First, I don't have the V10, but I've been monitoring this and other forums for quite a while now, so I can give some summary opinions based on what I've seen posted.
- impressions: LOTS O POWER, I've never heard of any complaints of 'lack of power'.
This is even with folks who have the auto tranny. The 5sp (which I have) will seem even better at times.. No loss of power in the torque converter..
- Folks seem to be in the 11 mixed, 13 highway.. I've seen a few 14's posted..
Again, this is mostly from folks with the auto tranny, with the 5sp you'll be able to squeeze an extra 1 or 2 mpg out of it I think.
- engine quality: again, I've heard no grumblings at all for Y2K models.. In some 99 models there was a piston slap issue on a very small number.. Nothing compared to the number seen with the V8.
Side note:
With the V10 + 5sp, your rear end options are 3.73, 4.30, or 4.30LS (limited slip).
So if limited slip is important to you, you'll have to go with the 4.30LS, or switch to an auto tranny where you can get a 3.73LS.
The only complaint I've heard on the V10:
-The exaust sound isn't as meaty as a V8.
But, the only folks who hear it are those driving the V8 which is now behind you..
If you decide you want a 3.73-ratio rear axle with limited slip differential, it is avaialble on the F350 with single rear wheels. That's what I ordered.
Let me know what you think of your truck after you receive it on 1/24. (bet your chomping at the bit to get it in). I noticed your in Austin. Who's your dealer? Do you think you got a good deal?
I think that combination is the way to go if you have a hard time justify in the $4500 PSD.
Good info on the F350 and LS. I definitely want the LS. Speaking of F250 & F350; have you been able to tell the differance in the drive line and suspension between the two? I've counted the springs on front and rear axles and I can't tell the difference. Spring count is the same. (Optional payload packages changes things of course).
JLindner.... I've gone through two bits and I'm halfway through the third.
I strongly recommend researching these forums (current and archived) for information before deciding on a model and options. If you do your homework, you'll know a lot more than most salesmen. You will find some misinformation here, but if you keep reading it usually gets corrected by a subsequent post. If you order your truck, this site certainly makes the wait more tolerable.
I decided I couldn't really justify the diesel. Cost, maintenance differences, and my needs were all factors. But both engines are good choices as far as I'm concerned. I ended up ordering my truck from Leif Johnson Truck City in Buda. Good folks, good allocation for Super Duties, good price ($350 over invoice and $500 deposit). I suggest you avoid Maxwell Ford (sales and service departments).
Its my understanding the only differences between the F250 and the F350 are springs and tires, both of which translate to a higher GVWR and available payload for the F350. The following links discuss the pros and cons of the two models.
Lastly, I also recommend www.carprice.com for its specs and option cost/availability info. It was very accurate last time I checked. I'll be sure to post information about my truck once it arrives. I would be particularly interested in hearing about which shops in our area provide good service. Regards.
The 11/13 is consistent with my mileage. The power is very good. I pulled a skid loader recently (9,000) and I had pleny of power. However the mileage did suffer (8 mpg). I would suggest the LS option. These trucks are heavy and without the LS, you will tend to dig a hole in loose material.
I agree with you, that is why I got the V-10. I have the 4.30 LS & 4X4. Mileage is around 10 city, 14 highway (I avg. 80 mph when cruising). Very happy with V-10, lots of torque, power. No tranny problems. Only trouble has been left front brake rotor. i can beat 5.0 Mustangs up to around 55 or 60MPH! Fuel economy could be better. Check out some of the chips available. Many people report more MPG (2-4 min.) The new motor has more HP & Torque. Unless you need the LS rear end (kinda' dumb not to with the 4X4) then get the 3.73. I get tired of my better half complaining about how much $$ I spend on gas!.
I just bought an Excursion with the V10 and am pretty happy with it. The engine has plenty of power for my needs.
As for mileage, I took a 400-mile trip last Saturday and got 13.2 calculated (computer said 13.6) on the highway at 65MPH with 4.30 gears. This is actually better than I was expecting based on what I've heard here.
The only towing I've done so far was a 50-mile trip on Sunday with about 2,000 pounds worth of snowmobiles. Speeds were around 45-65 MPH and I couldn't even tell the trailer was there.
I love the V10. I have a 99 F350 SC SRW 4x4 auto with 4.30ls gears. I can easily smoke the tires on dry pavement if I want. I'm impressed with the power and acceleration (this coming from a guy that rides a Honda Super Blackbird). I haul a 4000 lb camper occasionally and it has no problem with the weight even when going up the mountain passes in Washington state. Due to my lead foot, stop and go driving, and many hills, I only get 9mpg around town. 10mpg hauling the camper on the highway (including going up mountain passes). Best mileage was 12.5mpg on my only highway trip unloaded at 65 mph. These figures are calculated (not from overhead computer).
Like others in this forum, I can't justify the $3600 cost of the PSD along with it's other negatives. I suppose I would think differently if I was hauling a 10,000 lb fiver in the mountains of Colorado and putting 100,000 miles a year on the truck. Of course, then there's the testosterone factor of having a "real truck engine" if you have the PSD.
[This message has been edited by Harald (edited 01-18-2000).]
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Y2K F350 CC DRW LWB 4x4 Lariat 4R100 V10 4.30ls.
98 Alpenlite Pendelton 11'10 slide-in camper.
Remove I_HATE_SPAM_ from email address to email me.
Just did my first true MPG test with the below vehicle (V-10, 4.30LS, 4X4, Crew Cab Longbed, SRW). I went 410 miles on 34.7 gallons which equals 11.8 miles per gallon. This was a combination of highway and stop & go city driving. I do have a very lead foot and cruise avg. 80-85 on the turnpike to work when traffic permits.
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