TTB vs. Solid Front Axle
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5th Wheeling
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 48
Likes: 1
From: Tucson, AZ
TTB vs. Solid Front Axle
I have searched, to no avail, to find the differences between the ±1996-1997 diesel 4x4 F250 and F350 (non-dually). I know the front axle and differential is different between the two. Is the rear suspension different as well? Are there any other differences other than suspension?
<O
As the title indicates, my main inquiry deals with the TTB front suspension. I am looking at buying a diesel truck from this era, but am unsure if it should be the F250 or F350. I like the idea of having an independent front suspension, but I have read of people having problems with the TTB. Especially when installing a suspension lift. In addition, it seems that swapping out the TTB for the solid axle is a common modification. I do not plan to tow anywhere near the limits of either truck and most driving would be done unloaded. <O
<O
Therefore, my questions are:<O
1. How does the ride quality of the F350 compare to the F250 in the 1996-1997 model years? (Again, I am assuming 4x4 and no load.)
2. How much of a problem with bump steer dot he solid axle trucks have?
<O</O
Thanks,
Shawn
<O
As the title indicates, my main inquiry deals with the TTB front suspension. I am looking at buying a diesel truck from this era, but am unsure if it should be the F250 or F350. I like the idea of having an independent front suspension, but I have read of people having problems with the TTB. Especially when installing a suspension lift. In addition, it seems that swapping out the TTB for the solid axle is a common modification. I do not plan to tow anywhere near the limits of either truck and most driving would be done unloaded. <O
<O
Therefore, my questions are:<O
1. How does the ride quality of the F350 compare to the F250 in the 1996-1997 model years? (Again, I am assuming 4x4 and no load.)
2. How much of a problem with bump steer dot he solid axle trucks have?
<O
</OThanks,
Shawn
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,277
Likes: 89
From: MD
Shawn,the TTB is hard to keep aligned,and will wear tires even when it is aligned.On stock trucks,the 250 prob has slight edge in ride quality.Bump steer not a problem on stock height.If you plan on lifting it,go w/the solid.
Brian
Brian
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 13,653
Likes: 6
From: Cabot, Arkansas
Ford's TTB is the strongest IFS out there....but it can be a pain to keep it aligned. There are good steering fixes available for lifts in the 4-6" range, but if you want to go taller you'll want the live axle.
I'd probably just go for the 350 and be done with it. There are very few mechanical differences between the 250 and 350 once you get past the steer axle.
I'd probably just go for the 350 and be done with it. There are very few mechanical differences between the 250 and 350 once you get past the steer axle.
New User
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
From: Vassar, MI (in the Thumb)
Originally Posted by barebackjake
the only reason i didnt buy a 350 when i bought mine is because i wanted a supercab 4x4 but the D60 swap is easy mine has had one under it since 99.
