You only put it in 4A when you need it, you don't have it on all the time. And 4A is standard on 2012 Lariat, Harley, King Ranch, and Platinum. I know it became standard on Lariat in 2012, but must be for Platinum also.

 

You can get an e-locker on a Platinum model - it is standard on the FX4. Yes, the Platinum has 4A while the FX4 does not.

I would think the 18" wheels would provide a better ride than 20" wheels regardless of trim. The off-road pkg on the FX4 might cancel some of that advantage out.

An FX4 with the Luxury Pkg is a really nice truck and damn close to a Platinum. The Platinum comes pretty much loaded and once you load up an FX4, the prices are not too far apart.

Best of luck and keep us posted on how you make out with your decision.

 

Elocker comes with max tow on the platinum

 

I didn't notice that option online and I thought the FX4 comes standard with off-road options (skid plates, 4x4) is there a separate option? What is included?

I noticed the Platinum and FX4 prices come very close once I added the Lux package. I still have to spend on the cap (going ARE probably) and I need a rack on top for a platform for shoots (and I'll need to figure out how to get up there). That's a different problem.

I really appreciate the help. I'm hoping to finalize the order this week. Question, what is the build/wait times on the 2013s now?

 

Fx4's are stock piled in KC awaiting dealer shipment... Platinums are not being built yet

 

Even though you stole [my] girl, I'll still offer some advice.

I'm a pro photographer and I do long highway drives (thousands of miles) and some off road for location shoots. I saw another thread about choosing the FX4 versus the Platinum and it helped; I've narrowed it down to just a few points, what do you guys think?


This is just my opinion; however, looking at your use, the plain and simple is the FX4 will most likely fit your needs the best and at a little lower overall cost.

On the highway, the FX4 will be very comfortable; moreover, when you show up at the job site, it has the balance of both class and toughness.

Also, I would go with the 18" wheels, the ride will be better due to the increased rubber and taller sidewall; moreover, and I want to stress this--while 20's look great (pretty) they just will not perform as well off the highway in the mountains and out in the desert, including the snow. 17's, as on the Raptor would be even better; but the rubber on the 18's will give your wheels and stems adequate/more protection than a 20" with lower profile rubber.

A nice new FX4 will look at home on a shoot in Beverly Hills or NYC, as well as in Jackson Hole or Aspen; pick a good color and try and keep it clean between shoots and you will show up in style. Also, if you are out in the boonies and the weather changes, you will have an extra level of confidence with the FX4. The 4X4 system in the FX is very versatile and will perform for you in the mountain snow and on a sandy beach in the summer.

I am 98% certain that I will sell my XLT and pick up a new '13 FX4 in the very near future. I am going for the EB and will load it up with creature comforts which I miss with my XLT. Still debating over White, Black or that nice new Ruby Red.

 

People have no idea what they're talking about in this thread.

On rough low-maintenance roads, counterintuitively, the FX4 front end rides better.

18" wheels will always offer a more comfortable ride than 20" wheels.

If you're in the land of frost-heaved roads, get the 18" wheels.

Painted bumpers chip.

 

Excellent advice guys, thank you very much.

Oddly, the two dealers I've been to have not helped guide me at all, but in their defense, I did walk in with Internet print outs from Ford's site so they probably thought I knew what I wanted. There are many options to figure out.

See attached map of my photo shoots over the past 10 years -- all driven to (including NWT and Labrador). As I said, I drive a lot.

 

The platinum comes with extra sound deadening and rain sensing wipers, as well as softer leather and more luxury feel. If you can afford the platinum, it's a damn nice ride.

 

Get the best of both worlds. Order a platinum with an FX4 tailgate.