I've contacted another local dealer (Holmes Tuttle Ford) and they may be able to help me order the truck I'm wanting. But one thing I've noticed in my research is that none of the 5 closest dealers to me have the Audiophile in 4x2 Lariats. Some of the 4x4s do have that. Yet at the "Build Your Own Ford" feature it is listed as an option. Does Ford only allow 4x4s Lariats to have the Audiophile?

 

i think all you need is the 6 disc cd and then you can upgrade to it.

 

The audiophile system is only available to Lariat, FX4 and STX owners of either 4x2 or 4x4 drive configurations. Its not just limited to 4x4's, and it is more than just a 6 disc head unit. If you have the 6 disc changer already you can't just run back to the dealership and have audiophile added to your truck.

 

The non-audiophile 6 disc changer isn't the same as the one that comes with the audiophile. The audiphile one has more power, like 80 watts I believe.

 

as mentioned above, the audiophile is not a retrofit to a factory 6 disc changer. Order the complete system (factory audiophile 6 cd change and matching audiophile amp) or forget it.

 

I have a Lariat Scab 4x2 with audiophile. Best thing about the truck after the engine! I believe it's the best factory sound system I've ever had.

 

I believe you. The Lariat I test drove last Wednesday had the 6 cd change without the audiophile. The salesguy tried to impress me at one point by cranking the stereo. It sounded horrible. It's worse than the single cd sound system in my XLT (which rocks pretty good for low end factory). I appreciate the help. The people at Holmes said they will do a search in my state for a truck that matches my specs. If they can't find one they said they will order it customized for me. Looks like I'm back in the game!!!

 

Toredor, it's non of my business what your up to, but why on earth did you buy an 04 XLT just a few weeks ago and now want to get rid of it for a Lariat? I've drove many Ford trucks of all levels (xl, xlt, lariat and now fx4) and IMO there isn't enough difference between them to interest me in trading trucks after just a couple months. The extended cab Lariat will ride just like the extended cab XL model the only difference will be power windows, locks and other "Creature Comforts". Atleast you're sticking with Ford and not switching to another Manufacture.

 

Ultra, I'm only doing what the majority of people here on this board are doing. Some here spend a couple thousand to increase horsepower. I'll be going from 231 hp to 300 hp by moving from the 4.6L to the 5.4L engine. There's more features on the Lariat, so I'm paying for those upgrades as well. Yes, the ride is very similar, but I think lowering the back end and replacing the 18" wheels with 17" wheels will make the Lariat a smoother, more comfortable, better handling ride. Since now they are equal, those changes will make the "luxury" Lariat even more comfortable. I love the look of my XLT, but made a mistake in color choice. It's a stunning elegant dark red, but requires regular washing. I'm just not that type of loyality to keeping it clean. My 99' Ranger looked good even when dirty, cause it was the same gold color my (potential) new Lariat will be. I'm also thinking of the tow package (even tho I don't tow) just to have in case I do plus it includes an upgrade in radiator, alternator, battery, and another engine upgrade I forget right now. Bottom line is I'm upgrading, just like others on this forum are doing, tho in a different manner. The deal is far from done, but at this point looks very promising. And finally, as far as which manufacturer I choose, it's not brand loyalty. If Chevy or Dodge had the better truck out right now, that's where I'd be. I've driven all three and the current F150 is clearly the better ride and the handling is stunning.