F-150 Feedback

[BEEF706]

I am thinking of replacing my 97 Dakota with a new pickup (not a Truck, right XRP?). Currently I am impressed with the Ford F-150. What I'm looking for is feedback on some of the poertrain combinations. I will use it as an everyday driver and to haul my bike to races a couple of times a month. I am also in the process of getting a 6x10 enclosed trailer that I want to use for my "race headquarters" my options are 4.2 liter 6 with a 5-speedmanual, 4.2 liter 6 with 4-speed auto and 4.6 liter 8 with 5-speed manual. Anyone have these combinations who can give me a real world estimate of mileage and how well it would pull the trailer? ( the trailer is 900 lbs and there would probably be less than 500 lbs going in it.

 

[mx547]

i have a 97 f-150 with a 4.6 auto. i pull a 6x12 enclosed trailer, 1325 lbs empty. mileage without trailer, 16 mpg, with trailer 10 mpg. i would prefer a stronger motor. next time, i'll get the 5.4.

 

[G. Gearloose]

Everytime we buy we give each American brand a test to give each a fair shake. Test drove a brand new 2000 4.6 autoOD. Couldn't do a normal pass at highway speed on level ground without shifting out of OD. we were not impressed. Without divulging my bias, I suggest you make the time to also try similary equipped brands, they are vey different in many areas, especially in the under 5-liter class. You'll feel more confident in whatever you decide.

 

[Camstyn]

If you're pulling a trailer, I would definitely get a standard transmission.. The 4.2 V6 is a good motor and gets decent fuel mileage but has no low end torque, bad choice IMHO for pulling anything.

 

[chowder6]

QUICK TIP! ...the inline 6 is a better motor than the 302 v8...i've heard tons of horror stories about the bottom end going out on the 8 cylinders very early

 

[Camstyn]

the 302 v8 was an excellent motor, but it's a 289ci now.

 

[Okiewan]

Get the 5.4 in a 150.... I pulled a 3,800 loaded trailer with ease with my 2000 F150 4x4.

 

[BigBore]

Ditto on finding a 5.4L. My buddy's gotta '98 F250 with the 4.6L and a 5-speed. Its a real turd towing a 2500lb enclosed trailer. I wouldn't even consider the 4.2L for towing anything.

 

[BEEF706]

Thanks for the input guys, I kinda wish you could do a towing test at the dealership! Maybe I'll see what a used 5.4 will set me back.

 

[lawman]

i have a '00 f-150 w/5.4L & towing pkg, it's a hauling sob, for a 1/2-ton. it has just over 60k on it, so far it's needed only brake pads, oil changes, rotations, & wiper fluid. it's been a great vehicle. i really like the 5.4.

 

[BSWIFT]

If you can find one, get the 5.4V8 with a 3.55 LS rear end.  The 4.6L is a good engine but is a bit under powered heavily loaded.  We've got 135K on ours with negligable problems(ie:vacuum lines).