Not so long ago, trucks just had a bench seat, four-wheel drive and maybe the squad riding on the bed.
Today, technology has evolved, widening your pool of choices. As a result, choosing a utility truck can be nerve-wracking. So how do you go about it?
In this post we’re going to walk you through some of the things to consider when choosing a Ford work truck.
Let’s jump in. Here are some things you may want to look out for!
1. The Cab Style
The Ford truck comes in different cab designs:
The Regular Cab Configuration – If you usually drive on your own, this is a good fit. Even better, the 2-door cab can accommodate up to three passengers. This means you will have increased payload capacity depending on the cab and bed configuration. For example, the maximum payload on the 2022 regular cab F-150 is 3,325 pounds.
The Super Cab Configuration – Up to six passengers can sit in this four-door cab. The Super Cab also features two regular doors and two smaller back doors with rear hinges for access to the back seat. These half doors can only be opened when the front doors are open. Lastly, the rear windows in this cab design are smaller than standard windows, but still give you a nice view.
The SuperCrew Configuration – As the largest available cabin, this is the best choice if you have a crew you’re regularly transporting. The SuperCrew is a full-size cab with four regular doors and a comfortable seating for six.
2. The Bed Size
Your cargo bed choice will depend on what you’ll be hauling. That said, Ford trucks have three bed options:
5.5-foot bed – Available exclusively with SuperCrew cab models. It’s also the only choice for the Ford Raptor. This design offers better handling off-road and enhances maneuverability in urban areas.
6.5-foot bed – Available with all cab configurations. This set-up satisfies most hauling needs without compromising maneuverability.
8-foot bed – Available with regular and Super Cab models. The longer length improves the maximum payload capacity because there’s better weight distribution in front and behind the rear axle. If hauling lumber for instance, the 8-foot bed is the best choice.
Additionally, the Ford Ranger has only two sizes: 5-foot and 6-foot. And if you don’t need a whole lot of cargo space, the Ford Maverick comes with a 4.5-foot bed. The 6.75-foot and 8-foot bed size options are also available for the Ford Super Duty.
3. The Type of Fuel
Ford work trucks are available in:
Gasoline – This is the most common type of fuel and works best if you’re hauling light loads and taking short trips.
Diesel – Compared to a diesel option, a gasoline engine operates at a higher rpm to produce the same power. That means if hauling heavier loads, a diesel engine will achieve better efficiency.
Hybrid – Uses a combination of both gasoline and electricity. To improve efficiency hybrid trucks use regenerative braking. This is a system through which the energy produced during braking is harnessed, stored in batteries, and later used to run the engine.
Electric – The Ford F-150 Lightning is the only one in this category and comes in two battery options. The standard range battery can do about 230 miles per charge while the extended range battery delivers about 320 miles.
4. Towing Capacity
You’re probably wondering…what is Ford’s truck towing capacity?
Ford trucks have diverse towing capacities. Take the Ford F-150 Lightning for instance, the standard range model has a maximum towing capacity of 7700 pounds while the extended range option has 10000 pounds. In the same Ford F-150 lineup, other models can tow anywhere from 5000 to 13000 pounds depending on the vehicle configuration such as engine type, bed length and cab design.
And if you need to tow a very large trailer or commercial equipment, the Super Duty trucks have got you covered. For more juice, you also get fifth wheel towing. This Ford lineup can tow between 18,000 and 34,000 pounds.
5. Power and Engine Size
It can be challenging achieving the right balance between power and fuel efficiency. And that’s why Ford offers a diverse selection of engines to match your needs. For example, the Ford F-150 has six engine choices.
So which Ford work truck is the best?
This will be different for everyone. Your choice will be dependent on the type of driving you’ll be doing, your budget and your hauling needs.
And the best part?
You can get in touch or stop by today to check out the various Ford Trucks and learn more about the various trim levels and configurations.
