Just curious how much worse mileage the 4.10 gear in an XLT scab 4x4 with the heavy duty payload package gets compared to the same truck with the 3.73 gear (in other words without the payload package). Conversly, is the non-heavy duty XLT really limited to only a 1740lb payload, or will exceeding that somewhat frequently be damaging?
Basically, I am thinking about getting a 150 (this time I mean it!!), but am struggling between the payload package or not. I really would prefer the extra capacity, but am worried about the worse mileage (especially on the highway) of the 4.10 gear. Any help would be much appreciated!
By the way, I don't do enough towing for that to be considered. Thanks.

 

I just bought an XLT scab with the HD payload package. I use to have an '04 XL with the regular package. I bought the bigger truck b/c I wanted it to haul at least a ton.
The old ruck was limited to 1667#s, but there were times I would load that to 1750 or so. I didn't really notice it except that my rear brakes wore down at 45K.

While I could have done close to a ton with the old truck, and the smaller engine, I really didn't want to take the risk of doing costly damage.

As for the mileage, in the old truck I did easily did 18 mpg in city driving (15 during the winter). With the new truck I'm doing about 14 in the winter, in the city. It is a bit different, and sometimes I long for the last truck. But I know that for what I use it for, the new one will outlast the old one, b/c of the HD payload package and upgraded frame.

 

Don't worry about the mileage. I have the heavy duty package on an '05 supercab. I checked the mileage one time. It came out to 18 mpg which is right along with their estimate. The extra cargo capacity is a must have. Go for it!

 

the 5.4 3v will actaully get better mileage with the 4.10. the new 3v engines have a higher powerband and perform best at a higher rpm.

 

I agree, go for the 8' bed if you really want capacity--or atleast volume.

 

I Love My 05 Hd Xlt Lb, But The It Does Suck A Lot Of Gas.

My Wife Drives It The Most, And She Is Very Easy On The 'go' Peddle, But The Ave Gas Mpg I See Is 12.5mpg. The Best Was 16.8mpg, And The Worst Was 6.5mpg. The Worst Was Pulling A 30' 6000lb Travel Trailer Into A 40mph Headwind.

 

I know exacctly what you mean! =) I've only had mine for a week, and I've averaged about 13mpg, empty. I can only imagine what it's going to be like with my trailer hooked up.