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Let's look at this again... maybe there is good news here. Yes, it's true there is no HDPP offered (at least by that name). But, if you download the order guide (find it here).you will see that Ford is offering a "Tow/Haul Package (53T)" which is available on all trim levels. It looks like it replaces the trailer tow and max trailer tow packages, as it includes a bunch of towing related items (trailer brake controller, e-locker, and other stuff on higher trims).
HOWEVER, it also has the option to add Max Tow Axles (3.55 XL5 or 3.75 XL7) and says "Max Tow Axle required for maximum trailer tow capability."
It looks like the online "Build and Price" page calls these Axle Ratios w/ Tow Haul.... (a bit unusual, I guess)
This sounds a whole lot like HDPP, but now available across the board!!
Might sound like HDPP, but payload is well short of HDPP. Unfortunate for those who need the payload for work; guess that means Super
Duty or Heavy Duty for those applications.
Might sound like HDPP, but payload is well short of HDPP.
Ford on 2023 F-150: Best-in-class maximum available payload of 3,310 pounds !!
Ford on 2024 F-150: Best-in-class maximum available payload of 2,455 pounds !!
OK, take the "maximum available payload" ratings with a grain of salt. Has anyone actually seen a late-model HDPP with a payload sticker above 3,000 pounds? I haven't, but 2,800-2,900 pounds was realistically possible. My 2023 HDPP was configured with payload-killing options like SuperCrew, 4x4, factory skid plates, and factory spray-in bedliner, and it still came in at 2,478 pounds.
It's now guaranteed that no one will be getting F-150 payload stickers above 2,455 pounds in 2024, even with the Tow/Haul Package. And I bet the real-world numbers will fall noticeably short of that level.
Unfortunate for those who need the payload for work; guess that means Super Duty or Heavy Duty for those applications.
Yep. I got a 2023 HDPP to haul a lightweight pop-up truck camper. It's worked out well, but I would be looking at an F-250 if I was buying in 2024.
I read on one of the sites - I think it was Ford Authority that HDPP was dropped by Ford because the vast majority never ordered it. They also quoted Ford as saying despite the lower new highest payload it should not impact the vast majority of buyers because of how they historically have optioned their trucks anyway - with many options that lowered from the previous highest payload to something less. Their estimation is this maintains a sweet spot that will work for most, still keeps them ahead of the competition and serves their goal of lessening various options across trims. Will try to find the article link.
Depending on the configuration, you could get a really nice super crew two-wheel drive with over 2,000 lb of payload. I have a few door stickers of them.
I'm so ticked they got rid of the 6.5 ft bed, on two wheel drive. But I'm coming around to just getting the 5.5 ft with the two-wheel drive STX 5.0 with Max tow. Should have over 2,000 lb of payload if nothing changes. Very respectable for towing a reasonable camper. Under 7k lbs and being safe.
It appears that I simply cannot replace my current truck for under $60K, and my needs are pretty modest. I can't see myself considering another F-150 unless they make more options available on the low end.
I do wonder how much CAFE games play into this. It seemed like those were likely a reason that HDPP was kept a low-volume option (because I'd have to think a lot of people who are going to run LT tires anyhow would have happily spent a little more at purchase for that much more payload).
Yeah, I guess CAFE does have an influence on the availability.
Forcing buyers into a 5.0 or 3.5 if they want a towing package does not help CAFE.
I am starting to wonder if Ford had a coherent plan or if it was a case of a bunch of underlings scrambling to meet arbitrary executive goals. I'm leaning towards the latter right now.
09-13-2023, 10:12 PM
