Short term tow rig - ExtraSlow 2017 edition

[ExtraSlow]

After all my fun last spring with my previous "short term tow rig" thread: http://forums.beyond.ca/st/396766/summer-tow-rig-options/
And all the fun I had pulling my trailer with that 2011 GMC 2500 CCLB 6.0L gas with 6-speed trans.
And finally, most fun of all, selling that bitch of a truck with more than 400,000 kms on the odometer.

Well, it's time to start thinking about what I'm dong for the summer of 2017. If you know me, I'm a Ford guy at heart. But GMC makes a fine truck, so those are back on the table.

Once again I'm planning to buy in may and sell in September.

So, here are the parameters:
Budget: under $15k
Tow Rating: minimum 8000 lbs (trailer is just under 7000 lbs when loaded)
Fuel: Gasoline (I hate diesel)
Length: NOT a crew cab long box. Willing to entertain supercabs and crew cabs, and the various trucky SUV's like suburban, expedition etc.
Transmission: NO 4-speeds. So for 2007+ GMC, 2005+ Ford Super Duty and 2009+ Ford F150.
Can't have been smoked in, prefer factory trailer brake controller. Needs good tires and no mechanical issues.


We had a great time with this thread last year, let's do it again this year.

[SKR]

I think this is the year we get you into an 8.1.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/st-albert/2002-gmc-sierra-2500-8-1l-vortec/1213165897?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

This would be perfect, except it's just over the budget and it's a crew cab long box.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2001-chevrolet-silverado-3500/1244835522?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

[spikerS]

I know he says firm, but I would totally negotiate for this, as they are a bit high on the price.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/edmonton/2011-ford-f-150-fx4-ecoboost-6-lift/1243530363?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

This one is pretty solid too.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2010-f150-xlt-xtr/1249655688?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

[corsvette]

I'd avoid any Ecoboost outside warranty and definitely avoid ANY F150 with the 5.4.

I know of a 2011-250 Super Duty crew cab shortbed with the 6.2 V8. It's a off fleet (engineers truck) clean and well maintained. I sent the sister to it down south a few months back and this one will be up for adoption first part of April. Has around 160k and it'll be $13,500 if your interested PM me. The 6.2 is a gas hog but makes good power and they seem to be decently reliable.

[spikerS]

I'd be all over that 250. There is you winner.

[btimbit]

Yeah that's what I'd get too. Pig on fuel but a solid engine

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by corsvette
I'd avoid any Ecoboost outside warranty and definitely avoid ANY F150 with the 5.4.

I know of a 2011-250 Super Duty crew cab shortbed with the 6.2 V8. It's a off fleet (engineers truck) clean and well maintained. I sent the sister to it down south a few months back and this one will be up for adoption first part of April. Has around 160k and it'll be $13,500 if your interested PM me. The 6.2 is a gas hog but makes good power and they seem to be decently reliable. :love: :love: :love: :love: :love: :love: :love: :love: :hitit: :hitit:
Call Me maybe?

[ExtraSlow]

Shit, should have been clear about this I guess, but NO LIFTED TRUCKS. Fucks up the towing, looks douchey, and means the kids and wife can't climb in.

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by SKR
I think this is the year we get you into an 8.1.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/st-albert/2002-gmc-sierra-2500-8-1l-vortec/1213165897?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

This would be perfect, except it's just over the budget and it's a crew cab long box.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2001-chevrolet-silverado-3500/1244835522?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true
So yeah, first one is lifted, and second one is CCLB and Dually. I'm okay with the 8.1L engine, in theory I guess. It gets the five-speed Allison transmission, which should be good.

[SKR]

The thing holding you back is you're looking at this with sensibility and practicality. That is absolutely not the way to buy a vehicle, especially when it's not my money.

Like last year I'm going to be zero help.

[ExtraSlow]

I appreciate the honesty.

[SJW]

I have an 09 2500 Silverado with 215000 on it I may sell soon. Brand new transfer case and shocks.

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by SJW
I have an 09 2500 Silverado with 215000 on it I may sell soon. Brand new transfer case and shocks.
Send me the details. I'm not in a huge rush, but need this thing home by the Tenth of May preferably.

[CompletelyNumb]

Originally posted by corsvette
I'd avoid any Ecoboost outside warranty and definitely avoid ANY F150 with the 5.4.

I know of a 2011-250 Super Duty crew cab shortbed with the 6.2 V8. It's a off fleet (engineers truck) clean and well maintained. I sent the sister to it down south a few months back and this one will be up for adoption first part of April. Has around 160k and it'll be $13,500 if your interested PM me. The 6.2 is a gas hog but makes good power and they seem to be decently reliable.


I'd probably be interested in that. Can I hit you up for some more info?

[corsvette]

Originally posted by CompletelyNumb



I'd probably be interested in that. Can I hit you up for some more info?

Sure. Its EX fleet and supposed to be ready for the beginning of April but they've been known to drag their feet. All trucks have sat trackers and fleet management devices that they hire out to have removed.

[ExtraSlow]

Thanks for the one beyonder who sent me an email with pics and info, and thanks to all the suggestions in this thread. It's all helpful.

[ExtraSlow]

This is a decent one......
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2868/33720029925_c6c94a221b.jpg

Hilariously sounds exactly the same as mine last year only 18" shorter.

I love me some fords, but really haven't seen anything compelling in the blue oval world.

[HiTempguy1]

A GM product is going to be the way to go IMO. That gas 08 with 190k kms you just posted? For $10k?

No way you are going to beat the value in that. Get them down to $9k. You'll tow with it for the summer, and probably make money in the fall :dunno:

[spikerS]

Man, I don't know about you guys, and maybe I am old school...but when I see 200,000+kms on a vehicle, I run for the hills. Like, I am not even considering it. In fact, that magical number for me when I am buying used is 160,000kms. Anything more and it better have some steep discounts and minty. I know vehicles can last way longer, but, then they start nickle and diming you to death.

[never]

Originally posted by spikerS
Man, I don't know about you guys, and maybe I am old school...but when I see 200,000+kms on a vehicle, I run for the hills. Like, I am not even considering it. In fact, that magical number for me when I am buying used is 160,000kms. Anything more and it better have some steep discounts and minty. I know vehicles can last way longer, but, then they start nickle and diming you to death.

Not if you take care of them. My wife's Mercedes has over 240,000 km and my truck has almost 290,000 km...haven't spent much on either and I'm not worried about either.

So there's good value to be had in some higher mileage vehicles. For me, that '08 GM above is a good deal with what I would consider to be lower mileage.

[SKR]

Kilometers don't bother me any. My truck has 261,000. I bought it with 220,000 I think. I wouldn't bat an eye at 190,000km for a 2008, gas or diesel, especially at $10k.

You can beat a vehicle to death in a lot fewer miles than 200k.

[corsvette]

Yep, gone are the days when 200,000 km plus meant trouble (unless its a high performance German car) these domestic truck are very stout. Just bought a fleet Chevy van, a 2015 with just under 600,000 km and 15,000 running hours. Aside from a fuel pump, one alternator, tuneups, one water pump, and general maintenance its all original and still actually runs very well.

I've been in the vehicle business a long time and have seen one extreme to another. I'll continue to say I'd much rather have a vehicle with 200,000 highway km than a 100,000 km in the city. Some care more about those 6 digits than how a vehicle was used or maintained.

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by corsvette
Yep, gone are the days when 200,000 km plus meant trouble (unless its a high performance German car) these domestic truck are very stout. Just bought a fleet Chevy van, a 2015 with just under 600,000 km and 15,000 running hours. Aside from a fuel pump, one alternator, tuneups, one water pump, and general maintenance its all original and still actually runs very well.

I've been in the vehicle business a long time and have seen one extreme to another. I'll continue to say I'd much rather have a vehicle with 200,000 highway km than a 100,000 km in the city. Some care more about those 6 digits than how a vehicle was used or maintained.

I actually think this isn't necessarily true unless you are talking about Diesels and Honda.

Even at that, can't guarantee that the rest of a Diesel truck holds up as well as its Cummins (I mean engine)

I think that the MDS, emissions controls and variable valve timing, though providing immense performance and economy benefits, sacrifices its durability.

Its not just a Ford triton 5.4 that has cam phaser issues... it exists almost in all models of cars except for the stupid simple vtec system.

the fuel cutoff issue has resulted in varying symptoms experienced in both Chevy small blocks and Dodge Hemi engines.

DI is also another issue that we can dive into as well

now... there are ways to mitigate this and that, and some bullet proof engines with good tech, such as the Coyotee 5.0 but overall... new technology compromises durability IMO.

5.4 Windsor built modular engine for instance was reasonably powerful but a pig on gas. I also know one that has well over 300+k and still running sound

[ExtraSlow]

For me, years worry me more than mileage. I'd rather have a 2009 with 250,000 kms than a 2004 with 150,000.
Vehicles are plastic and rubber, and that stuff deteriorates with age more so than mileage. A car that's sat still scares me.

I mean, maybe that's just me. Last years truck was 400,000 kms, the car I'm driving I bought at 155,000 or so, and it's 170,000 now.

[mzdspd]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
For me, years worry me more than mileage. I'd rather have a 2009 with 250,000 kms than a 2004 with 150,000.
Vehicles are plastic and rubber, and that stuff deteriorates with age more so than mileage. A car that's sat still scares me.

I mean, maybe that's just me. Last years truck was 400,000 kms, the car I'm driving I bought at 155,000 or so, and it's 170,000 now.

Also don't forget to factor in engine hours.. We have some (GM 2500HD Gas) field trucks that have 150-200k on them with like 8000+ hours. Hwy miles so that is not an issue but they just sit on location idling for days on end in the winter. So it puts wear and tear on the electrical components.

[HiTempguy1]

Originally posted by spikerS
Man, I don't know about you guys, and maybe I am old school...but when I see 200,000+kms on a vehicle, I run for the hills. Like, I am not even considering it. In fact, that magical number for me when I am buying used is 160,000kms. Anything more and it better have some steep discounts and minty. I know vehicles can last way longer, but, then they start nickle and diming you to death.

The duramax I just sold had 520k kms on it :dunno: Still going strong, and it looked like this:

http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e98/hitempguy/IMG_20170116_1523482_zpsoqxbu874%203_zpsyca5f2l3.jpg

Pretty nice shape. And I just bought one with 300k kms. My last gas trucks had 310k kms, 380k kms, and 250k kms respectively. The newest one, a 2008 2500HD with the 6.0L and 250k kms, was by far the most beat.

So it REALLY depends on how well they have been taken care of. Anything driven by employees who don't own the truck = run the hell away.


Originally posted by mzdspd


Also don't forget to factor in engine hours.. We have some (GM 2500HD Gas) field trucks that have 150-200k on them with like 8000+ hours. Hwy miles so that is not an issue but they just sit on location idling for days on end in the winter. So it puts wear and tear on the electrical components.

I find the best way to figure out if the truck has idled a lot is to take the hours ran and multiply by 60km/h average. See how close the # comes out to the odometer. Most trucks after ~2003 have engine hour meters.

Edit-
Anything over 5,000 hours for a gas truck, and I'd look elsewhere IMO.

[SKR]

Originally posted by HiTempguy1
I find the best way to figure out if the truck has idled a lot is to take the hours ran and multiply by 60km/h average. See how close the # comes out to the odometer. Most trucks after ~2003 have engine hour meters.

What an odd way to do that math. I would think most people would divide kilometers by hours.

[ExtraSlow]

This worried Spikeman enough to start his own poll thread. :D

[ExtraSlow]

Why the hell does anyone buy a 3/4 ton truck without the big trailer/camper mirrors? Have seen two on kijiji that looked decent, but have the useless tiny car mirrors on them like a 1500. What a waste.

Also, happy Monday everyone.

[mzdspd]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Why the hell does anyone buy a 3/4 ton truck without the big trailer/camper mirrors? Have seen two on kijiji that looked decent, but have the useless tiny car mirrors on them like a 1500. What a waste.

Also, happy Monday everyone.

You can pick up a set of tow mirrors off of ebay or amazon for like 150$ and then just pop the door panels off and plug them and install the mirrors. Super easy.

[SKR]

8.1s are always spec'd out perfect.

[corsvette]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Why the hell does anyone buy a 3/4 ton truck without the big trailer/camper mirrors? Have seen two on kijiji that looked decent, but have the useless tiny car mirrors on them like a 1500. What a waste.

Also, happy Monday everyone.

You'll have to become a Dodge guy so you can drive around with the trailer mirror flipped out ALL THE TIME. Don't know why, but that bothers me big time. Don't see Chevy/Ford tow mirrors constantly extended for the "look"

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by SKR
8.1s are always spec'd out perfect. You are an evil evil man.

[SKR]

One of these years I'm going to get you into one.

[speedog]

Originally posted by corsvette


You'll have to become a Dodge guy so you can drive around with the trailer mirror flipped out ALL THE TIME. Don't know why, but that bothers me big time. Don't see Chevy/Ford tow mirrors constantly extended for the "look"

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/7f/79/ff/7f79fff170bf137a607c25a18562a914.jpg

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by corsvette


You'll have to become a Dodge guy so you can drive around with the trailer mirror flipped out ALL THE TIME. Don't know why, but that bothers me big time. Don't see Chevy/Ford tow mirrors constantly extended for the "look"

bullhorns man, bullhorns

but flipped up doesn't take up any more space... if you yank those superduty mirrors out, they make it impossible to get through any drivethru

[ExtraSlow]

Nice Brodozer for sale.
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDUwWDgwMA==/z/yF8AAOSwU8hY49LE/$_27.JPG
2008 with 365,000 km for $14k. Nope nope nope.

[ExtraSlow]

Another Gem!
http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2010-ford-f-150-supercrew-pickup-truck/1251313620
2010 F150 with the 5.4L V8, lovely stripes and 502,000 km :nut:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDUwWDgwMA==/z/lrkAAOSwc-tY31k1/$_27.JPG

[corsvette]

^^^ Hutterite truck!!!!

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Another Gem!
http://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks/calgary/2010-ford-f-150-supercrew-pickup-truck/1251313620
2010 F150 with the 5.4L V8, lovely stripes and 502,000 km :nut:
http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NDUwWDgwMA==/z/lrkAAOSwc-tY31k1/$_27.JPG


As long as there aren't ticks and the 6r80 is solid... givr

[ExtraSlow]

Using another members $1000/10,000 I'm rule. I think it would be worth around $14k if it had 200,000 km, so it should be worth, negative $16,000?????

That particular truck has been for sale a long time. Suspect it'll sell for three Grand or so.

[carson blocks]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Why the hell does anyone buy a 3/4 ton truck without the big trailer/camper mirrors? Have seen two on kijiji that looked decent, but have the useless tiny car mirrors on them like a 1500. What a waste.

Also, happy Monday everyone.

When I had my '14 Ram 2500, the choice was either tow mirrors or power folding, as a power folding tow mirror wasn't available yet. I picked the power folding for convenience, then the few times a year I towed, popped on some cheap Amazon towing mirror extenders.

[spikerS]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Using another members $1000/10,000 I'm rule. I think it would be worth around $14k if it had 200,000 km, so it should be worth, negative $16,000?????

That particular truck has been for sale a long time. Suspect it'll sell for three Grand or so.

I think he meant if he was comparing 2 vehicles. if you were considering 2 vehicles, and there was 50,000kms difference, the higher mileage of the 2 should be $5,000 less when deciding value.

[carson blocks]

Originally posted by spikerS


I think he meant if he was comparing 2 vehicles. if you were considering 2 vehicles, and there was 50,000kms difference, the higher mileage of the 2 should be $5,000 less when deciding value.

It depends as well on the age and total mileage of the vehicle. The price gap on 2 2003 trucks with 250,000 and 300,000kms will be significantly less than the price gap on 2 2015 trucks with 25,000 and 75,000 kms.

[ExtraSlow]

One of my favourite things about GMC and Cheveroet trucks is that sticker in the gloverbox with the RP codes on it. So many owners know nearly nothing about their vehicles, or pretend to be ignorant when you call them, but that little sticker tells you every single option the truck left the factory with. Very handy, even if it is a little bit of a process to fully decode it.
Handy stuff like axle ratio, locking rear diff, HD trailering package etc that rarely shows up in a kijiji advertisement.

Have been contacted by a couple of beyonders. If anyone else is selling a truck this month, give me a shout. I'm getting my act together soon-ish, and I'm ready to move if I find the right deal.



:goflames:

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by r3ccOs
As long as there aren't ticks and the 6r80 is solid... givr



Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Using another members $1000/10,000 I'm rule. I think it would be worth around $14k if it had 200,000 km, so it should be worth, negative $16,000?????

That particular truck has been for sale a long time. Suspect it'll sell for three Grand or so. Hah, I should call that dude and offer three grand. Couldn't loose at that price . . . .

[SKR]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
One of my favourite things about GMC and Cheveroet trucks is that sticker in the gloverbox with the RP codes on it. So many owners know nearly nothing about their vehicles, or pretend to be ignorant when you call them, but that little sticker tells you every single option the truck left the factory with. Very handy, even if it is a little bit of a process to fully decode it.
Handy stuff like axle ratio, locking rear diff, HD trailering package etc that rarely shows up in a kijiji advertisement.

Yeah that's handy. Do Ford and Dodge not do that?

If you can get the VIN, you can take it to the dealer and they can print off a list of all the RPO codes, as well as what the codes are, so you don't have to look them up. I've done it for my 81 GMC. The other manufacturers might be able to do that too, I don't know.

Edit: If the 8th digit in the VIN is "G", don't even bother looking up the codes. Buy it right away because the G means it's perfect.

[ExtraSlow]

I don't think Ford and Dodge do that same thing. You can use the VIN to get a reprint of the Original window sticker I think.

I have a strong contender, and best of all, it's from a beyonder. Some details to work out. It's got character, but it's not an 8.1.

If anyone has another truck they want me to look at, they should post it here asap.

[ExtraSlow]

Picked something up yesterday. It's not home yet, so no pictures, will get those up in a day or so.

It's a 2009 F150 SuperCrew, XLT with FX4 package. Cloth seats, no rear camera. 5.4L engine, 4x4, tonneau cover, good michelin load range E tires. Trailer mirrors and trailer brake controller.

Interior is good, exterior is good except for some rust on the painted front bumper and on three rock chips above the windshield. Compustar remote starter, Engine is quiet, drives nice.

288,000 kms on the Odo.

Paid $9000. assuming it runs for the summer, I think I did okay. I know there are similar trucks listed for a hell of a lot more.

Was close on a deal with a beyonder for his truck.

[HiTempguy1]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow

It's a 2009 F150 SuperCrew, XLT with FX4 package. Cloth seats, no rear camera. 5.4L engine, 4x4, tonneau cover, good michelin load range E tires. Trailer mirrors and trailer brake controller.

You think its going to handle your setup nearly as well as the 3/4 ton did?? What kind of rear gear?

[mr2mike]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Trailer mirrors and trailer brake controller.


Those add about +80ft lbs of torque right there!

Enjoy the summer.

[benyl]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow

It's a 2009 F150 SuperCrew, XLT with FX4 package. Cloth seats, no rear camera. 5.4L engine, 4x4, tonneau cover, good michelin load range E tires. Trailer mirrors and trailer brake controller.


hmm. The FX4 wasn't a packaged in 2009 as far as I am aware. It's either an XLT / XTR with all of the skid plates and the like or it is an FX4 without the Lux package that gave you leather seats.

The FX4 has an electronic locking rear diff. You pull on the 4x4 selector when in 4 Hi or 4 low. No locker, no FX4.

[ExtraSlow]

Pretty sure the FX4 was an options package in 2009, and not a separate trim level like it was in 2011-2014.
It's got the 3.73 locking axle and appears to have the max tow option which would be rated at 11,100 lbs trailer weight.

I know no half-ton truck will handle a trailer like a 3/4 ton truck would, and that the Ford 5.4L engine isn't as torquey as the GMC 6.0L, or the Ford EcoBoost, both of which i have previously used for this trailer. Guess I'll just drive slower.

I don't haul much gear, and the tongue weight is fine for a half ton, I've tested that.

[ExtraSlow]

Here's some photos, hopefully not too "potato", I need a new phone.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2840/34164727105_833278a74d_b.jpg
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2817/34123889266_e50c533917_b.jpg
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2882/34123888496_f33ded8487_b.jpg
Some rust on the painted front bumper. May repaint this section.
https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2901/34123889846_7820672228_b.jpg

[HiTempguy1]

Damn, that's in nice shape. I'm surprised that a 2009 1/2 ton anything with close to 300k kms is worth almost $10k though :nut: Sign o the times I suppose.

[benyl]

Yeah, that's an FX4. 2009-2014 its a trim level. In 2015 it became an option. I have a 2010 FX4.

Yours looks like the base FX4 which is just an XLT with the off road bits. No colored door handles, leather, etc.

I have the FX4 Luxury package, which is just a Lariat with colored bumpers and off road bits.

I Have the rust disease on my front bumper too. I am thinking of getting color matched Line-X done. It's like $800 or something.

Yours has the long box. Have fun in the parking lots. Even with my short box, I end up parking far away and walking.

[btimbit]

Yup that's an FX4 trim, not an option like the new ones. It was it's own trim level in the half tons from 2004-2014, but an optional package in the super duty

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by benyl
Yours looks like the base FX4 which is just an XLT with the off road bits. No colored door handles, leather, etc.

I have the FX4 Luxury package, which is just a Lariat with colored bumpers and off road bits.

I Have the rust disease on my front bumper too. I am thinking of getting color matched Line-X done. It's like $800 or something.

Yours has the long box. Have fun in the parking lots. Even with my short box, I end up parking far away and walking.
Yep, mine is the "base" version with cloth seats. I'm for sure not spending $800 on that bumper. May spend $0. The painted bumpers rust so easily, it's a common problem, but luckily just a cosmetic issue.

Long box for sure add a little joy to the parking situation. But I'm still rolling in the honda fit for my urban attacks. This thing will be used out of town mostly.

[btimbit]

I have lots of stuff and speciality tools that would fit that truck. I know you're only planning on having it for the summer, but figured I'd throw it out there.

Brand new battery, brand new passenger side exhaust manifold w/ studs and gasket, OTC valve spring compressor, cam timing tool, BackRack headache rack, probably some other stuff I can't remember. All for cheap and just taking up space in my garage.

And on a similar note, I've had 4 trucks with that engine so let me know if you have any questions

[ExtraSlow]

thanks btimbit. Don't need anything yet, but will let you know.

[ExtraSlow]

.

[carson blocks]

I don't think that's unusual for a 5.4. I've heard there are cam phaser lockouts you can put in, then have a tune to disable the VCT function. Cheaper fix possibly.

[bourge73]

Could be a coil pack though they love them

[bourge73]

Also there is a old ford mechanic that posts on Kijiji
He says he can fix all Ford cam issues. Might be worth checking out

[SKR]

I'm over-retarded too and I'm getting by, so it might not be too bad.

[ExtraSlow]

True story brother.
Where is that beyonder who was going to sell me his chevy . . . ? :rofl:

[benyl]

I should check if I'm retarded. :rofl: It's like driving a ticking time bomb.

[ExtraSlow]

I love reading kijiji

[carson blocks]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
I may see about clearing the codes and selling it afterwards to gamble on another truck for the rest of the summer.


Just my opinion, but selling it knowing the phasers are gone and just clearing the codes and unloading it without saying anything is kind of a dick move. I'd either fix it, sell it as is with disclosure, or sell it at an auction, where it's buyer beware.



Originally posted by benyl
I should check if I'm retarded. :rofl: It's like driving a ticking time bomb.

If you buy a used 5.4 instead of a GM LS 5.3/ 6.0, you are! lol

[never]

Originally posted by carson blocks


If you buy a used 5.4 instead of a GM LS 5.3/ 6.0, you are! lol

And he could always just swap an LS in if the 5.4 is done.

[carson blocks]

Hate to suggest swapping in another Ford cammer, but I hear the V10 is pretty bulletproof. Great towing motor too.

[benyl]

Originally posted by carson blocks

If you buy a used 5.4 instead of a GM LS 5.3/ 6.0, you are! lol

I bought it new in 2010.

[ExtraSlow]

Yes, selling it with a known issue that I didn't disclose would be a dick move. I do full disclosure for beyond.ca members, but not always for kijiji. I don't think I'm up for sainthood. Maybe I'm on par with dave? Although I'm always nice to the folks at subway. :dunno:

Anyway, didn't clear the codes, and went for a two hour drive today, some of it fairly spirited, up big hills, used 4Lo in a parking lot for a while, spent quite a bit of time in reverse, generally worked the engine hard.

At the end of it hooked up the scan tool and even the "pending" codes were gone, and I had seen no rough running or evidence of an issue.

So at this point, I'm calling this a "very intermittent" issue and I'll see how things go when I'm towing on the long weekend.

Countdown to selling this truck if it runs well is only 14 weeks anyway. Could be less if I'm not happy with it. Going to try really hard not to pay a mechanic for anything. Certainly not a V10 or LS swap, since both of those would require different transmissions and probably a complete donor truck. Doubt I'd get either job done in 14 weeks.

Anywhoooooo, will report back.

[never]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Certainly not a V10 or LS swap, since both of those would require different transmissions and probably a complete donor truck.

What fun is that??

[ExtraSlow]

I am no fun. Never have been, ask my wife or the dozen or so beyonders that know me. I'm the most boring fucking guy.

[bourge73]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
I am no fun. Never have been, ask my wife or the dozen or so beyonders that know me. I'm the most boring fucking guy.

The whole at least Iam not Dave thing is a positive though ?:dunno:

[ExtraSlow]

Well, Dave has some wicked tradesman skillz, which I don't. He probably comes out ahead. :thumbsup:

[ShermanEF9]

Originally posted by SKR
I'm over-retarded too and I'm getting by, so it might not be too bad.

I lost it to this comment. :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

[ExtraSlow]

SKR nails it. :love:

[SKR]

I always try my best to entertain.

[r3ccOs]

Lockout is truly your best option... I do believe the VCT upgrade released in 2012 makes a big difference by ensuring the phasers receive the correct oil pressure, however as Ford was new at this game and basically upgraded the triton's top end with a 3v vvt setup, there was a lot of learnings from this venture.

The 2v was incredibly reliable... so if you just lock out the phasers you at least get the benefit of another exhaust valve and the 6t80 which is quite a reliable trans

[ExtraSlow]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Adding insult to injury, the trailer wiring appears to be damaged. Truck doesn't sense the trailer when it's connected. Yep, I needed that. :guns:
Truck had a blown fuse relating to trailer function. REplaced fuse, and it works on my 7-pin trailer tester now anyway. Be nice if that part is that easy.

[carson blocks]

Also, if your 5.4 is in the year range for the spark plug issues, maybe do some Googling on that. Many 5.4 users just skip replacing plugs which doesn't help high mile 5.4s run well. They can be replaced if you're careful and prepared, and there are tools and procedures if one should happen to break.

[craigcd]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow

Truck had a blown fuse relating to trailer function. REplaced fuse, and it works on my 7-pin trailer tester now anyway. Be nice if that part is that easy.

Pretty sure I had a friend who was having issues with connecting the trailer while running and the lights not working. Seemed odd but starting and restarting fixed it.

[ExtraSlow]

Ended up needing to replace the 7-way plug at the back of the truck. Replacing the plug was easy. Fucking around for hours and hours trying to decide if I should was maddening.

[craigcd]

^^^^

Hahaha, been there done that.

[ExtraSlow]

Parking brake wasn't grabbing. Cable had stretched significantly. Shortened it up, brakes work now. Probably could use new parking brake shoes and hardware, but hey, at least I have something to hold me on a hill if I need it now.

Truck ran great all weekend. Trailer brakes worked flawlessly.

Rear diff was a little low of fluid, so I topped that up. Handy that I had some gear oil around.

[ExtraSlow]

Was out to Kananaskis and back this weekend. Truck ran good, except when backing into campsite. Got the same rough idle that I was talking about before. Really weird that it seems only to be an issue when backing the trailer up.

I`m not fixing it, so it`s more of an annoyance than anything.

[Brent.ff]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Was out to Kananaskis and back this weekend. Truck ran good, except when backing into campsite. Got the same rough idle that I was talking about before. Really weird that it seems only to be an issue when backing the trailer up.

I`m not fixing it, so it`s more of an annoyance than anything.

where'd ya camp?

[mr2mike]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
Was out to Kananaskis and back this weekend. Truck ran good, except when backing into campsite. Got the same rough idle that I was talking about before. Really weird that it seems only to be an issue when backing the trailer up.

I`m not fixing it, so it`s more of an annoyance than anything.

Didn't read the whole thread but this could be a vac leak, hole in a coupler and you just notice it because of low speeds backing up??
Or just the load on the engine when power steering is being used at low speeds?? I'm guessing here.

[ExtraSlow]

was at elkwood. Water is off due to ground still frozen. Still lots of snow out there. There are piles of snow at the back of every site where they had to plow out the sites this year. Did the upper lake circuit, and the entire north side was 3 feet deep in snow that wasn`t quite packed enough to stand on top of. Added an extra hour at least to the hike.

Had a great weekend.

[Brent.ff]

Originally posted by ExtraSlow
was at elkwood. Water is off due to ground still frozen. Still lots of snow out there. There are piles of snow at the back of every site where they had to plow out the sites this year. Did the upper lake circuit, and the entire north side was 3 feet deep in snow that wasn`t quite packed enough to stand on top of. Added an extra hour at least to the hike.

Had a great weekend.

we were at interlakes, and there was a similar red f150 so was wondering. def a good weekend

[btimbit]

For what you use the truck for I wouldn't bother messing around with the VCT stuff. I had the issue with my last truck for years and never did anything about it until last fall when I locked them out. Didn't really make a difference in how it drove, just a smoother idle.

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by btimbit
For what you use the truck for I wouldn't bother messing around with the VCT stuff. I had the issue with my last truck for years and never did anything about it until last fall when I locked them out. Didn't really make a difference in how it drove, just a smoother idle.

I know there was always talks about how unburnt fuel will blow into the exhaust manifolds and eat up the cat and risk a fire due to the temps... but I really doubt it.

you're right, I've heard tons of people with the tic's operate just fine.

did you find any power decrease or worse efficiency with the lockout?

[btimbit]

Originally posted by r3ccOs


I know there was always talks about how unburnt fuel will blow into the exhaust manifolds and eat up the cat and risk a fire due to the temps... but I really doubt it.

you're right, I've heard tons of people with the tic's operate just fine.

did you find any power decrease or worse efficiency with the lockout?

Guaranteed it'll do some damage long term, but for what OP is doing with the truck it's probably not necessary.

The tune it came with kind of changed where the power was in the rev range, but didn't really make it any faster or slower. Just...different.

Another thing to to look at OP, sometimes it's not the phasors themselves that are bad but simply that they aren't getting enough oil pressure to work properly. It's a much simpler repair to do too. Think they're called VCT solenoids or something like that. Still wouldn't bother myself, though

[r3ccOs]

Originally posted by btimbit


Guaranteed it'll do some damage long term, but for what OP is doing with the truck it's probably not necessary.

The tune it came with kind of changed where the power was in the rev range, but didn't really make it any faster or slower. Just...different.

Another thing to to look at OP, sometimes it's not the phasors themselves that are bad but simply that they aren't getting enough oil pressure to work properly. It's a much simpler repair to do too. Think they're called VCT solenoids or something like that. Still wouldn't bother myself, though

thats right.. so if by 2012 you didn't have a pooched triton, they released a TSB and new VCT solenoids that gave the proper pressure for the phasers (2 years late of the last triton engine)

[ExtraSlow]

Well, truck has been running great out to Saskatchewan and around southern Alberta. Bucked some strong headwinds for a few hours, which destroyed my fuel economy, but economy returned when the wind calmed down. No lack of power when I let the revs climb. Been very stable in the wind too.
Will be putting up a kijiji advert for this thing in week or two. Last day of towing is September 4th. Have already had one beyond member interested, if anyone else wants to discuss a purchase let me know.

[ExtraSlow]

Have had a couple beyond members asking for a better description. Here it is:
2009 F150 Supercrew 4x4. 6.5 foot box with tonneau cover and spray in bed liner. 295,000 kms. 5.4L V8 engine and max tow package and FX4 package which includes 3.73 locking rear axle, brake controller, skid plates, 135L fuel tank and power adjustable trailer mirrors. Parking sensors, power drivers seat, fog lights, power rear window. Cloth bucket seats. Come with Compustar 2-way alarm with two remotes and two keys.
No cracks in windshield. Some rust on front bumper. E Rated Michelin LTX tires. A few small dents and scratches in paint, but overall looks quite good.

Rated to 11,100 lbs towing.


This truck in flawless condition would be worth around $16,000 or more.
I will be listing on kijiji for $11,500,soon. Beyond price with discounts is $10,000

Fresh oil change. I need this truck until September 4th.

[Twin_Cam_Turbo]

Ill be interested to see what you get for this considering it seems to be in decent shape. In the past few months i've bought some 2010 supercrew FX4s with anywhere from 80000-135000km for $12000-14500 CAD.

[ExtraSlow]

Well, had a small hailstorm Aug 10th hit this truck. I'm booked to have my insurer take a look. Usually the PDR tech or whomever is doing the inspection finds much more than I do. Fingers crossed boys!