So pretty torn and would appreciate input from here. Currently I have a 2016 XLT 301A with 3.5EB, RWD.

I am thinking about upgrading to 2019 XLT 302A with 3.5EB. The specific things gained from this upgrade are: second gen 3.5EB (10hp / 50torque gain), 10spd trans, 4x4, trailer brake controller, 36gal fuel tank. Everything else remains effectively same.

I live in FL so 4x4 is not required for 99% of what I do but I have been in a handful of situations where RWD has left me in precarious situations (e.g. steep gravel roads in GA mtns). I do have a locker, which has helped.

I guess specifically, I am mostly concerned about 2nd gen 3.5EB and the newer 10spd trans. In searching the forum, there appears to be some issues, but not sure how widespread they really are. The whole "Ford sells millions of these, only the handful of issues arise / get forum attention" thing could be at play here. Any thoughts / concerns on the new engine and trans? I have had ZERO issues with current truck, hate to risk getting new truck with issues.

Thanks!

 

You get one shot at life.....go for it!

 

I have a '19 502A FX4 3.5eb 10 spd, with 4800 miles in 4 months.
Mileage includes a 1500 and 500 mile road trip.
So far it has been great, zero complaints.
God forbid this truck gets stolen or totaled, but if it did, I'de buy the same truck again.

 

42k miles on my 2017, and love it. It gets even better with a tune.

I'm torn as you are. If your 2016 is good, stick with it. If you'll appreciate the upgrades in the 2019, do it!
4x4....just good to have IMO.

 

That statement is exactly the truth, F-series sales are over 900,000 a year. That said, there's no guarantee you won't have a problem with your truck, no matter who makes it. No single manufacturer is having significantly greater problems that another. If breakdown costs are a concern, you can offset that by purchasing insurance against them.

 

The 2nd gen 3.5 is better than the first gen.
The trans is what it is... in the vast majority of cases, you just have to get used to it. It whines a little at low speed. Sometimes, it shifts a little wonky... but, on balance, it's still the best transmission I've ever had in a truck.

Big question is, can you afford it? Your 16 is likely close to payoff or already paid off. Your 19, probably starting over with 4-5 years of payments. Never underestimate the power of not having a car payment.

 

Thanks. Yes, without getting weird about money, payment is not an issue. If dealer gets me trade KBB / Carfax suggest, I will have effectively had a cheap lease on current truck.

My biggest concern is that transmission. Been polarizing. Heard amazing things and also terrible things. I have no gripes with current 6spd. Really wish I could go back and have gotten 4x4 on current truck. Sigh...

Issues I have seen about the trans seem to be sporadic. Not a clear defined xxxxx issue that was addressed. This is what gives me pause.

 

The 2nd gen 3.5 is better than the first, that's an all around upgrade.

The 10 speed transmission really seems good. Loving mine so far and complaints seem few and far between to me...with most complaints being nit picky like oh there's one shift one time that's rough after a cold start. I mean if that's the only complaint...well done Ford.

I'd be really hesitant to upgrade from a 13th gen to a 13th gen with the next gen coming out in a year, though. Your truck is already the new style (close enough, the '18 facelift didn't change that much) but even a brand new truck right now will be old in a year. I'd wait and look at what the new 2021 will have to offer and either get a new-new truck, or a fire-sale on an outgoing old-new 2019 once the 20's are dropping. I realize that having a 2019 I didn't do that myself lol, but I was driving a 2011 GMC SUV, if I had had a 15+ F150, I definitely would have waited it out

Also if you are interested in power, I'll bet a simple tune on your current truck surpasses a stock newer truck...


Buuut if it's what you want, go for it. There is absolutely no reason to worry about the gen2 3.5 or the 10 speed. Well, other than the ever present thing where the one you have is good and you know it (so far) and any new vehicle will always have some risk

 

I would say go for it, rebates are good and you aren't asking about going from 302A to 302A, so the creature comfort improvement is significant.

I would offer up two things:
1. Why not go for the 2.7L? It sounds like you are just now adding a TBC, which makes me think you aren't using one now (or maybe have aftermarket), but either way probably not a truck equipped for heavy trailer towing, which is where the 3.5L is needed. My 2019 2.7L w/ 10 speed is averaging 19.5MPG with 80+% city driving, and gets mid 20s on the highway. Despite the higher HP/Torque numbers on the 3.5L, it gets to 60 at essentially identical times as the 2.7L due to Ford sandbagging both engines in the first few gears to save strain on the driveline.

2. Have you priced out going Lariat 500a or 501a? Even going 500a, you get auto climate and push button start, 4x4 auto, etc. The 4x4 Auto would be very nice for your use case, since it sounds like your biggest concerns are while driving in unpredictable traction situations, where manual 4x4 like you have now requires you to react if 4x4 is called for.

Anyway, just ideas, I know the 3.5L Eco is MOAR POWA, but in reality it doesn't make itself known except under heavy towing situations, which is where the 3.5L is an absolute monster.

 

To the above, I agree, I would opt for a 2.7 unless

-You absolutely have to have a V8 exhaust note
-You will spend $10-$12k to supercharge the V8
-You will be towing 'heavy', like 7k+ regularly
-You will tune/modify for more power
-You want a 302A or higher truck and need the extra payload capacity of a 5.0 or 3.5 truck (the 2.7's come with a 400 lb lower GVWR and thus lower payload)


Which means that, for most people, objectively, the 2.7 is the better choice. Better mileage than the 3.5 or 5.0, just as quick/fast, tows light/moderate loads well, at least as reliable as the others if not more...Ford nailed that engine.