Just can't get a good basic truck, like the old days!

[RB5]

I just looked at a Tradesman spec online. For $41k I get less power, less towing capacity, less payload, a smaller fuel tank, and 2 wheel drive with no e-locker. My 2013 F150 STX 4x4 has less junk on it, and is more capable. Once I get above $40k it doesn't matter a few thousand more to get what I would rather have. That doesn't seem like a good option to me. The STX is in my opinion one of the better values.

I used to own a Dodge Ram. I looked with an open mind and did not really like what I see on the Tradesman. The only thing I could see it better on is MPG, and not by enough to matter. I am comparing this to a new F150 with the similar specs to what I have, not my old one. I did not look into what deals are available currently.

 

[4570Man]

I just looked at a Tradesman spec online. For $41k I get less power, less towing capacity, less payload, a smaller fuel tank, and 2 wheel drive with no e-locker. My 2013 F150 STX 4x4 has less junk on it, and is more capable. Once I get above $40k it doesn't matter a few thousand more to get what I would rather have. That doesn't seem like a good option to me. The STX is in my opinion one of the better values.

I used to own a Dodge Ram. I looked with an open mind and did not really like what I see on the Tradesman. The only thing I could see it better on is MPG, and not by enough to matter. I am comparing this to a new F150 with the similar specs to what I have, not my old one. I did not look into what deals are available currently.

A Ram half ton is coil springs in the back and by far the least capable of the big 3 half ton trucks.

 

[RB5]

A Ram half ton is coil springs in the back and by far the least capable of the big 3 half ton trucks.

yeah I forgot about that.

 

[paulsharvey]

So, lets say any one of the big 4, in a 1500 class, moved payload upto 2500#, but also all came with air bags; would you avoid it for the complexity or be intrigued by the added capabilities?

 

[Hay Dude]

I just looked at a Tradesman spec online. For $41k I get less power, less towing capacity, less payload, a smaller fuel tank, and 2 wheel drive with no e-locker. My 2013 F150 STX 4x4 has less junk on it, and is more capable. Once I get above $40k it doesn't matter a few thousand more to get what I would rather have. That doesn't seem like a good option to me. The STX is in my opinion one of the better values.

I used to own a Dodge Ram. I looked with an open mind and did not really like what I see on the Tradesman. The only thing I could see it better on is MPG, and not by enough to matter. I am comparing this to a new F150 with the similar specs to what I have, not my old one. I did not look into what deals are available currently.

I was talking Ram HD Cummins, not 1/2 tons.
A 1/2 ton in MY operation would be useless as teets on a bull.

 

[deserteagle71]

So, lets say any one of the big 4, in a 1500 class, moved payload upto 2500#, but also all came with air bags; would you avoid it for the complexity or be intrigued by the added capabilities?

Me - definitely avoid. Can't beat the simplicity and load-carrying ability of leaf springs. These new trucks are complicated enough without adding air suspension to the mix. I've read of multiple cases of air suspension failure, disabling the vehicle. Don't hear of leaf springs failing!

 

[4570Man]

Don't hear of leaf springs failing!

Actually yes you do. Class 8 trucks break springs all the time. It’s common enough that you’re supposed to look through over the spring packs in the pre trip inspection. Breaking them in pickups is less common but they do wear out. I changed them on my last ton truck because it was riding on the overload spring unloaded. The air ride assist idea isn’t new either. My mom had a suburban in 2002 with air assist suspension. I bought a Nissan armada from a guy I worked with that needed cash and it had the same thing.

 

[Jstpssng]

Don't hear of leaf springs failing!

Is that your final answer? I've replaced many leaf springs and spring sets over the years. I've never had a catastrophic failure, however.

 

[deserteagle71]

Is that your final answer? I've replaced many leaf springs and spring sets over the years. I've never had a catastrophic failure, however.

So what are you doing to destroy leaf springs?? Been through a lot of vehicles in my time...both pickups I currently own are over 20 years old. I have NEVER had to replace leaf springs and don't know of anyone else who had to replace theirs. My 2004 dually lives with a 3000+ lb camper in the bed and has for many years and the springs are still going fine. No sagging.

 

[4570Man]

So what are you doing to destroy leaf springs?? Been through a lot of vehicles in my time...both pickups I currently own are over 20 years old. I have NEVER had to replace leaf springs and don't know of anyone else who had to replace theirs. My 2004 dually lives with a 3000+ lb camper in the bed and has for many years and the springs are still going fine. No sagging.

I’d like to have a pickup with 100 percent air ride like class 8 trucks. There’s no need for springs and air. That’s just more complexity that isn’t needed. The reason I’d like air ride is to air up and down under the trailer hitch. Yes I realize they make hydraulic jacks but it isn’t practical to get every trailer with that.