7.3 First Drive
Lead Driver
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 8,475
Likes: 728
From: Calgary Canada
I haven't found any vehicle review YouTube channel that does a "great" job of the technical details, but maybe that's because any that try it don't get the clinks. Remember, YouTube is an entertainment business, and being informative is a secondary goal for most channels.
Tuned
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 273
Likes: 1
I haven't found any vehicle review YouTube channel that does a "great" job of the technical details, but maybe that's because any that try it don't get the clinks. Remember, YouTube is an entertainment business, and being informative is a secondary goal for most channels.
Freshman User
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 36
Likes: 1
Now, if they could hire some non-idiots to speak on camera, all would be well.
Freshman User
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 28
Likes: 1
Looks like the Sterling is the way to go with the 7.3 after all.
All in all TFL has improved over the years but I agree they don't give true enthusiasts anything to write home about. At least their early access to new production vehicles is nice.
All in all TFL has improved over the years but I agree they don't give true enthusiasts anything to write home about. At least their early access to new production vehicles is nice.
I would take a Sterling axle over the the Dana m275 any day. The new Dana axle has very little aftermarket support, and what is available is expensive. The Sterling 10.5 has tons of aftermarket support, there are dozens of limited slips, lockers, and gearsets available for it, and it is one of the cheapest HD axles to buy parts for.
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 2,430
Likes: 701
From: Minnesota
The best bet for better mileage is a long tow; as in a couple of thousand miles. The differentials need to loosen up to get better mileage.
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2017
Posts: 3,523
Likes: 483
From: Southern OH
That makes little difference, a new differential shouldn't be tight, the pinion pre-load is only 20-40 inch lbs on most axles, which is very little, considering the weight and wind resistance of the truck.
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Super Moderator
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 25,479
Likes: 742
From: Isanti, MN
I've never noticed much of a difference break-in, and 12 sounds about right for mix driving. Have you paid attention to the mpg meter while cruising on the highway?
Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 3,924
Likes: 321
From: Lost in the Ozone....
Cargo Master
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 2,430
Likes: 701
From: Minnesota
Yes, I agree. IMO, the differentials get worked in . . . close to 2 MPG improvement in my case. The break-in Ford wants before towing is for the differentials, not the engine. When my truck was new, releasing the throttle was like throwing out a huge boat anchor. Now it will coast somewhat better.
Cargo Master
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 2,802
Likes: 314
I haven't found any vehicle review YouTube channel that does a "great" job of the technical details, but maybe that's because any that try it don't get the clinks. Remember, YouTube is an entertainment business, and being informative is a secondary goal for most channels.
Thread Starter
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,396
Likes: 107
From: Southern KS
That could still be the case with new engines. Outboard marine engines are the same way.