CapeFear562

Hi everyone, Im new to the board and have been searching around ALOT!! I have a ranger right now, but im looking at buying a F150 4X4. Are there years that are better than others or maybe years that are excessively trouble prone? Also, i have repeated read that 2.5" leveling kit will clear 35's, is that certain trims or all 4wd's? Thanks for yalls help!

Hokie_PhD

I'm not an expert but since no one else jumped in, I can tell you want I think based on the posts here. It seems that the newest models (04 to 08) have the least quirks. There are some minor issues like spark plug problems on earlier models, but nothing that would keep me from buying one if the deal was right (a decent price on a clean truck that I liked). You don't mention a budget, but you might want to look around and see what '08s are around in your area as there are some killer deals on the remaining trucks left. The only problem might be if you want a certain color and/or trim level.

As for the leveling kit I think you're right 35's should clear on all models. But you might want to do a quick search on the site to see. There's been a lot written about this.

rplatt56

35s will fit on a 4x4 with a 2.5". Might have to do a little mod on the lower valence corners but thats about it. As for model year, i would look for an 07 or 08 as the kinks have been fairly much worked out of these. Like in all new models, i would not buy the first production year. Let them work out the bugs first. I own two 07s and i'm very happy with both of them. Minor little things but nothing to get upset with. Warranty took care of that.

CapeFear562

thanks for all your help! I do have more question though, i have been looking at the new 09's and the 3v 4.6 with the 6 speed auto vs. the 5.4 with 6 speed auto. I was dead set on the 5.4, until i saw the 3v 4.6 and its projected numbers on the ford website. What is the consensus on the 3v 4.6 (note the only difference i saw between it and the 5.4 was the strike length) as well as the new 6 speed auto tranny being used.

Mod (Ret.)

Depends on what you plan to use your truck for. My one rule I always followed was "There's no replacement for displacement". If it's pulling power, then the 5.4. Be honest with your requirements.

Me, I own a 2005 SXT with a 4.2 V6. Great truck, great engine for my needs. I just pulled a trailer from Texas to Florida with my motorcycle and many boxes in the bed. I averaged 21 MPG on this trip. I usually get around 23 MPG when the truck is unloaded.
The spark plug issue for the 5.4 was only 2005 and early 2006 I believe.

Again, you have to decide what your truck will be used for. If 4 wheeling through the tundra is your intent, then the 5.4 would do better over the 4.6 V8. If mileage is a concern, then consider the 4.6. I have not read any bad reviews about the 4.6 here, but a few about the 5.4.

obusnizzle

if the 3V 4.6L can put a stock 5-spd 3700lb stang in mid 13s from the factory, it should be quite the motor for the truck with a 6 spd auto.

CapeFear562

The truck will have to serve several purposes...first it must commute 45 minute to work 5 days a week...second it must be able to pull the average trailer or boat because i live on a farm (i have a f350 for the heavy stuff)...and third it must off road capable for work (mostly mud and uneven terrain). I figured the 3v 4.6 to be offered in 2009 would be a good all around choice decent fuel mileage, but enough power to do what i need. I know what the 5.4 can do, and not sure i will NEED all that power, but i do WANT it. However, fuel mileage still plays a part so i guess i can sacrifice about 25 hp for another couple mpg on the highway. For what I can figure the 3V 4.6, 6 speed auto, 3.73 gears, 2.5" leveling kit, and 35's would probably do what i need. Any opinions. Sorry for the long post and all the questions

rplatt56

The MPGs between the 4.6 and 5.4 is not noticeable. I have one of each in 07 model year. My 5.4 actually gets a little better mileage then the 4.6 does. So if you want the power and good mpgs go with a 5.4.

whitecrystal1

I'm gonna move this to General Discussion section so you can get more opinions than just the 04-08 owner's.

If I was buying another F150 I would get an 08. They have more of the quirks worked out and I like the looks better then the new 09s.

r moore

I have a 95 F150, 5.0 HO,4r70w trans with 304,000 miles on her and still running strong no oil burn. It's not new but It,s loyal.