Good day all

My second post!! Yes I.......am a newbie !!
Please be gentle

I'm in the process of buying my new Ranger FX4(maybe level2). The dealer isn't much help, so now I turn to the experts.

Payload Package 2(PP2) is std on the FX4 and as far as I can tell is load upgrade from PP1, but when I do the "rear jump seat delete" (no kids, need space for tools, empty coffee cups etc.), the GVWR drops from 5280 lbs to 5140 lbs. It still lists it as PP2. I can't figure why the max that this truck can weigh fully loaded decreases by 140 lbs just because you pull out the midget seats. What else changes on the package to do that???

Another "odd" thing is with the level 2. It only comes with PP1, but the GVWR is 5380 lbs. 100 lbs 'more' than the FX4 (with jump seats - you can't delete the bloody things in the level 2 options - Canada!!!), but get this. The max payload for the level 2 is 1260lbs, 320 lbs LESS than the FX4@ 1580 lbs. I can understand how a higher load rated tire can increase the GVWR, but what the heck would they have bolted onto the level 2 chassis the reduce the weight you could throw into the back by 320 lbs.?? ( ie. The level 2 can weigh more overall when fully loaded than the FX4, but the max load it can carry is 320 lbs less).

They don't publish the curb weight in this brochure like they did in the old days.

http://www.ford.ca/english/howtobuy/...DF.asp?vid=010

thanx for the info and congrats on a great forum
Fred

 

On the 2nd question, the LII tires have a rated load capacity less than the FX4 tires and thus the lower payload capacity.

 

On the first question, you need to confirm, but it looks like when you delete the jump seats you revert to a 2 door Supercab! That would account for the weight reduction.

 

I've noticed those quirks as well, I have been building up various Rangers on the US build and price site. I was not aware that the FX4 comes with the higher payload package. A dealer once told me that the higher spring rates that up the max payload number gives the Ranger a much harsher ride when empty. However a review I read about the FX4 mentioned how well it rode for an "off-road" version. Personnally I have been tempted by the FX4 more than the level two, just because it looks more balanced, however both trim packages are sweet! Just wish I had more $$ right now -- if I did I would be ordering a nice red or black FX4 myself.

On this webpage there is a download specs link that provides a pdf document that may or may not provide useful information:
http://www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/r...eatures/specs/

 

The level II has full skidplates, torson rear diff, rear tow hook, 31/10.50 tires and is fully loaded, so it should weigh more. I have found that all 4x4 rangers ride stiff, thier all truck. If your looking for a smooth ride, a 4x4 ranger isn't going to give it to you. I love the way 4x4 rangers ride, it makes them feel larger than they are and you won't fall a sleep behind the wheel ha ha.

 

Whoa!!!! Excellent replies. I love FTE Gotta be the best ford web site on the web.

Talked to the dealer today. He's still talkin' to ford engineering about these quirky numbers.

After everything i've checked out, here's my opinion. PP1 only is offered in level 2 because they WANT looser spring rates because they perform better in the mud/rough trails than does the stiffer suspension of the regular FX4.

The higher GVWR for the level 2 is based on the tires because they'd be the weakest link. Even if you're loaded to the bump stops(rubber bumpers bolted to the frame) the tires'll blow first. Anyone who 'hauls' knows that you can over load your vehicle(within reason) without damage if you run the gear easy. You just can't do things like- highway speeds and brake safely in open road conditons.

That being said, The level 2 just can't accomodate higher loads in the bed than the FX4 Off Road, under normal conditions of course.

As far as the extra weight from the extras on the level 2. I doubt that they add up the difference between the FX4 Off Road and Level 2 which is 300+ lbs. No offence intended, but what's a skid plate and rear sliding window wheigh?

Thanks a pile fellas for the input. The differences that I'm finding out show that the FX4 Off Road and the level 2 are meant for 2 distinct applications. Level 2 if your going straight from the dealership to the mud/bush for a rockin' good time(a few mods may help of course). And, the FX4 Off Road for someone like myself - dirt roads, rough construction sites, haulin' firewood out of a woodlot, getting in and out of a quarry with a load ( mind you, both trucks equiped the same will haul the same loaded trailer, which is a definite consideration).

Upgrading to what the level 2 has(besides interior trim level) is somewhat simple, thanks to torsen. You could wind-up with a level 2 with stiffer rear springs, which may or may not be a problem.

Thanx again, I'd love any more info.
fred