2016 Ford F150 vs F250

[fran&frank]

So I've finally settled on the F150 3.5 ecoboost with either super cab or super crew and 51/2 or 61/2 foot bed. Been looking at configurations that give best actual payload. Nothing on the dealer lots has the HD payload package which theoretically gets you up to 2600 lbs payload. With max tow package I'm seeing payloads payloads are around 1800-1900 if the truck is not loaded up. That's cutting it close if I'm looking at 27-28' airstream and a cap on the bed plus some gear. Can get a pretty good deal on these truck on the lot right now so need to decide if its worth the extra cost to order a truck with the extra payload.

[dkottum]

Our approach is why get 2600 lbs payload rating when you need 1900 lbs. Significantly higher load ratings on the same basic vehicle most probably will result in rougher ride for you and your Airstream.

[Moflash]

Originally Posted by dkottum

Our approach is why get 2600 lbs payload rating when you need 1900 lbs. Significantly higher load ratings on the same basic vehicle most probably will result in rougher ride for you and your Airstream.

Actually this is not true as the higher payload vehicle will ride better when it is not at its maximum capacity.
The lighter payload vehicle loaded at or near maximum capacity will have a rougher ride due to compressed spring pack and little or no suspension travel remaining in the springs.Even using a quality wd hitch has no effect on ride quality in this scenario.

This is a common misconception.
Sent from my iPhone using Airstream Forums

[LaBigDogs]

A Twist.... http://www.autoblog.com/2016/01/28/f...l-spied-video/

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by franklyfrank

My sentiments exactly.
I love my 2012 Ecoboost Platinum F-150. I pull a 30' International, have been all over the south west the Rockies and yet to have any performance issues.
Have 76 K miles and as of last year we use it as a dedicated vehicle with the AS.
BTW it does have a 3.73 axle.

I have 78K on my 2012 F150 EB Platinum also, but 3 things concern me:
1) overheating going up long grades pulling our 25' AS in hot summer days.
2) braking coming down on steep grades.
3) turbo/ engine life of EB model; will it go 250K miles towing? (I have seen the U-Tube video from Ford, but still concerned in real life after hearing turbo issues on some engines historically)

I love the EB so far, other than 1 & 2 above; 3 is in the back of my mind. I did like the new 6.2 GM I mentioned earlier, despite the "concerns" others posted about the GM bailout. I am not hung up on emotion; I just want my next (likely last) TV to be a gasser, 1/2 ton, and able to go the "distance" (200K+ miles) with plenty of torque/power/ and confidence.

[SCOTTinNJ]

Originally Posted by gypsydad

I have 78K on my 2012 F150 EB Platinum also, but 3 things concern me:
1) overheating going up long grades pulling our 25' AS in hot summer days.
2) braking coming down on steep grades.
3) edited out

Gypsy,

Can you elaborate on these? Has overheating been an actual issue or just a concern? Same with engine braking. Have you found it insufficient?

At some point I need a new truck and the EB is the leading contender. But I am particularly concerned with the engine braking part.

[IanPoulin]

Originally Posted by SCOTTinNJ

Gypsy,

Can you elaborate on these? Has overheating been an actual issue or just a concern? Same with engine braking. Have you found it insufficient?

At some point I need a new truck and the EB is the leading contender. But I am particularly concerned with the engine braking part.

Scott,

While I am not Gypsy, I also experienced the same conditions in my former 2013 F150 3.5L Ecoboost, towing my International Serenity 28W.

Uphill was never really an issue for me engine power wise - I just had to be sure I kept my transmission locked out of 6th when towing. More than once I felt my transmission want to slip or attempt downshifts but never taking when on moderate inclines; always finding out I had not properly locked myself out of 6th gear.

Regarding downhills, I am including a URL to a topographic map sectional of the Blue Ridge Parkway at the base of this message. The section I am referring to is 1-P to 1-N, coming off the Plateau northbound into Roanoke; then again sections 1-J to 1-H. Both areas are consistent declines, speed limits of 35-45mph, some curves at 25mph. When in my ecoboost on these declines, in tow-haul mode, the system dropped the transmission down to second gear and I still require extensive braking applied to keep the vehicle from running reving up past 50mph, Extensive use of pullouts to wait for brakes to routinely cool were required; signs posted at these areas indicate a 5-6% grade. I would say under these circumstances, engine braking wasn't of any significant use.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped..._schematic.jpg

Edited Addendum: This is my first season driving my new TV, the 2016 F250 Diesel. I'll try and post my experiences driving the identical route home from Virginia Highland Haven early in their season.

[clamb]

My .02: go with the longer wheelbase. My '16 XLT 4X4 Screw with 3.5 ecoboost came in at 1634 lb payload- the main options affecting that were the large moonroof, spray in liner, 36 gal. tank, and side/tailgate steps...every little thing adds up.

[rodsterinfl]

frthompson, first I will say as a previous owner of an '09 F-150 (last body style) to the new body style, you cannot compare any F150 prior to 2015. You have to remember that there is around 800 lbs. in model year alone. I drove a 2013 ecoboost and was amazed, I drove a 2015 and was completely overtaken. It is a totally different vehicle with that much weight gone, even if it has the same transmission and 3.5 liter per se.

I do not know how much you are planning to carry but 1000# is pretty good sized payload remaining with a 1000# tongue weight subtracted. I got the Lariat with the 5.5 bed but I must say that the next size bed is better balanced with the crew cab- looks better to me. My payload is 1720# but I also have learned since that one limiting factor which keeps me from the 19xx payload figure is the 20" tire/wheel option and their ratings. I found this out after digging on the lot and finding the same configured truck with that option missing- the tires are not D rated.

Only you know if you need that much extra payload. If you do, then order a truck and ask them to deal with you.

[dkottum]

Originally Posted by Moflash

Actually this is not true as the higher payload vehicle will ride better when it is not at its maximum capacity.
The lighter payload vehicle loaded at or near maximum capacity will have a rougher ride due to compressed spring pack and little or no suspension travel remaining in the springs.Even using a quality wd hitch has no effect on ride quality in this scenario.

This is a common misconception.
Sent from my iPhone using Airstream Forums

Not true. With our weight distribution set our front suspension is returned to it's original ride height with full suspension travel, and the rear suspension is lowered as much as 1 1/2" (depending on load) leaving plenty of suspension travel. Our Ram 1500 has a very nice ride with or without the Airstream attached, and our ProPride weight distribution system makes it possible.

So much so, we have just traded our previous Ram 1500 for a new Ram 1500 because it has proven an excellent tow vehicle and a very pleasant ride.

[LaBigDogs]

I have logged over 33,000 miles towing my 25fb and 27fb (27fb GW only 300 lbs more) all across the US and Canada. My 1st TV was a 2011 F-250 powerstorke, keep it only for 6 months of rough riding and handled like something from the 1950's. Then after it left us on the freeway while towing not long after a $600 oil change when it was at the Ford store for repair, I returned home in my 2011 Platinum F-150 4X4 6.5bed V-6 3.55 ratio and 10 grand in my pocket. What a difference it made in towing, much better handling, with monster torque and power to spare. Solo it was a dream compared to the overkill of the F250. In 2012 I traded for a Platinum F-150 4X4 6.5bed V-6 3.73 ratio, I was forced by ford to get the 3.73 because I wanted the huge tow mirrors. This axle was a total overkill for towing my Airstream. (New thinking must be incorporated when selecting a ratio as new multi-speed transmissions and high torque engines have progressed) In 2014 I traded for a 2015 F-150 Platinum 4X4 6.5bed V-6 3.31 ratio. Love this truck, what a perfect combo for me. With all of my F-150's as soon as I purchased it I went to the tire store and changed out the tires to "D" Rated tires, today running on BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KTO. The other addition I made to all was adding roadmaster active suspension. (Note that the 27fb has the lightest hitch weight of all wide bodies about 740 lbs). I have free balled with no incidents, logged 33K miles. Up hill at 10,000 feet is flawless, quick and temps remain normal and coming down is so simple yes sometime the computer will select 1st gear to slow you downhill it is very effective as I do not touch the brakes, nor the transmission selector very much downhill. Simple and easy, I love my F-150 towing or solo it Rocks.

[franklyfrank]

Originally Posted by gypsydad

I have 78K on my 2012 F150 EB Platinum also, but 3 things concern me:
1) overheating going up long grades pulling our 25' AS in hot summer days.
2) braking coming down on steep grades.
3) turbo/ engine life of EB model; will it go 250K miles towing? (I have seen the U-Tube video from Ford, but still concerned in real life after hearing turbo issues on some engines historically)

I love the EB so far, other than 1 & 2 above; 3 is in the back of my mind. I did like the new 6.2 GM I mentioned earlier, despite the "concerns" others posted about the GM bailout. I am not hung up on emotion; I just want my next (likely last) TV to be a gasser, 1/2 ton, and able to go the "distance" (200K+ miles) with plenty of torque/power/ and confidence.

I had overheating problem as well. It was my fault, for playing with the gears manually. I was told by the Ford rep to just leave the trans in Auto and Tow Haul mode and let it do its thing. It works the additional cooling for the turbos automatically keeping everything working. So I did and no more overheating problem. We go out west to the Rockies every summer and tested it and works beautifully. As to to coming down hill I use the the trailer brakes to assist manually and I adjust the speed to keep everything in balance. The engine RPM, the trucks and trailers braking effort.
I learned that way back in my twenties driving Semi Tankers. Use the same Technic. I matters little what you drive coming downhill. One has to be measured and careful.
I see the semis hurtling past at 60 mph and it scares the heck out of me because they couldn't pull an emergency stop should they have to with all their engine brakes and air brakes combined.

[clamb]

OP and others looking at purchasing new- I went through Costco to order mine, and got a great deal- 11% below dealer invoice (before add on fees). Costco discount was $1500, and Ford incentives were $3750. It took 30 days from date of order to delivery.

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by SCOTTinNJ

Gypsy,

Can you elaborate on these? Has overheating been an actual issue or just a concern? Same with engine braking. Have you found it insufficient?

At some point I need a new truck and the EB is the leading contender. But I am particularly concerned with the engine braking part.

For overheating experience, going up the grade from Riverside to Las Vegas in 100+ degree temps last 3 years at 55-60 mph; no power issues, BUT, temp shot up a couple times into red zone, so immediately moved to "truck" slow lane and backed down to 40-45, shut down air conditioner.

Braking- I experienced similar issues as others stated; EB downshifted automatically on steep grade 6-7% to 2nd gear, and I slowed to 15-20 using trailer break switch on dash to help, but I still had front breaks overheat a few times. Engine breaking was not noticeably helpful. The area I am talking about is from Julian CA to Borrego Springs with several turns, but it was not hot out...just more than the EB can handle with my 25', I feel. I love the truck, don't get me wrong. In some areas of the country, I am sure there are no issues. Lots of torque and great ride.

[DC Bruce]

Originally Posted by gypsydad

For overheating experience, going up the grade from Riverside to Las Vegas in 100+ degree temps last 3 years at 55-60 mph; no power issues, BUT, temp shot up a couple times into red zone, so immediately moved to "truck" slow lane and backed down to 40-45, shut down air conditioner.

Braking- I experienced similar issues as others stated; EB downshifted automatically on steep grade 6-7% to 2nd gear, and I slowed to 15-20 using trailer break switch on dash to help, but I still had front breaks overheat a few times. Engine breaking was not noticeably helpful. The area I am talking about is from Julian CA to Borrego Springs with several turns, but it was not hot out...just more than the EB can handle with my 25', I feel. I love the truck, don't get me wrong. In some areas of the country, I am sure there are no issues. Lots of torque and great ride.

I'm wondering if you have your trailer brakes adjusted correctly. I've pulled my FC 27 over the same route and the full length of the PCH and have never had an issue with overheating brakes. Granted, the larger 6.2 engine in my 2015 Sierra may provide more engine braking than the 3.5 engine in the Ford, but I can't believe that accounts for our different experiences (or that the Ford's brakes are so inferior, if at all). Iv

[SCOTTinNJ]

Originally Posted by DC Bruce

Granted, the larger 6.2 engine in my 2015 Sierra may provide more engine braking than the 3.5 engine in the Ford

I think this is the answer. If so it's a downfall of the ecoboost.

I have the 5.0 now but will be looking at a new truck soon. The ecoboost is appealing except for this.

[switz]

For optimum engine braking, nothing beats displacement.

[gypsydad]

Originally Posted by DC Bruce

I'm wondering if you have your trailer brakes adjusted correctly. I've pulled my FC 27 over the same route and the full length of the PCH and have never had an issue with overheating brakes. Granted, the larger 6.2 engine in my 2015 Sierra may provide more engine braking than the 3.5 engine in the Ford, but I can't believe that accounts for our different experiences (or that the Ford's brakes are so inferior, if at all). Iv

I will double check the adjustment on the breaks next trip. I had it a bit too tight last summer, and it would lock up easily, so I backed off a little. I will re-calibrate and see if that helps. Didn't like the soot on my wheels after the last trip for sure. As for 6.2 GM, the other attraction is the 8speed vs the 6 speed on my Ford. I did like the shifting response when I test drove recently on the freeway. It was pretty responsive up/down as I accelerated and decelerated in tow mode. I was not pulling anything, however. Think I would still give a good look at the F150 EB "if/when" they deliver the 8 or 10 speed gearbox being "rumored" last 4 years!

[LaBigDogs]

On my 2015 Int 27fb, the brakes will not lock up. I can pull the emergency pin on the hitch and drive off in my truck with the trailer in tow in 2wd. The dealer said that this is normal. I will be headed to JC to have it checked out this summer. On my 2011 25fb, they would lock up. Does anyone know why this was changed on the 2015 styles.

[sheriff1]

Originally Posted by LaBigDogs

On my 2015 Int 27fb, the brakes will not lock up. I can pull the emergency pin on the hitch and drive off in my truck with the trailer in tow in 2wd. The dealer said that this is normal. I will be headed to JC to have it checked out this summer. On my 2011 25fb, they would lock up. Does anyone know why this was changed on the 2015 styles.

I would say your brakes need a simple adjustment.


2015 F350 CC 4X4 6.7 Diesel
2010 27FB Silver Cloud "The Silver Spoon"