I am looking for a used F150 crew cab as a work truck/toy hauler. I have a landscaping business so I pull a 12’x6’ trailer with a small Kubota sub compact tractor and sometimes a couple of tons of mulch /stone. Right now I’m looking at a 2011 XLT with the 3.5 Ecoboost and a 2012 Lariat with the 5.0 V8. Does the Ecoboost have enough power to pull what I’m looking for or should I get the 302? I don’t know much about the Ecoboost so I was hoping to get some opinions on it. Also, what else should I be looking for in the 2011-2015 model range? Any problem areas or Recalls to look out for? Thanks

 

Honestly if you're pulling on a day to day basis, get a 2.7EB or a 3.5EB. The EcoBoosts tow like a dream. 3.5's can have timing issues (camshaft phasers, tensioners, chains) if poorly maintained. Early 5.0's (2011-2015) are pretty bulletproof.

 

The EB has more low-end power than the 5.0 for towing. But if I had such a business I'd be looking at a super duty with more capability.

 

Same here. A 1/2 ton and regular work doesn't make too much sense to me.

 

Well I have been working out of a Ranger with a 2.3 and it pulled everything I needed fine. I originally was looking for a Super Duty but decided that was overkill for what I do. The extra cost and gas don’t really make sense for me right now. My tractor only weighs about a ton so I think the 1/2 ton will be fine.

 

I currently have a 12 5.0 and a 14 eco. Both have 373 gears and nearly identical dimensions and weight. The 14 eco is HDPP. I pull trailers with both. A 30’ travel trailer that probably weighs near 6500 loaded for the road and a kubota in a cargo trailer, with accessories probably weighs in a little over 6000. Either truck works fine, neither is lacking for the task. The eco has more torque of course.

For general driving I like the 5.0 better, it’s a smoother running engine, smooth power, better sounding. I prefer it over the eco. Just my preference.

Test drive both and make your choice, I don’t think you can go wrong either way.

 

The 3.5EB has more torque and, when equally equipped, a higher tow rating. However, if towing often, the 5.0 will get better fuel mileage. The 3.5EB's torque comes at the cost of using more fuel.

Overall, I'd probably go 5.0 if shopping used and pre '18 trucks. I like the power of the 3.5EB and would recommend it if buying new, but the 5.0's seem to be less sensitive to the poor maintenance schedules that most people follow.

 

The key advantage a turbo charged engine has is towing at elevations.

 

Listen to the experts ....

 

That is only one dealership. EVERY F150 owned by employees at my local dealer are 3.5EB's. All are also tuned so that gives you an idea of the way they roll.