Frame
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Senior User
Joined: Jun 2006
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Frame
I saw a commercial last night for the Super-duty pickup, it shows the truck in 3D as an exploded view. Then I noticed something: the frame on the super duty is not fully boxed. I thought to myself, "why on earth do they make such a big deal about the F-150 being fully boxed, when they dont even do that on the S.D.'s?". Now I am quite sure the frame channels are bigger and thicker, but whats up with that? I guess in the race to make your 1/2 ton pickup stronger than most old 1 tons, this is what you do. That is the most logical explanation I can come up with and I could only wonder what the next generation truck will bring.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 42,561
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From: Long Island USA
"Fully boxed frames" are good for light weight. You can use a lot less metal and get the same strength from it.
It means a better ride, and better (minimally) MPGs. Every ounce of weight makes a difference.
On the Superduty, do we really care about MPGs?
There's also other things to consider, like mounting a plow. Or a front receiver hitch.
Also, it's one of those things "everyone's doing" so they have to do it to compete.
It means a better ride, and better (minimally) MPGs. Every ounce of weight makes a difference.
On the Superduty, do we really care about MPGs?
There's also other things to consider, like mounting a plow. Or a front receiver hitch.
Also, it's one of those things "everyone's doing" so they have to do it to compete.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 5,078
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From: Rural WV
I agree with krewat. The frames on the 150 are thinner that those on the 250s and up. By using the box design with the thinner metal, you get more strength. With the thickness of the larger truck frames, the box design isn't necessary.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 1,191
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From: New York
I agree. Two different class trucks. I believe all commercial trucks and big rigs use a regular "C" channel for framing. Of course, thicker and wider respectively. What comes to my mind when you say boxed frame is unibody design. The box will from a design standpoint give more strength without having to beef up the steel being used. But it's also true that the "new" design gives them something to flaunt, hoping for more sales.
