT Chateau, fairly loaded, as I expect to take some long motor trips over the next few years.
Question is, which engine? I'm inclined to rule out the V6 as underpowered for this van, especially when running the high output front and rear A/C. Would the smaller V8 be adequate, or should I go for the 5.4?
On a related note, the only towing I expect to do would be a lightweight motorcycle trailer with one bike. Is the standard equipment sufficient, or should I go for the heavy duty deluxe trailer towing package?
Thanks for your advice on this--
Dave
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
which engine?
I would get the 5.4L, the gas mileage is about the same and the added torque is nice. The class III towing package is nice, heavy duty battery, Reese style hitch, prewired for trailer lights and brakes and heavy duty shocks.
I'm glad that I got these on mine. Plenty of power and no hassle trailer light/brake wiring.
Jimmy
I'm glad that I got these on mine. Plenty of power and no hassle trailer light/brake wiring.
Jimmy
Junior User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 61
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From: Hanna City United States
which engine?
I wouldn't even consider anything but the 5.4L. The 4.6L is probably OK on the F150, but the E150 will weigh at least 1000 pounds more than the truck. (even the 4X4) I have a 2000 conversion van that weighs in at 6300 lbs w/full tank and family. The base curb weight for the F150 4X4 is somewhere around 5000lbs. Options will add some, but not a thousand pounds. Also remember that both engines make less HP and torque in the vans. I'm told it is mostly due to exhaust restriction. Having said that, the van is an excellent travel vehicle.
Elder User
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 692
Likes: 1
From: Saratoga USA
which engine?
I agree, get the 5.4L. I have one in my '03 F150, and am very pleased with the power. The 4.6L just does not have enough torque. A test drive will fool you, the 4.6 will seem fine, but put in a load, pull a trailer, or drive in hilly country, and you'll wish you had the 5.4. Look at it this way, mileage is about the same, and if you don't want the power, just push less on the loud pedal!
Posting Guru
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 1,673
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From: Chicago Area
which engine?
I am going to give a contrary opinion. The 4.6 will be just fine for your useage and it will get significantly better mileage. I think it'll also save you close to $1000 initially (Not sure on current van prices). If you drive in mountains much, or were used to driving a Cobra, I might agree with the 5.4.
I would, however, get the towing package because it's relatively cheap and will give you some extra margin for towing and longevity; also for when you're running all that AC.
Brian
I would, however, get the towing package because it's relatively cheap and will give you some extra margin for towing and longevity; also for when you're running all that AC.
Brian
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 695
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From: Metro Detroit
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 61
Likes: 0
From: Hanna City United States
which engine?
All I know is that the big vans are heavy-considerably more than an F150 and both of the engines make less HP and torque in the van. I own a van w/the 5.4L and even my wife thinks it is a little sluggish with the chip turned off.
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