Bigblockyeti
RVF VIP
I'm casually shopping around for a larger truck, a 1/2 ton will do all I want and then some, a 3/4 ton would be far beyond what I would want or need or be willing to spend on a depreciating asset. I've looked at GM and they stopped caring about building a 1/2 ton truck for doing truck stuff when they offered a decently powerful 6.2L engine, but only in high spec trim levels and burning premium fuel, both are non-starters for me. Dodge seems to me like they're always on the verge of producing a reliable transmission, just can't evolve past the verge into reality. Ford seems like they still offer a 1/2 ton truck for actually being used as a truck and not something crossed shopped with a $110K Sucker Urbanite Vehicle. I was able to spec out a 2023 2wd F-150 with the 3.5LTT engine, crewcab, 6.5' bed and spartan interior with rubber floors & black urethane steering wheel for $46,930 which certainly would have to be ordered. Probably wouldn't have to pay above MSRP but highly unlikely it would be under and I'd have to wait a while for it to be built too. Here's the rub, it actually doesn't have any towing package despite being able to tow 11,300lbs as equipped, the "max towing package" is really just an invitation to spend another $4K. The only functionalily in that package is an integrated brake controller, class IV towing hitch, larger rear springs and 3.73 (vs. the 3.55 locking I spec'd) locking rear axle & 9.75" ring gear (presumably an overall larger axle assembly). It also includes a littany of dodads that might make trailering easier for someone who has no business pulling a trailer in the first place, it doesn't even include trailer towing mirrors. The class IV hitch and brake controller I can source for under $350 in the aftermarket, the same for towing mirrors at ~$150 vs. whatever ford charges for them. The bigger axle, 3.73 ratio and heavier springs having a net price of over $3650 seems like a bad case of diminishing returns or greedy execs. or marketing incompetence, I'm guessing a blend. I know I'm ranting but I remember when you could pick what you wanted a la carte from any of the big three, including a proper manual transmission.
This is making a 2023 E350 cut away chassis with the Godzilla motor for $38K and change start to seem like a bargain!
This is making a 2023 E350 cut away chassis with the Godzilla motor for $38K and change start to seem like a bargain!