Time to step up into an SD?
More Turbo
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 538
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From: Shiner, TX
Touche, my friend!
You Keep What You Kill
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 4,902
Likes: 2
From: Huntersville, NC
It's unfortunate, but every time there's a thread on "which is the best engine?" this long standing debate arises... As in every area of life, you have to filter out the "noise" to glean the facts. This thread is no different. 
Hotshot
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 17,398
Likes: 317
From: Whittier, CA
Andrew is right, we never seem to get tired of debating motor choices. It's all in fun, and there is no right or wrong.
My truth is, the 5.4 is a great motor, but it should NOT be our only V-8 choice in the Superduty. Ford needs a bigger V-8, as the standard in the SD, and an option in the F150. I believe there is a void there, and that the 5.4 really does not belong in a truck the size of the SD. And this is coming from someone who owned one in an F150 and would never want one in a SD.
Maybe the 6.2 will come to fruition. Hope so.
My truth is, the 5.4 is a great motor, but it should NOT be our only V-8 choice in the Superduty. Ford needs a bigger V-8, as the standard in the SD, and an option in the F150. I believe there is a void there, and that the 5.4 really does not belong in a truck the size of the SD. And this is coming from someone who owned one in an F150 and would never want one in a SD.
Maybe the 6.2 will come to fruition. Hope so.
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2006
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From: Maryland
You Keep What You Kill
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 4,902
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From: Huntersville, NC
I'd still get the V10 and add a SCT X3 tuner with custom tunes to include an 87 Octane - Economy profile. This way, you can maximize your MPG but still have the grunt of the V10 when you need it. Just my opinion...
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Joined: Apr 2009
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Out of your three choices I would choose the 09 F150. I have the same truck as you and pull a travel trailer at 6,500 pounds. I upgraded to a 08 F250 with the 6.4 this year and it pulls the trailer easier. But my opinion is if you want the 5.4 stay with the F150 and the better ride for a daily driver. But if you think you will tow more often or heavier I would step up to the F250.
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Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,762
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From: Maryland
Honestly, I am concerned about going with the 150. I don't know if I will actually be 'upgrading' my situation from a towing margin of safety aspect. I know if I go with the 250 I will be well within spec and not have to worry about too little payload and not enough capacity. I was originally all gung-ho for the 09 150, but the more I read about the payload issues and the true numbers after building the truck I want I grow concerned and feel I will be in the same situation I am in now. Perhaps I should spend some time on the 150 forum and get some real-world towing experiences there. Thanks to everyone who contributed. I am learning more and more and this helps to make a decision that I will not regret.
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Joined: Aug 2003
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From: Isanti, MN
JP, I know this has been mentioned to you before, but if you are looking at reasonable mileage, I think the 6.4, or an older 6.0 would be a decent choice.
I haven't had my '08 for long enough to form a definitive number, but I seem to be getting between 15-16 MPG with a light foot on the highway...and my engine has just over 900 miles on it. Every vehicle I've ever owned has done better on fuel economy after 10,000 miles, and assuming this holds true, I expect to get nearly the same fuel economy I got out of my last truck, which was an '07 F150.
For an 8,000 lb truck, that ain't bad!
I haven't had my '08 for long enough to form a definitive number, but I seem to be getting between 15-16 MPG with a light foot on the highway...and my engine has just over 900 miles on it. Every vehicle I've ever owned has done better on fuel economy after 10,000 miles, and assuming this holds true, I expect to get nearly the same fuel economy I got out of my last truck, which was an '07 F150.
For an 8,000 lb truck, that ain't bad!
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