Pulled the trigger on a new F150 today.

[jimmysisson]

Your shop vac works easier with the hose restricted - that's why the fan motor speeds up. Not better, but easier on the motor (until it overheats).
Jim

 

[oliver1555]

My suggestion requires nothing but a software change to existing hardware, but I do believe that an engine (now just an air pump) that is pumping a bunch of air needs more power than an engine that is pumping just a little air (you can check this out, put your hand over the end of the suction hose of your shop vac and see if it speeds up or slows down.)

Your vacuum motor speeds up because there is reduced air flow and less load.

Creating vacuum is how gas engines absorb power and therefore provide a level of retarding. Opening the intake to air would be the same principle as a diesel engine. A diesel engine does not restrict airflow and basically acts as an air pump when fuel is restricted. The compression stroke would provide braking, except that the compressed air pushes back equally after the piston reaches the top of the stroke and heads back down. Clessie Cummins realized this and devised a way to release the pressure near the top of the stroke (opening the exhaust valve and releasing the pressure), basically turning the engine into an air compressor. Exhaust brakes on pickups create backpressure to achieve a level of retarding.

 

[grandall4]

Congrats on the new boost. I highly recommend getting an aftermarket tune. It will get the power, torque, and trans shifts right where you want them. It's the best mod I've done to my 2013 FX4. Second best mod was adding a second set of reverse lights. The factory ones are useless.

 

[WilliamBos]

First mod needs to be a catch can - tons of oil gets passed through PCV system, carbon build up on intake valves is the issue with DI engines. The dual injected 2018 solves this issue.

The Biggest Problem with Ford's Ecoboost Engine & How to Fix It: RX Catch Can Installation - YouTube

 

[gsganzer]

I just don't see the utility in a 5.5' bed -- crosses under the threshold of usefulness to me. But some people need them to fit in their garages (my truck stays outdoors, so I don't care about that).

I would have gotten an 8' bed if available with crew cab on my 2014 GMC, but 6.5' was as long as they offered. It's been a good compromise actually, and I have no real complaints. Can fit 8' lumber diagonally with the tailgate closed, and not even have to mess with tie-downs.

Our 2014 has the 5.5'bed and I hate the dang thing. Like you said, it crosses the threshold of usefulness. I consider that truck a SUV with an open trunk.

Now with my 3500, it has a 9.5' x 8' flatbed. It looks like an aircraft carrier in comparison.

 

[gsganzer]

One of the nice things about a Ford, is there are lots of hidden software settings that you can enable and disable to make the truck operate how you want. You can completely disable the auto-start/stop, the double-honk when you close the door if you get out with the engine running and the key in your pocket, and many other useful things to make the truck less annoying and more useful.

This is true. Look in your owners manual. I was able to turn off the seatbelt chime for when I'm at the deerlease getting in and out to open and close gates.