Hello, what is the deal with the Expedition and tow package. We live in western Az and have been trying to find a 2000-2001 Expedition with 5.4L and tow package and they are NONEXISTENT!! Is this because this option is expensive and no one wanted it, or is it because it's not worth the expense. We tow a 27' travel trailer in the desert and feel the tow package is essential. Are we wrong?? Help if you have any ideas on the subect. Thanks, John

 

That's about all they had on the dealer lots (2002 models) in NE. Suited me fine, we were looking for an XLT with 5.4 and tow package.

 

Keep looking, they are out there and I would highly recommend that the truck you buy has it if you plan on towing on a regular basis.

Unfortunitly (not a speeling bee, I) the vast majority of vehicals, be they cars or light trucks, are spec'd and ordered by the verious dealers (fleet manager, etc.) They do have "forecasting" tools in the form of product information packages supplied by the manufacture. For instance Ford includes with the Expy info pak, a list of all possible options, possible combinations of options, otions that require other options (such as moonroof requires selection of EB or some such). They also provide a combonations of "popular option packages" such as auto trans, pw, pb, am-fm cass., ect. Ford also "forecast" or reccomends a mix of what the dealer should order. For example, if the dealer is ordering ten Expys, Ford would recommend that 3 of them be EB 5.4L 4 WD, 1 of them an EB 4.6L 2 WD, 2 of them XLT 5.4L 4WD, etc.

It is then up to the dealer rep to order what HE thinks will sell. This guy doesn't spend a lot of time thinking about your favorites when ordering trucks. This fact is shown by, in your area a perception of "Tow Package" shortage. Fact is the dealers may not think it important enough to "spend" the extra dollars to add this option or other "hidden options" (those not seen by most buyers) to the trucks they order for their stock.

The dealers reasoning might be very simple indeed. They might have few customers that express interst or request for the option. The dealer might want to use the "cost" advantage to let them to sell their stock for less, as it appears to the unsuspecting at least.

I think that the factory towing package is, at least to me a very desirable option indeed, what is included are items that can help make any truck live a longer life. Included with the Expy package are, Super engine cooling (larger radiator, oil cooler & trans cooler) this in addition to the reciver hitch and wiring harness. Also, not included as part of the tow package but ordered on a lot of the trucks that came from the factory with it is the all important limited slip rear end. A good percentage have the 3.73 gears as well, these being a better choice then the 3.55's if you plan on towing. heck you may even find one that has the automatic load leveling suspension too, I did.

I highly recommend you to check out the "Towing" conferance on this site, lots of good advice available there.

Of course many of these items can be added to your truck through aftermarket suppliers and it can be hard enough to find a good example of the truck you want, let alone all the color and other choices you want.

Good luck and happy hunting. Remember, the "thrill of the chase" can make the enjoyment of the truck last just that much longer. I know because it took me months to find what I wanted, and to find it in the condition I demanded, of course I had the advantage of time, not needing it but instead wanting it will help your negotiations alot.

Petrol
99 XLT 5.4L, 2WD, 3.73 limited slip, tow pak, auto load leveling, rear air, 3rd row seat, CD changer, lighted running boads, keyless entry, Estate Green, like new w/ low miles and remander of factory warranty
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