If you are gonna tow, I would get a 3.5. This is coming from a 2.7 guy.

 

It seems like a consensus. Get the 2.7eb if you are not going to tow. Get the 3.5eb if you are going to tow.

 

Sounds like the 2.7 will be fine for you. (personally, I'd go V8 tho)


That said, I'd go for a Larry if I were you. I was reading a thread about the 4x4 and they say the Larry (and above) has the upgraded system including 4A feature. If it's a money thing, go for a 2016 which they are giving away about now . . .


I also have 3.73 rear end which is the largest available in the 1/2 ton trucks.


TomJV

 

you are correct, got my number mixed up.

 

Is it mandatory to run premium gas in the Eco boost engines? I've noticed everyone seems to mention that slot.

 

I don't. I don't remember the manual recommending it either.

 

Not mandatory, just recommended under severe usage such as towing. Below is in my 2016 Manual:

We recommend regular unleaded gasoline
with a minimum pump (R+M)/2 octane
rating of 87. Some fuel stations offer fuels
posted as regular unleaded gasoline with
an octane rating below 87, particularly in
high altitude areas. We do not recommend
fuels with an octane rating below 87.

For vehicles with EcoBoost engines, to
provide improved performance, we
recommend premium fuel for severe duty
usage such as trailer tow.

 

lots of good comments already. with hwy use, the 2.7 will get the best mpg by far. at a steady 65-70 23-25 mpg is the norm (I'm talking screw 4x4). same speeds in 3.5 eco 19-21 (personal experience owning 2). towing light, 2.7 has a huge advantage in mpg. I towed a medium trailer across country a few months ago and got almost 15 mpg in the 2.7. the 3.5 was 11/12 same trailer and speeds.

2.7 and ​​​​3.5 similar power until around 60 mph but on hwy, the eco has torque is spades everywhere. the 2.7 is still strong but not as effortless as the 3.5 at say 80 mph up a hill. 3.5 is also stronger towing but I only noticed a large diff above 6k lbs.

 

I'd go with the 3.5 over the 2.7 More HP and Torque which will really help on hilly terrain and a heavier trailer. The cost difference is so minimal up front why settle for the smaller 2.7?


There's the 2018 5.0 option with direct and port injection. Pulling lighter loads should be fine and the mileage when not towing is very good. Two of my friends get 20+mpgs empty at highway speeds(70-75). I've seen it hand calculated on a long drive. This was a 2015 XLT with the 5.0 in it and 6 speed tranny.


The V8 will very likely be more reliable too.

 

Just my option, all motors are great choices depending on your preferences. For me, I narrowed my selection down to either the 5.0 or the 2nd gen 3.5 EB. The 5.0 is the classic V8 sound, and a good motor. The 3.5 EB had dual injection (for 2017) and a 10 spd auto. I ended up going with the 3.5 EB because I got a better deal on it.

I have been averaging about 20 mpg in mixed driving. My last road trip at about 3hrs and 65 mph was a 22-23 mpg average. I've got the Fx4 package, 20" ford rims, sport package, 36 gallon tank, and 3.31 rear end.

No matter which way you go, get the 36 gallon tank! Believe me you will thank yourself later.