Ford tests 2017 SD with TC simulator

[nohurry]

Didn't see that this has been posted before, but I thought you guys over here might be interested in this. Short article, and video

Here

[c_traveler2]

Using a real TC would have been the best way to go, but as they stated;
TCM: Why not use a Ford Truck Camper for your tests? For example, the Ford 11S slide-out model?

Scott: We used to do the tests using actual slide-in campers, but we were destroying the campers because of how much testing we were doing. So, we built the simulators to mimic the inertia properties and mass of the truck campers. Now, using the test simulators, we aren’t tearing apart campers. Every year we have used the simulators test the new trucks.


Also as stated in the interview with Ford the truck in the video had only 5000 lbs payload on it.
TCM: From your description, the simulator wasn’t 7,500 pounds in the video.

Scott: It was not at 7,500 pounds during the video. We were testing a crew cab model, so the simulator in the test was 5,000 pounds

I personally don't consider this a real TC test since the "simulator" is an open frame unit with very little drag to it, unlike a real TC or having the wind hitting you sideway trying to push you off the road.

[Boatycall]

I also just found this little tid-bit -- Fuel tank size will based on wheel base, with the CC LB having 49 gallons---

Wheelbase lengths were 137”, 142”, 156”, 158” and 172”.
They are now, respectively, 142”, 148”, 160”, 164” and 176”.

30 Gallon
(Diesel Engine) – 142"or 148” Wheelbase
35 Gallon
(Diesel Engine) – 160" or 164" Wheelbase
48.5 Gallon (Gas Engine) – 176” Wheelbase
49 Gallon
(Diesel Engine) – 176" Wheelbase

[jimh406]

There's an almost 40K reason I traded for a used 2010 F450 instead of buying a new one! Time will tell, but I figure I don't drive it enough to cover needing a new one. My friend just bought a F350 DRW new. It's really nice and also way less than a F450 because they'll cut great deals on them, but I wanted the F450s brakes, drive train, and turn radius.

[Boatycall]

usmcshepherd wrote:
was there a significant difference between the 350/450 in regards to both price as well as capacity?

Yes, big difference, I'm not even considering a F350 nor did I price one. I've done a LOT of reading...if I'm going to spend $80k for a new ANYTHING I read up on it obviously.

Tons of changes from an F350 to F450, but not a lot of changes in the 2016 vs 2017 F450 as far as actual drive train, but a lot of changes to the body/frame from '16 to 17.

2017 F350 vs F450 differences--
F450 comes with a Dana110 14k-lb rear end vs. a Dana80 10k-lb.
Dana 'Super 60' Front vs 'non-super' -- 7k-lb axle vs 6k.
19.5's vs. 17"
Same brakes as the Cab/Chassis F450 -- 14.5" front rotors vs 12" (since they have the extra room from the 19.5s)
15.5" rear rotors vs 12.5"

2017 F450 changes vs. 2016--
HP/Trq has not been published yet, but rumors persist of 1,000lbs torque.
Aluminum body
Boxed frame
Manual exhaust brake switch
Remote mountable trailer camera
360 degree down view camera system

Like most of us with Ford F350s, I have a Dana80 with 17s right now. I'm right at the ragged edge of their capacity. Getting a new F350 would gain me nothing but HP and fancy goodies.

[usmcshepherd]

Look good....thank you for taking the time to post....was there a significant difference between the 350/450 in regards to both price as well as capacity?

[Boatycall]

usmcshepherd wrote:
Boatycall....just out of interest would you mind sharing what trim level and options you selected on the 2017 Super Duty to give us an idea of what $73k buys?

Uh boy... ok, I thought about just scanning in the quote, but we can't post a pic that big.
Here goes-- (If I missed something don't shoot me)

2017 F450 4x4 - MSRP $62025

Lariat Package $3440 - includes moonroof, NAV, Remote start, tailgate step, htd/cooled 10-way power front seats.
Chrome pkg $1035
FX4 Offroad kit $272
Rapid Supplemental Cab Heat $231 -- Includes Dual 200a alternators
Engine block heater $69
Camper Package (of course) $148
Adaptive cruise $680
Quad beam LED Headlights $993
Blind Spot info system $496
Mudflaps $119
Upfitter switches $152
Garage Door Opener $115
Bed liner $456
Heated Rear Seat $276
Tow Technology Bundle $1596 includes adaptive steering, remote trailer camera and lane departure warning system


Fuel Charge $77
Destination & Delivery $1195

$73,375

So ya, could I do away with a couple things? Sure... rear heated seats, do the bedliner myself, get mudflaps myself, but really, none of that amounts to a whole heck of a lot in the big scheme of things.

[Bedlam]

My Tradesman trim 5500 came in under $60k even with fees and taxes.

[usmcshepherd]

Boatycall....just out of interest would you mind sharing what trim level and options you selected on the 2017 Super Duty to give us an idea of what $73k buys?

[Boatycall]

Quoting the article-- "“The test simulates carrying a camper weighing more than 7,500 pounds, loaded with fresh water, cooking gear, fuel and batteries.”'.

Funny, I don't recall loaning them my camper....

I have my truck at the Stealer-ship right now having the brakes figured out once and for all... I stopped over at the Fleet Manager's office and had him price me out a shiny new 2017 F450.

**gulp**

$72,300 + Washington state sales tax of almost 10%.

Mine's paid for.... it just doesn't stop.

[gbopp]

fla-gypsy wrote:

If you read the article you understand the reasoning. It made sense

I did read the article. I just think it would be more interesting if they added the wind resistance of a real camper to the equation. 🙂

[fla-gypsy]

gbopp wrote:
FWIW, I think they should have used a real TC (minus markings) rather than a simulator.

If you read the article you understand the reasoning. It made sense

[gbopp]

FWIW, I think they should have used a real TC (minus markings) rather than a simulator.

[nohurry]

Yeah, I'm always a day late, and a dollar short. 😉

[mellow]

Posted yesterday.

https://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/28869863.cfm