First Tow in the EX...Observations questions

[HEAVYHITTER]

Ok so I finally got to load the X the way I had envisioned before i bought it. (my truck is Box Stock except for gauges---For now) Did a 100 mile desert race this weekend and loaded a 16x8 ft trailer w/ 6 bikes, 6 peoples gear, and tools, and 6 5 gallon gas jugs. I stuffed 6 buddies in the X and made the 700 mile trip.

I didn't have a chance to hit a scale but figure the average weight was probably 185lbs per person or 1,100lbs, the trailer probably weighs 3K the bikes 1,380....Not a real heavy load by any stretch compared to what I see some of you guys hauling but I can say that it is very underpowered compared to my box stock 6.0l F250. The 6.0 would yank that thing around like no ones business. This of course is on its way to changing.

Couple observations. I can pull just over 17 on my boost gauge. My max egts were 1,100 which I thought was high for a stock truck given the load. I did notice the X wanted to wander a bit but it wasn't that bad. My mileage was about 11 round trip at about 62.5mph. I thought it would do a little better. The truck didn't look any different with the trailer attached and people in it...Didn't look saggy at all really.

So couple questions. I have the Helwig sway bar that will be installed soon. I also picked up a set of V code springs and am waiting to find some F codes.

What if anything should I expect by the addition/replacement of the springs and sway bar? I am sure it will be much closer to the ride and tow feeling of the 250 correct?

I am also concerned about maintaining the stance of the X with the swap and it appears the best way to do this is by cutting the leaf with the bump stop and using it on the bottom w/ a shim.

I know it may be redundant but I need to be refreshed as its taking a while to do everything.

Thanks,

[leros]

What year and what engine? Or did I miss that?

My 6.0L was pretty gutless pulling my ToyHauler until I ran a mild tune from the SCT XCal2. I changed gears to 4.30's and that helped alot with running a tune. Even with stock tire size it lacked in power.

[HEAVYHITTER]

2003 7.3L. My old now sold truck was a 2003 6.0L and the thing didn't even know weight was back there. Hopefully the X with a little work will be equal to the way my stock 6.0L was.