New ford buyer 3.5L V6 Ti-VCT question
#11
I'd like to think I'm qualified to answer the OP's question, coming from a 15' w/3.5na then upgrading to a 16' w/5.0.
The 3.5na is a completely satisfactory engine for light duty use and good on gas, had zero issues with it....that being said I did upgrade my truck in size, options and engine before it was scheduled for it's first oil change!
Most people aren't stupid like I am and change their minds so quickly to trade up but if you're budget conscience then you'll be happy with the 3.5na
The 3.5na is a completely satisfactory engine for light duty use and good on gas, had zero issues with it....that being said I did upgrade my truck in size, options and engine before it was scheduled for it's first oil change!
Most people aren't stupid like I am and change their minds so quickly to trade up but if you're budget conscience then you'll be happy with the 3.5na
#12
First of all, Thanks to everyone for the helpful insight. This is my first big purchase and new from the dealership so i want to make sure i have all the facts and opinions before i go.
As for my location, I live in Orlando fl and i tow a 23 ft boat to go fishing a couple times a month. Along with the usual manual labor errands for working around the house but that's nothing any truck can't handle. I'm thinking about upgrading to a larger boat in a couple years but prob won't go anything above 5000 lbs
As for my location, I live in Orlando fl and i tow a 23 ft boat to go fishing a couple times a month. Along with the usual manual labor errands for working around the house but that's nothing any truck can't handle. I'm thinking about upgrading to a larger boat in a couple years but prob won't go anything above 5000 lbs
#13
Honestly curious but why do you want the non eco v6? It doesn't really make the power needed for these trucks. If you want something that is tried and true, go with the 5.0. It's not that much more and your truck won't be incredibly underpowered. Further, your resale value with be higher because you would have an engine people desire.
#15
Senior Member
The 3.5 NA has to be a great motor as they put it in a large amount of fleet/work trucks.
But, don't drive the 2.7. The low-end grunt of the 2.7 will make the 3.5 NA feel kinda weak and poor.
But, don't drive the 2.7. The low-end grunt of the 2.7 will make the 3.5 NA feel kinda weak and poor.
#16
I'm from Bennington , Ne
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Curmudgeon (07-06-2016)
#17
Senior Member
Honestly curious but why do you want the non eco v6? It doesn't really make the power needed for these trucks. If you want something that is tried and true, go with the 5.0. It's not that much more and your truck won't be incredibly underpowered. Further, your resale value with be higher because you would have an engine people desire.
#18
Drive them before you decide. The 3.5na is solid. 95% of the people on here don't need a 5.0 or eb. And for asking who would want one...me! People that want a reliable motor without turbos and better mpg than a 5.0 can offer.
#19
Senior Member
I have the 3.5na in my '11 explorer. Haven't had a single problem and it pulls light trailers fine. I'm not gonna win any up hill speed trials whole towing but it's a great engine.
#20
Senior Member
I would say that if you're worried about saving some money, the 3.5 NA is a good engine. It's a solid choice and reliable. For me, I felt it to be underpowered in the 4x4 SuperCrew configuration that I was looking for. I really enjoy my 2.7L EcoBoost. As others have said here, if you are worried about the turbos (which the problems have been virtually ironed out now), then go with the 5.0. It's a proven engine and is much stronger with better torque for towing your boat.