Ford announced today that they plan on reducing their cost to build the new F-150 by $1,000 before the end of 2004. 5 will get you 10 that their number one method will be to "de-content" the truck; ie, take out all the nice goodies you're getting now. Say good-bye to the overhead rail system, chrome door handles, rear-seat cup holders, etc... If you like the truck the way it is now, then BUY one now. Don't make me come back here a year from now and say I told you so.

 

Yeah, I bought the XL package. For the bare bones package, I was amazed and quite happy with what was included. I bet the XL won't be so nice next year.

 

Hmmm, usually the thought process is to wait a year to work the kinks out, but this may even the scale. Thanks for the heads up Mark.

 

I can see the cupholders and chrome door handles going, but do you seriously think they'd get rid of the overhead rail system which is one of the big new features?

 

even before the new 04 series was released ford announced they were looking at ways to cut cost from the new style. But not sure it will happen within just 12 months. Takes a long time to study the options, complete engineering tests, finalize vendor contracts,etc. But 1956MarkII is correct, it is just a matter of time. Deleting the tach from the 2004 XL and the STX is a fine example of "decontenting".

 

They will probably just get rid of some jobs, since all they care about is making their taxholders happy.

 

Whoops: stockholders.

 

Was that a slip? The stockholders are probably the only taxpayers (taxholders) as the progressive tax curve continues to steepen.

 

I just meant to say stockholders. Nothing to do with taxes.

 

What is the overhead rail system?

 

Within a given framework i.e. obey laws, dont get people hurt on the job, etc Ford's job (and any publically traded company) is to maximize shareholder value. Maximizing shareholder value is Ford's reason for existence, and its primary hope for continued existence.

 

If you read the article about this on the motor trend website, it states that the removal of content(rail system...tachometer) is not how ford expects to shave $1,000 off the building price. They will probably find more efficient ways of manufacturing. I wouldnt worry. The F-150 is fords diamond in the rough...they will keep it shiny!

 

Carnivore.......The rail system is available in the Scab and Screw without the moonroof option. It has overhead storage for sunglasses and small stuff plus they have a DVD option that snaps onto the two rails that run from front to back on the afore mentioned models. It is kinda neat as you can arrainge your "boxes" to suit your fancy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

 

ah. Thats why I don't see it. I have the moonroof option