Ford
offers a choice of three engines in the SuperDutys: the 7.3L
PowerStroke Diesel, and two overhead-cam Triton powerplants - a 5.8L
V8 and 6.8L V10.
The
7.3L PowerStroke Diesel is the largest in its class putting out
235hp@2,700rpm and 500lbs-ft of torque @ 1,600rpm for low end towing
muscle. Ford claims that you can pull a full rated load up a steep
grade, at extreme temperatures, at any altitude up to 10,000 feet.
Not too shabby. Both a 6-speed manual and 4R100 automatic
transmissions can be coupled with the PowerStroke.
The
5.4L SOHC* V8 Triton puts out 225hp@3,600rpm and 330lbs-ft of torque
@ 2,700rpm. The
6.8L SOHC* V10 Triton puts out 445hp@4,300rpm and 415lbs-ft of torque
@ 2,700rpm. Both
Triton engines are made to travel 100,000 miles before a tune-up is
needed under normal driving conditions as long as you change your
fluids and filters regularly. And if you get into towing trouble
and lose all cooling fluid, the cooling system will automatically
sequence alternate cylinder firings to help protect against damage
and let you 'limp' to a service station.
