I am ordering a new XLT and the process is interesting to say the least. There are definitely some ways to build it that are advantageous. For instance... I am ordering the sport package. I built the same truck with the $2150 301a package and the $5245 302a package. The 302a package gets a discount of $1250 more then the 301a. The price for the sports package goes from $1995 to $300 if you choose 302a. It is basically an end result of a few hundred more to get the 5k option package over the 2k option package.

I almost chose 301a to save 3k. I would have never realized how much I gave up for no reason.
Someone here pointed out about FX4 package including the locking rear plus other things in package for a little more then the cost of the locking rear alone.

Anything else to look out for when building an XLT?

 

Go for a lariat 502A and get the LED lights...

 

I would love to but hate leather. Need to stick with XLT. "Unique" cloth that comes with sport package is real nice.

 

XLT is a great value, If you are going with the 3.5 EB, max tow and fx4 each come with locking differential. No price advantage for going with both, something to look out for.

 

I am getting the 5.0 but good info for those getting the 3.5 EB

 

If I was going with the 5.0 I would seriously consider the 3.73 rear axle. I am looking at the 3.5 eco and leaning toward the HD payload package in large part due to the axle ratio. Unfortunately I cannot get the sport appearance package with HD payload nor can I get 302A. Not sure what Ford is thinking on those limitations. I too prefer cloth so am choosing XLT over Lariat.

 

You can get 302a package with sport and 5.0 that's what I have

 

Yes, but not 302A, Sport, & HD payload. Ford has made it impossible to get what I want. I've tried at least 10 ways, and always something that they won't allow. I want black interior (sport cloth is perfect) HD payload, and a nicely optioned truck. Can't get upper trim levels on XLT or Lariat with floor shift & HD payload. Sheer stupidity.

 

I believe you meant to say "Cannot get..." as the HD payload is only available in the basic levels of XLT (300/301 not 302) and Lariat (500 not 501/502). I do not understand this at all. I really want HD payload and may just end up going XLT 301 as that seems to be the most optioned truck available in HD.

 

also watch out for wheel type and body paint colors. some combinations aren't allowed. and can't remember the specific, but it can make a difference what motor and certain options being do able or not.....had to do with a certain wheel being abailable on 3.5EB and 5.0, but not available w/ 2.7EB. just remember when you think you've got it all in order, go through item by item to make sure something didn't get booted off the list when changing certain things.