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Old     (guido)      Join Date: Jul 2002       05-11-2014, 9:03 AM Reply   
Now that the trucks have some miles on them, how are you guys liking your F150's with the Ecoboost motors?

I am on the fence about a new truck. Right now I'm debating between a 2014 Ecoboost and a Ram 2500 CTD. The Ecoboost is really not that much cheaper, but I don't know if I really need as much truck as the Ram. My last truck was a F250 PSD and it was great, but the ride and size wasn't great for a daily driver. I've never owned a 1/2 ton pick-up.

I really want a turbo as I spend a lot of time at high altitude. I've missed my PSD since the day I sold it. Normally aspirated motors just don't pull the hills at altitude like the turbo motors do.

Thoughts?
Old     (retoxtony)      Join Date: Apr 2012       05-11-2014, 9:32 AM Reply   
Most guys here will tell you its a great truck but i hate mine. 115,000km and i've had the clutch pack in the rear end done 7 times (not a typo), endless small electrical gremlins, lots of surging issues due to many different problems, horrible mileage and most recently i had a stretched timing chain that had to be replaced along with all the gears and the cam phasers. Luckily almost everything has been under warranty so far but it runs out in 5k more so this truck will be a money pit. Ford has been a nightmare to deal with on trying to get ongoing problems resolved (like my rear end) and our local dealerships have been no better. It is a nice looking truck but i wish i would have got another GM or went back to a diesel. I still say my ecoboost pulls no better than my GMC with the 6.2l did and the 6.2 actually got slightly better mileage pulling my boat.
Old     (pprior)      Join Date: Jan 2012       05-11-2014, 9:38 AM Reply   
High altitude it will rock. tows like a beast, but mileage (at least in my instance) is terrible. Compared with a 2500 diesel however it's not the same league for towing.

I've had mine 2 years. I wouldn't buy any Gov't motors product, so was "stuck" with Ford.
Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-11-2014, 10:17 AM Reply   
my wife just got a 2014 F150 eco. its a 4wd, has 2200 miles on it, with a slightly larger aftermarket wheel/tire combo. no matter how you drive it, we do not get ANYWHERE near the mileage ford claims. she avg about 12-13mpg. i know the tires(only 33") will affect it some but i still believe it should be getting alot better. heck my f250 with a 6" lift and 37" tires gets better mileage than her ecoboost does. im hoping it gets a little better MPG once it gets broken in and some more miles on it. if not im gonna be highly disappointed. we have not towed the boat with it yet so i cant say how it does in that aspect. other than the MPG issue the truck is flawless as most ford trucks are. it will definetly have a more comfortable interior compared to a dodge IMO.
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-11-2014, 10:44 AM Reply   
My truck must of been built on a good day because I have had no problems with it. I have 33k miles on it and have towed since day 1. I have a few mods on it and I get about 12-14 mpg towing and 20-22 on the freeway.
Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-11-2014, 10:47 AM Reply   
what type of mileage did you get brand new? we only got 13mpg on our last highway trip we took. getting around 12 in city driving
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-11-2014, 10:57 AM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by runin90lx View Post
what type of mileage did you get brand new? we only got 13mpg on our last highway trip we took. getting around 12 in city driving
It actually really hasn't changed much . I live in AZ so the air temp doesn't get to cold , I've heard cold air kills mpg with these ecos.
Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-11-2014, 11:02 AM Reply   
im in Texas..i dont have much cold air either
Old     (norcalmalibu)      Join Date: Jun 2004       05-11-2014, 11:11 AM Reply   
A lot of the bugs were worked out by the 13 models, they fixed the intercooler which they attributed to the surging. I've got 19k miles on mine and has been great so far. It pulls my 23lsv with ease. I avg 15 mpg with mixed driving. There is a huge difference in mpg depending on what rear end and 65mph opposed to 75.
Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-11-2014, 11:13 AM Reply   
we have the 3.55 gears, and 70mpg avg highway speed.
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-11-2014, 11:27 AM Reply   
Forgot to mention mine is a 2011 and have the 3.55 rear end.

Last edited by stevev210; 05-11-2014 at 11:30 AM.
Old     (zimme)      Join Date: Feb 2013       05-11-2014, 11:33 AM Reply   
I love my ecoboost, mileage has been my only complaint. Since new, I've averaged about 14.4mpg. Currently I'm at about 5600 miles. Just this weekend I got the best mileage I've ever gotten out of it... 25mpg with a tailwind going 65mph for about 20 miles. On the way back in the headwind that went down to roughly 21.5mpg. I can definitely live with that. Only change was that I put a bed cover on, so I don't know if that's the reason it went up so much or if my truck is suddenly "broken in" and getting better mileage. At those MPG's, I don't care what the cause for it was, as long as it keeps up like that.

Mine is a 2013, bought it in November.
Old     (retoxtony)      Join Date: Apr 2012       05-11-2014, 11:47 AM Reply   
Mine is a 4x4 with 3.73 gears and I have gotten as good as 20mpg on the highway but thats pretty rare. Usually more around 16-17 if i drive nice. Mixed driving average is around 13-14. Towing pretty much anything drops it to around 10-11 mpg. As for the surging on my truck, they chased it for a long time and still have never completely fixed it. First it was the factory tune so they updated it a few times which didnt help at all. Then it was the factory plugs being gapped all over the place which they refused to correct. I replaced them and gapped them properly which did help a little. They've updated the intercooler to the newest version and it still surges at times. This is a problem that still even pops up on the brand new trucks. Its thought that a big part of the problem is just a poor design that allows alot of condensation build up. On the ford forums people have started drilling a small hole in the intercooler to allow moisture to drain out. I haven't tried this yet on mine but people are having good results. I've also been having coil pack problems lately causing misfires and throwing CELs. My truck is a big lemon, i just wish ford would try to fix these problems rather than waiting me out till my warranty expires.
Old     (guido)      Join Date: Jul 2002       05-11-2014, 11:53 AM Reply   
Interesting. So, looks like mixed reviews. I haven't driven the Ford yet, but the new Dodge interior is really nice. The Dodge is just a big truck. Stock height is pretty high for my wife to get in/out, especially when loading our kid. The coil springs have improved the ride quite a bit, but it's still a 3/4 ton.

The guy I work next to is getting his '14 CTD bought back right now because of a "check engine light" that they couldn't fix, so that might make me a bit leery, too.

All in all, they are about the same price because of the hook up I get on the Ram. I think I may see if I can drive one for a couple days. Maybe let my wife check it out.
Old     (zimme)      Join Date: Feb 2013       05-11-2014, 1:15 PM Reply   
I can tell you one thing... when it comes to pulling, you won't be disappointed there. The ride is also great. I really don't feel like I'm driving a truck around.
Old     (surffresh)      Join Date: Jun 2010       05-11-2014, 3:01 PM Reply   
had 44,000 on my first one, a 2011, traded it in for a 2013 back in November, can't see having anything else
Old     (Sugashane)      Join Date: Nov 2012       05-11-2014, 4:52 PM Reply   
My mileage definitely picked up after I had several thousand miles on it. FX2 with 40k miles 3.55 gears and I average almost 18 mpg.
Old     (nitrousbird)      Join Date: Sep 2008       05-11-2014, 4:57 PM Reply   
Unless you are getting a steal of a deal on a '14 F-150, pass (or I guess if you lease its alright). The values are going to tank when the '15 comes out and you will also see a market flood as folks trade in their current models for the newest thing.

That said, I'd be looking at a '14 GMC Sierra instead.
Old     (chattwake)      Join Date: Jan 2010       05-11-2014, 5:52 PM Reply   
I've got a 13 f150 platinum screw Eco 4x4 (3.55) and it really like it. I'm averaging 16.2 mpg mixed driving. I just towed home an axis a24, and I thought it did pretty well. Better than the Denali (yukon) I got rid of but nowhere near as good as the 05 dodge 5.9 ctd I sold a while ago. That being said, when you factor in the comfort, styling, options and mileage, it's the perfect truck for me. Basically, you can go more heavy duty (i.e. diesel), but you just don't retain the comfort/ride quality when traveling unloaded.
Old     (DatTexasBoy)      Join Date: Aug 2012       05-11-2014, 6:54 PM Reply   
13 EB 4x4 3.73 gears. 22's and 33's. 12-13 city and 14-15 hwy. Just the way it is. Truck tows like a beast tho!
Old     (tn_rider)      Join Date: Dec 2009       05-11-2014, 10:08 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by chattwake View Post
I've got a 13 f150 platinum screw Eco 4x4 (3.55) and it really like it. I'm averaging 16.2 mpg mixed driving. I just towed home an axis a24, and I thought it did pretty well. Better than the Denali (yukon) I got rid of but nowhere near as good as the 05 dodge 5.9 ctd I sold a while ago. That being said, when you factor in the comfort, styling, options and mileage, it's the perfect truck for me. Basically, you can go more heavy duty (i.e. diesel), but you just don't retain the comfort/ride quality when traveling unloaded.

So you got the A24 this year?
Old     (chattwake)      Join Date: Jan 2010       05-12-2014, 5:52 AM Reply   
Yup. Just picked it up yesterday. It was a demo that I couldn't pass up - '14 A24 with the LS3. It's got a fairly standard trailer and no heater, but otherwise, it's got every option I'd put on it. I've got a little work to do getting it ready for the lake, but I'll do a write up soon.
Old     (jonblarc7)      Join Date: Jul 2006       05-12-2014, 6:53 AM Reply   
Chatt

If you don't have pic's it didn't happen.



I know you at least got one pic of the new boat.
Old     (chattwake)      Join Date: Jan 2010       05-12-2014, 7:04 AM Reply   


It's one of the boats from the JaoPro voyage movie. No personal pics yet, because I picked it up on mother's day and my wife would not let me play with it yesterday.
Old     (jonblarc7)      Join Date: Jul 2006       05-12-2014, 7:10 AM Reply   
Man it looks good.
Old     (chattwake)      Join Date: Jan 2010       05-12-2014, 7:25 AM Reply   
Thanks! The top deck looks black in this picture, but it's actually a smoky grey (which matches my truck pretty well). I believe, orange was the new flake color this year, so I'm pretty pumped.
Old     (srock)      Join Date: Mar 2002       05-12-2014, 8:05 AM Reply   
Wow my 2013 Raptor with at 6.2 cast iron block single overhead cam is getting a 14.5 to 15 MPG with 75% highway miles to work. It will never do better than the current mileage but I feel good about having an uncomplicated engine.

I'm looking forward the host of 1/2 ton diesels coming to market. I'll take a good pull and economy over blazing speed.
Old     (CHern5972)      Join Date: Jul 2012       05-12-2014, 9:23 AM Reply   
mine has been great
13 ecoboost fx4
14 city
17-20 hwy
12 towing

Been to Pesicola, Destin 2 times in it and it has been great. We normally drive anywhere from 10 min to 2 hours to different riding spots and have always been happy with its towing performance. Now mine is all stock with 20's.. Of course milage will suck if you startleveling/lifting with bigger tires.

Last edited by CHern5972; 05-12-2014 at 9:25 AM.
Old     (MIKEnNC)      Join Date: Nov 2012       05-12-2014, 2:16 PM Reply   
could anybody explain to me the advantages / disadvantages to the 3.55 gears vs. the 3.73 gears, thanks,,,,,,,i have been wrestling with the ecoboost f150 decision for a long time now.
Old     (blackstang)      Join Date: Dec 2013       05-12-2014, 2:24 PM Reply   
Working for a Ford dealer I get to drive all the vehicles. I have to say the Ecoboost is very impressive and towed my boat better although getting the same fuel mileage as my 5.4 F-150 would. Don't see to many problems other than the early ones with the updated intercooler. If it were me, I would go with a 5.0 V8 F-150. pretty close on fuel mileage (maybe even better than some on here) and great reliability.
Old     (polarbill)      Join Date: Jun 2003       05-12-2014, 2:34 PM Reply   
that is what Hate and Pain ended up with I think. FX4 5.0L and he had the ecoboost the year before as his demo rig.
Old     (Cabledog)      Join Date: Dec 2013       05-12-2014, 2:39 PM Reply   
With a 3.55 rear gear ratio, for each full rotation of the rear tires, the driveshaft (input shaft for the diff.) has done a complete rotation 3.55 times. If you have higher gearing, like 3.73 or higher, you don't have to turn the driveshaft as much to get the tires to rotate the same amount of times. Higher rear gear ratios are best for towing and epic acceleration, but not so much for top speed. The opposite is true for low ratios, like 3.10. Those are best for a higher top end speed and better fuel mileage, but at the cost of acceleration and hauling/towing power. I have a 2012 F150 4x4 with the the 3.55 and 5.0 V8. I average 15-16mpg in daily driving (mostly city) and 11-13 towing . Both averages were about 2-3 mpg better with the stock tires. my wheels are the same diameter as the stock ones but a lot wider so it increases rolling resistance.
Old     (Cabledog)      Join Date: Dec 2013       05-12-2014, 2:45 PM Reply   
I do drive it pretty hard though with regular WOT and redline shifts. Gas is paid so mpg has never really been a concern. Towing mileage is over some passes and 70+ mph on the freeway.
Old     (pprior)      Join Date: Jan 2012       05-12-2014, 4:22 PM Reply   
Mike - I don't believe you can get max tow package without 3.73 gears. You will almost definitely want max tow as otherwise you will be very limited as to what capacity you have in the truck itself unless you're towing a very light boat.
Old     (Fourspeednup)      Join Date: Apr 2010       05-12-2014, 5:33 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by Cabledog View Post
With a 3.55 rear gear ratio, for each full rotation of the rear tires, the driveshaft (input shaft for the diff.) has done a complete rotation 3.55 times. If you have higher gearing, like 3.73 or higher, you don't have to turn the driveshaft as much to get the tires to rotate the same amount of times. Higher rear gear ratios are best for towing and epic acceleration, but not so much for top speed. The opposite is true for low ratios, like 3.10. Those are best for a higher top end speed and better fuel mileage, but at the cost of acceleration and hauling/towing power.
Dig your truck Cabledog, very cool and clean look. Your post could read a little backwards so to clarify, a higher numeric ratio results in a lower gear. Ex: 3.73 is a lower gear than 3.55 thus engine RPM will be higher at a given speed. Good for staying in the power band for better towing performance and acceleration but mileage will usually suffer since it takes more fuel to turn the higher RPM.

By that same logic, a taller tire would decrease RPM netting better mileage but wind resistance, rotating weight, etc play a big part and tend to kill mileage.

Boosted motors both diesel and gas seem to be more sensitive to these changes but they sure are a heck of lot more fun with almost instant power on demand I'm willing to spend a few extra bucks to have the torque at my disposal even if I don't need it all the time.
Old     (greg2)      Join Date: May 2002       05-12-2014, 6:06 PM Reply   
I just moved from a 2007 GMC 1/2 ton crew cab with a 5.3 to a 2014 Ram 2500 with a Cummins. I did test drive an ecoboost FX4 before I got the Ram and there was only about $3K difference in price for a well equipped Ram. As for mileage, the Ram 2500 blows my 07 GMC out of the water, even with the added cost of diesel it's cheaper. The FX4 ecoboost I drove had a lot more road noise than the Ram at highway speeds....odd, but my experience. The 5 link coil rear suspension has been great and while still a 3/4 ton truck it rides great in my opinion. My boat/trailer are about 5500 lbs with gear and in the hills I get about 13 towing, in the flatlands its about 14.5. In the hills my old truck was under 10 mpg. On the highway not towing under about 72 MPH you can easily get 20 mpg with the Ram. Trips where I stay around 60-65 it will be over 20 mpg not towing. The other thing is how well the transmission and exhaust brake work in the hills...easy to drive with very little braking ever required while towing. The ecoboost is a great engine and everybody has their opinions, but I'm happy with my decision and glad I did not go with the ecoboost at this point.
Old     (mikeski)      Join Date: Aug 2003       05-12-2014, 6:38 PM Reply   
My construction managers are all wanting the new Rams these days. We rent them and they only keep them a few weeks at a time but they are happy to give the Fords and Chevy's back and want to keep the Rams. They have zero brand loyalty. It is all about the ride quality and interior for these guys since they spend lots of time on long trips towing equipment or full of materials. Most of the time they are no where near capacity but they need to be able to tow a trencher or bobcat so they need 3/4 ton rigs.
Old     (peter19u)      Join Date: Oct 2006       05-12-2014, 7:31 PM Reply   
I have a 2011 with 50000 miles. So far no problems. Love the power and truck but the mileage sucks. Anyone have the 1/2 Ram exodiesel. They claim 19 city and 28 highway with the 4x4. Wonder that the performance is like.
Old     (MIKEnNC)      Join Date: Nov 2012       05-12-2014, 7:31 PM Reply   
Would the ecoboost with 3.55 gears be sufficient for a Mxz 22?
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-12-2014, 8:10 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by MIKEnNC View Post
Would the ecoboost with 3.55 gears be sufficient for a Mxz 22?
Mine has 3.55s and tows my 06 star with ease! Dry weight is 4250lbs.
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-12-2014, 8:20 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by peter19u View Post
I have a 2011 with 50000 miles. So far no problems. Love the power and truck but the mileage sucks. Anyone have the 1/2 Ram exodiesel. They claim 19 city and 28 highway with the 4x4. Wonder that the performance is like.
265 hp and 420 torque, should do good towing but I haven't seen any dyno sheets yet to see where the #s are
Old     (DatTexasBoy)      Join Date: Aug 2012       05-13-2014, 7:05 AM Reply   
Mike I love mine and it will tow anything. I will say a diesel is probably still better but I couldn't justify the extra cost since it's my wife's daily driver.
Old     (BradM07SS)      Join Date: Jul 2011       05-13-2014, 7:31 AM Reply   
I have 2013 Ecoboost 8" lift 37's 3.55 gears. I love it it pulls awesome and still gets decent mileage with my MPT tow tune. These trucks make about 80rwhp and 80rwtq with just a tune.
Old     (Cabledog)      Join Date: Dec 2013       05-13-2014, 8:05 AM Reply   
[ Anyone have the 1/2 Ram exodiesel. They claim 19 city and 28 highway with the 4x4. Wonder that the performance is like.[/QUOTE]

I’m interested in the Ram/ Fiat ecodiesel too but when comparing the power and torque to the Hemi it looks like they have the Hemi as the top performing engine for Ram ½ tons. In ¾ ton and up the diesel is usually the top dog engine. My perfect truck would be a half ton with stump pulling diesel torque. Best of both worlds with plenty of tow power in a smaller truck that is nicer for daily driving.
Old     (ajf4242)      Join Date: Aug 2008       05-13-2014, 8:15 AM Reply   
My dad has a 2011 with over a 100,000 miles on it and all he had to do was change the spark plugs on his so far. .. he works at gravel pits and tows a lot of heavy equipment and abuses every single truck he has had. He has the 3.73 max tow package in his. I have a 2013 with the 3.55 and have over 35,000 miles on mine and have had no engine issues. . . the life of my truck I've average 16.2 mpgs. The best I've seen is 22 going 60 on the highway. . . typically 17-18 on the interstate going 70. Towing my boat is night and day difference between the 5.4 I had. It has no problems pulling my A22 through the hills in Arkansas. It wouldn't have an issue towing any wakeboarding boat from any manufacturer. I'm a little biased though my dads owned all Ford trucks and has put over 250k on each one with no engine issues. . . I don't think I would ever buy any other brand of truck unless I had some serious issues with one.
Old     (pprior)      Join Date: Jan 2012       05-13-2014, 10:51 AM Reply   
Not to keep harping, but how much it will PULL is not the limit with this motor. The truck's rated capacity is the issue. I've got max tow and HD payload on mine and the capacity is 1530 lbs. That is for ALL cargo and ALL passengers. I've you've got a truck full of people, and have a decent sized boat putting weight on the hitch, unless you get max tow/HD payload you can easily go over and so you've still got the motor to pull the load, but the suspension is not rated for it.

Maybe things have changed with new models but before you could only get these with the 3.73 gears, so I'll say it once more, make sure you understand rated capacity before you pick a gear ratio. The motor has plenty of go with lower gears, but that's not the issue.
Old     (Thrall)      Join Date: Oct 2010       05-13-2014, 5:57 PM Reply   
Not sure the op's question is even close to apples to apples. Yes the Eco is a nice 1/2 ton that actually has some ballz at altitude but if the price is similar and not a concern then the CTD blows it away in EVERY category except ease of entry for short people!
For starters, the Eco is on a 10'yr old chassis now. It doesn't get the advertised mileage unless you're babying it, oh yeah and 420 ft lbs vs 850??
And the diesel will hold its resale better after the miles rack up.
I just ran 1 of my new company trucks back across the N Slope AK oilfield roads, about 100 mi of potholed washboards and the 2014 2500 mega diesel with coil springs is notably better than the leaf setup for keeping the @ss end under the truck through the rough stuff.

Nothing against the Eco unless they are pricing themselves into diesel territory. Then not much of a value anymore.
BTW I like the Eco. Drove one last year for a while. Keeps right up with the 6.2l pickups from the other 2.
Old     (kronoss)      Join Date: Oct 2010       05-13-2014, 7:37 PM Reply   
2014 GMC Sierra

No problems so far, 10k miles

avg 18 city 28 highway.

towing city: 13ish, towing highway 19ish.

I even got up to 32avg on highway one time, driving 60mph. for 50 miles.



Love the truck, the only thing i would trade it for, is probably the 2016 GMC Canyon i4 Diesel, that thing will probably get 30-45 mpg.
Old     (MIKEnNC)      Join Date: Nov 2012       05-14-2014, 5:12 PM Reply   
For u guys with the customized Eco f150s, can u post up pics of them. With or without boat attached or both if u pics of them
Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       05-14-2014, 6:31 PM Reply   
Old     (greg2)      Join Date: May 2002       05-14-2014, 6:34 PM Reply   
Kronos, I'd be real curious what you were towing to get 19MPG on the highway??
Old     (Brendon444)      Join Date: Jul 2011       05-14-2014, 6:58 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by greg2 View Post
Kronos, I'd be real curious what you were towing to get 19MPG on the highway??
I own a 14 Sierra Denali and i can garentee that's being towed haha. 19 mpg empty highway is more realistic. Few friends also have the 14's gm's so not just one truck. Perfect conditions may get 22 on highway realistic average empty.
Old     (BradM07SS)      Join Date: Jul 2011       05-15-2014, 2:23 AM Reply   
2013 8" lift 37's




Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-15-2014, 6:31 AM Reply   


2014 ecoboost. leveling kit with 22" wheels and 33" tires.
Old     (pctarmor)      Join Date: Aug 2006       05-15-2014, 9:29 AM Reply   
Love mine, tows so much better than my Armada or Ram.
Attached Images
  
Old     (stuntmonkey)      Join Date: Feb 2009       05-17-2014, 8:02 AM Reply   
I dunno about the ecoboost, but our 5.0 tows the 220TE like a pile of crap. No power at all, the ride is terrible with the trailer and its seriously got me considering moving up to a 3/4 ton.
Old     (Austinb23)      Join Date: Jul 2013       05-18-2014, 2:04 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by stuntmonkey View Post
I dunno about the ecoboost, but our 5.0 tows the 220TE like a pile of crap. No power at all, the ride is terrible with the trailer and its seriously got me considering moving up to a 3/4 ton.
really on my 5.0 it tows like a beast never had a complaint about it never felt anything i have pulled with it and when not pulling i have yet to see a set of tail lights
Old     (stuntmonkey)      Join Date: Feb 2009       05-20-2014, 11:00 AM Reply   
Yeah it doesn't help that our trailer is screwed. I'll hold my tongue until we pick up the new boat and report back.
Old     (FastR3DN3K)      Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Midlothian TX       05-21-2014, 7:29 AM Reply   
Personally I wouldn't even consider the Ecoboost if it's about the same money as a 2500 Cummins, you'd be a fool not to get the bigger truck. I have a buddy that has a 2012 Eco FX4 and has had a ton of problems. He's still dealing with the surging issues despite multiple trips to the dealer for "fixes", has been having issues with his Sync system, and his dash computer display doesn't even work half the time. He's also had a couple of issues with the electronic 4x4 system not wanting to disengage after use, once forcing us to drive back 20 miles to the house in 4x4 low.

Honestly all my experiences with new Ford's have been pretty sub-par too. I had a 2011 F350 FX4 with the new 6.7 when they first came out and that thing was an absolute pile of crap. Ford's DEF/DPF design is terrible and I had that truck in the shop 7 times in 55,000 miles for it before I finally gave up and got rid of it. I also looked at the 6.2 Raptor when I was in the market for a new truck, and every Ford dealer I went to between Shreveport, LA and Carlsbad, NM had at least one sitting out behind the service shop with a broken driveshaft. I quickly changed my mind on that and decided to go back to Dodge.

I picked up a 2012 Ram 3500 MegaCab 4x4 Cummins (for not much more than a 2500) a couple years ago and couldn't be happier with it. Have had absolutely zero issues with it and the Cummins is awesome. It doesn't spool quite as fast as the PowerStroke or Duramax, but that's to be expected when comparing an inline 6 to a couple of V8 diesels. What really impressed me was the ride quality of it considering it was a heavy duty truck. Dodge started using urethane gel-filled cab bushings a couple years ago in all their heavy duty's over the traditional hard rubber that everyone else uses, and it makes a world of difference. It's similar to the air ride cabs on big rigs, and it definitely softens up the ride a bit. I know the newer trucks have a new rear suspension design as well, which I've heard is far superior to my leaf spring setup.

My truck is the last year model that didn't have the DEF system (which was a perk for me since I plan on doing deletes), but guys are saying they are getting a lot better mileage out of the newer models with the DEF setup. I average around 14 mpg empty/12mpg towing in mixed driving conditions. I've gotten as high as 18 on the interstate, and around 13.5 while towing. Fully deleted my truck is capable of low to mid 20s, depending on driving style. I know a couple of guys with 2013s and 2014s that are claiming well over 20 on the highway bone stock. If they really are getting that mileage, then it would be a no-brainer to go with the 2500 over the Eco.
Old     (lifetimewarranty)      Join Date: Oct 2008       05-21-2014, 11:38 AM Reply   
I was just in the market for a new truck and liked the eco but heard too much about issues and crappy fuel economy. They clearly drive nice but all new trucks do also.

I narrowed my search to the Ram 2500 cummins and the tundra. I normally tow the boat quite a bit in the summer but the lake is 5 miles from my house so I really don't normally haul heavy for very long. Also, I live under a mile from work and the truck was my daily driver.

Diesels HATE short trips where they don't warm up much. I've actually read that many with the ram cummins have tons of issues and most are guys that do not push the trucks regularly. Chrysler is not known for being the most reliable and the 2500 cummins is actually rated as their worst in the fleet. Those facts put me off a little even knowing family members that push Ram's to the limit with drilling company's up north. I will say though that I was about a half a breath away from going with the ram.

I think the Tundra works best for me and actually fits in my garage which is a huge plus IMO...but the Ram is pretty awesome. They have multi-link rear suspensions with coils now in the 2500's which (as mentioned) ride very nice. For the nearly all city driving I do, the Tundra is clearly a better choice but from your options I'd probably go with the Ram over the eco. It really isn't hard to find thread after thread of Eco's with bad fuel economy and problems. If you were going for 1/2 ton and MPG's then order the 1/2 ton Ram with the Diesel. I probably would have bought one if there were any on any lots.

Oh, and price - Ram gives their trucks away. I could have got a well optioned 4x4 Ram Cummins for maybe even less than a F150 optioned with Eco. I ended up getting a fully loaded Platinum Tundra for about 4K less than a pretty loaded up Ram 2500 and the Fords limited or platinum were even a couple thousand more. I was seeing 12k off MSRP for Cummins rams.
Old     (stuntmonkey)      Join Date: Feb 2009       05-21-2014, 1:58 PM Reply   
You're obviously misinformed about diesels if thats what you think.
Old     (lifetimewarranty)      Join Date: Oct 2008       05-21-2014, 2:34 PM Reply   
Possibly, but everything I read about the Ram cummins pointed in that direction. Most guys were blaming the Def systems for the issues with not running them hard. Either way I didn't want to take a risk. FWIW I also believe that gas engines don't care much for really short - never get warmed up - trips either.
Old     (lifetimewarranty)      Join Date: Oct 2008       05-21-2014, 2:45 PM Reply   
Here was some of the stuff I was seeing on the Cummins. If you have some other info then put it out there.

http://www.ramforum.com/f71/class_action_6_7l-32235/
Old     (lifetimewarranty)      Join Date: Oct 2008       05-21-2014, 3:32 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by stuntmonkey View Post
You're obviously misinformed about diesels if thats what you think.
And it looks like Volkswagen's Canadian spokesman agrees with me here also.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe...rticle4099688/

I'd still pick the cummins over the eco though
Old     (lifetimewarranty)      Join Date: Oct 2008       05-21-2014, 4:11 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by Thrall View Post
... oh yeah and 420 ft lbs vs 850??
Don't quote me but I'm pretty sure you only get 850 as an option on the 3500's. Regular cummins are at 650.
Old     (ixfe)      Join Date: Aug 2008       05-21-2014, 6:04 PM Reply   






Old     (MIKEnNC)      Join Date: Nov 2012       05-21-2014, 8:35 PM Reply   
Badass man. I like it
Old     (robeport)      Join Date: Jul 2013       05-22-2014, 8:27 AM Reply   
2013 EB. I've been very happy with mine so far. I've had it in for warranty once with a humming noise on trans cooler line that was fixed.

Old     (robeport)      Join Date: Jul 2013       05-22-2014, 8:44 AM Reply   
BTW, I am running a 2.5" level and 295/60R20 with 3.73s and averaging 15-16 mpg on my daily commute. Towing the boat drops it to the 11-12 range.
Old     (hatepain)      Join Date: Aug 2006       05-22-2014, 9:40 PM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by polarbill View Post
that is what Hate and Pain ended up with I think. FX4 5.0L and he had the ecoboost the year before as his demo rig.
This is accurate. I landed on the 5.0 because I'd spent loads of time in them both and for most of my driving they were the same and that includes fuel economy but I could get the 5.0 for less when I left the auto industry. I think they are both good motors and certainly the edge in towing goes to the ecco, especially at altitude going over the mountains but I've had no problems towing my boat or heavily loaded dump trailers with my 5.0. I'm sure with a few mods I could bump that motor up and get a little more torque and HP but honestly I just don't need it. I left Ford in January of 2013 and worked at one of the top truck dealers in the country. We did not see these trucks in the shop all the time nor did I have customers that had reaoeted issues save for one who just happened to have a lifted truck. All in all aside from myTouch having some issues they're pretty damn good trucks and to my mind have by far the nicest interiors.


We sold LOADS of Raptors and never once did I see one back in the shop for anything other than upgrades.
Old     (Austinb23)      Join Date: Jul 2013       05-23-2014, 7:06 AM Reply   
Quote:
Originally Posted by robeport View Post
BTW, I am running a 2.5" level and 295/60R20 with 3.73s and averaging 15-16 mpg on my daily commute. Towing the boat drops it to the 11-12 range.
you average better in the city than i do with my 5.0 but i do better while towing and i do have 2 inc level and 33's and 373 gears i get about 13.5 towing and 14.8 in the city
Old     (h20king)      Join Date: Dec 2009       05-26-2014, 6:15 AM Reply   
The Eco is nice but you cant do this with one of them. If the price is close my vote would be to go with a cummins.
Attached Images
 
Old     (runin90lx)      Join Date: Sep 2009       05-27-2014, 2:03 PM Reply   
Just an update on the MPGs on our new truck. We now have anout 3300 miles on it. Went out of town(dallas tx)for a baseball tournament this past weekend. On the interstate with cruise set at 72 mph we avg 16.4 mpg. When driving around dallas @60mph we got 18.4 mpg. Mileage seems to be getting better now that we are getting some miles on the motor.

Still haven't towed the boat with it yet. We just ise my f250 normally to tow anywhere

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337 using Tapatalk
Old     (chilidog)      Join Date: Dec 2007       05-27-2014, 4:47 PM Reply   
On my 09 ctd mega cab with a hypertech chip and cold air induction I get 18-20 freeway 14 pulling the Sanger with 1 k in lead all the time. And I have 4.10 gears and an auto. I think after loving the old power stroke you wouldn't be happy with the ecoboost. Going up to Tahoe the 6 banger would prob be screamin where the diesel with more room and grunt won't even downshift. I think they worked some of the emissions bugs out after the 10-12 run as well. I thought your commuter was the supermotard bike?? Come drive mine someday the $ 600 in upgrades added 5 mpg 80hp and 150tq, well worth it. After 09 they upped the power to 800tq stock and 400 hp which is about what I have now so a new one would respond better yet. Only downside to dodge is the interior quality is lacking compared to ford or Chevy. But they are significantly less money and do the truck stuff just as well, plus solid front axle unlike the Chevy
Old     (cboom12)      Join Date: Jul 2004       05-28-2014, 8:25 PM Reply   
13 ecoscrew fx4. Thing is a beast. Just drove home from Tahoe this afternoon averaged 17.0 mpg round trip. My only complaint would be the mileage as we r getting 13.3 for the life of the truck. But in fairness I drive almost exclusively in town. I think what a lot of people may not take into account is that the advertised mileage is with the stock rear end. Seems most of the trucks mine included come with the 3:73 gears to get the full tow cap. It certainly is not the truck a cummins is but imo it's the baddest 1/2 ton out there. Even the new dodge Eco diesel only has a tow rating of 7700 lbs and the review I read said it lacked acceleration and was 49 k with cloth seats. Lol.
Old     (patrick232)      Join Date: Aug 2008       06-04-2014, 6:44 AM Reply   
What do you guys think about the 6.2 liter? Our local dealer has 4 left over 2013 and is looking like we can make a good deal, but holding for a great.
Super Crew Standard Bed Lariat 4X4
Sticker $50,200
Trade $15,500
OTD $29,750
Old     (BradM07SS)      Join Date: Jul 2011       06-04-2014, 7:47 AM Reply   
Should be able to get it cheaper. i bought my 2013 Last July FX4 ecoboost sticker $52 for right at 41K OTD.
Old     (blackstang)      Join Date: Dec 2013       06-04-2014, 7:57 AM Reply   
I would not personally buy a 6.2 truck. Not much more power and from what I've seen poor fuel mileage. They have 4 left over 2013 model year trucks for a reason. I've also started to see a few 6.2 trucks (Super Duty) come in with engine noise. These are the same engine in the F-150 6.2, however these trucks did come from the mining industry and probably were not treated very well. On a side note they had less than 60K miles!
Old     (Fiveflat)      Join Date: Sep 2010       06-04-2014, 9:55 AM Reply   
My ecoboost does very well. I get around 15.7MPG towing the SA and about 17MPG empty. So the mileage isn't quite what they say (even if I try to drive like an old grandma). But I'm not sweatin' it too much. It's heaven compared to the 13mpg / 9mpg towing I got with my 6.4 PSD.

Old     (stevev210)      Join Date: Feb 2005       06-04-2014, 10:41 AM Reply   
Has anyone had problems with high coolant temps when towing a long grade?

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