LTC F

My problem with aluminum in structural components (and I are a mechanical engineer btw) is metal fatigue and to a lesser degree corrosion. Aluminum doesn't flex well...actually it flexes very well....but it fatigues easy. I wouldn't like to see it in any load bearing portion of the frame. I know it's been done...I just don't like it. Picture the Ecoboost growing pains but instead of hesitation it's the frame cracking. Aluminum also does weird stuff corrosion wise when it comes in contact with other metals.

I wouldn't mind seeing aluminum body panels on a steel frame....but frankly I'd rather just see a composite (nice name for plastic) bed like the Sport Tracs had.

jeffinthebag

All f150's since the new body style of 1997 to the present all have aluminum hoods. So all they will be doing is adding some more pieces of aluminum.

Crab Balls

The other aspect is aerodynamics, or lack of good ones on our trucks. Sure someone pointed out the Freightliner trucks are aluminum, but they also are carrying a load most of their travel time. I know some trucks/vans are scary driving during a moderate crosswind. Could you imagine how scary or unsafe that would be if the same vehicle were 700# lighter?

BassAckwards

The 97-03 body styles were about 1000lbs light so that point seems a little moot.

jollyroger331

Agreed, a 700 lb lighter is not going to make for a scarier ride in any way.

And I disagree with th guy who said its not federal mpg mandate driven. The government has not made the mpg mandate optional, it is a requirement.

cptbimes

In order to get the weight savings they are after I see no other choice but to start replacing structural components with aluminum.

I too thought about the body shop world. Panels would be much thicker than steel counter parts but lighter at the same time.

Isn't Ford just getting over a class-action suit over 2000-2007 aluminum hoods corroding?

Crab Balls

I also have an 01 F150 Supercrew, what are you comparing it to that it is 1,000# lighter? I'll have to look up the weight but I think it might be a bit lighter than my 2013 Limited, but not near a 1,000#. The 01 seems a bit better in the aerodynamics department. I don't think it is moot, just different characteristics.

BassAckwards

A 2003 2wd super crew 5.5ft bed with 5.4V8 weighs 4700lbs. A 2010 all options same weighs 5300, with 4wd it weighs 5625.

So I was a little off but it's the same weight difference as the aluminum body at the very least. A 2010 4wd super crew 6.5ft bed does weigh 1000lbs more though.

The transition from C-Channel frame to the fully boxed frame made the biggest weight difference as far as I can tell.

Left Plate

Ever heard of Wilson Trailer? How about Featherlight Trailers? You may want to re-think your above statement!

Mikemeek

My 2010 got light hail damage all over he aluminum hood, but he roof was fine. It was only pea to dime sized. My father-in-law has the same issue. I just wish it was a little more durable down here where we get a lot of hail.