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[6SPDMANUAL]

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Well here is my take on the 450, 4:88's and fuel mileage. If you truly need the pulling/towing power of the 450 with 4:88's, than fuel mileage has to be a much lower consideration as to whether or not to choose this truck. I have spent over a year researching for a proper tow vehicle to tow a heavy trailer(22k pounds app). My options were: 1. a upfitted 550(cab chassis 450 was not offered with 4:88's)$75,000+ price tag, same fuel mileage
2. A MDT, such as a F-650, a Freightliner M2 (both powered with CAT C-7) or a International 4400LoPro with either the 466 or 570, all upfitted with hauler bed. Average price of these truck $89,000+. Towing mileage 8-11mpg
3. A retired HDT, such as a Volvo 610 or 770, converted for RV towing use, registered as a Not For Hire MH. Cost varies, but around $50,000. Towing mileage 6-11mpg
4. Available this year for the first time, a factory produced F-450 pickup with 4:88's rated to tow 24,500lbs. Cost $48-$58,000. Towing mileage 6-11mpg(according to actual owners I have personally talked to.
My decision was easy. I got a very nice, very comfortable, well built, dual purpose(pickup and tow vehicle) that the neighbors will not complain about. Sure it will not cruise at 75mph returning 16-19mpg, I don't think anyone who is needing the towing ability of this truck would expect that. I got a great warranty, decent price, low insurance and registration cost and by far(IMHO) the best looking big pickup this year. And the price wasn't too bad, either.

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thanks for the input. and yes, according to the knuckleheads at ford i need a 450. but the truth isi know i could easily get by with a SRW 3.73, with a manual. i have done it may times. bad thing is ford won't me get the truck i want. thats why the next one will mmore than likely be a dodge. 4k less for a truck i don't really want is better than 4k more for one that i don't really want.

thanks again guys.