Looking - 03 4x4
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 559
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From: South Carolina
Looking - 03 4x4
Well guys, my Bronco just 'aint cutting it anymore. It's been down too long - I'm really looking hard at a newer Ford. I love my Bronco, but there's just so much to do, and it has very high mileage. I've kind of lost interest. I have a couple of questions about the newer F-150;
Have the spark plug issues been resolved for the newer 4.6?
The 4wd system on the newer F-150 is IFS, with an 8.8" housing and carrier at the center. Does it have any sort of disconnecting hubs, or does it just "drive" the front shaft all the time, and disconect at the transfer case? It looks like there are no Warn Hubs made for the 97 and up half tons. The mileage difference seems to be minimal between 4wd and 2wd. I'm not a hard core offroader, just someone who lives in the country, occasionally traversing muddy roads, wet fields, and the odd jaunt in the snow if we get any! For 1 mpg rated difference, I'd go for 4wd in this model!
The automatic trans in the 97-04 is a 4R70W, right? Do they seem to be reliable? About three times a year I help gather hay from the fields, hauling a two axle trailer with 75-80 bales. With proper maintenance and prudent driving, this shouldn't be an issue I think? But what do YOU think?
Have the spark plug issues been resolved for the newer 4.6?
The 4wd system on the newer F-150 is IFS, with an 8.8" housing and carrier at the center. Does it have any sort of disconnecting hubs, or does it just "drive" the front shaft all the time, and disconect at the transfer case? It looks like there are no Warn Hubs made for the 97 and up half tons. The mileage difference seems to be minimal between 4wd and 2wd. I'm not a hard core offroader, just someone who lives in the country, occasionally traversing muddy roads, wet fields, and the odd jaunt in the snow if we get any! For 1 mpg rated difference, I'd go for 4wd in this model!
The automatic trans in the 97-04 is a 4R70W, right? Do they seem to be reliable? About three times a year I help gather hay from the fields, hauling a two axle trailer with 75-80 bales. With proper maintenance and prudent driving, this shouldn't be an issue I think? But what do YOU think?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,619
Likes: 12
From: Forest Hill MD
I have a 97 so its not quite "newer". I also have the 4.6 I have hauled everything I have every wanted to and still get 16 MPG on the highway. I LOVE this truck. I don't think you will regret the change.
Good Luck
Good Luck
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
The later 4.6's are ok. I prefer the 5.4L because it has alot more torque myself. The plug issue is very random and is usually from unproperly torqued plugs.
The front end disengages the differential so the front end is free when in 2wd. Mine has worked flawlessly on my 2001. A little hint, turn it on once a month just to keep things moving. I have pulled over 7500lbs with mine with no problems.
The 4R70W is a strong tranny. I have had no problems with mine. I had my dealer power flush it @ about 50,000 miles. Highly recommended to keep them working properly.
The front end disengages the differential so the front end is free when in 2wd. Mine has worked flawlessly on my 2001. A little hint, turn it on once a month just to keep things moving. I have pulled over 7500lbs with mine with no problems.
The 4R70W is a strong tranny. I have had no problems with mine. I had my dealer power flush it @ about 50,000 miles. Highly recommended to keep them working properly.
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