Questions on F-350 options

[orbsah]

Hi all – I’m getting closer to a new truck and seeking opinions on some of the options that are available. Were these worth it to you? Or did you wish you had any? Thanks!

Basic truck that I’m planning to go with: F-350, Lariat, Crew Cab, 8’ bed, Diesel, 4x4, DRW, 3.55 gearing
With at least these options: FX4 off-road package, Spray-in bedliner, 5th wheel prep

Here are some options I’m not so sure about:
Lariat Ultimate Package ($3355) vs. Lariat Value Package ($710) vs. Power Equipment Group (included): Any thoughts? Are you really using all the features of the Ultimate package?

Tow Technology Package ($2150) vs. Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera ($710): Any thoughts?

Rear Camera Center High ($200) vs Customer placed ($375) vs. Individual trailer ($725): Any thoughts? Seems it’d be good to have some rear facing camera, but I don’t think I need 7’ish cameras.

Heavy Service front suspension: I have no plans for a snowplow; Too rough of a ride if added?

Engine Block Heater: Anyone use this?

Splash guards/mud flaps: Really, I have to pay extra for this?

Wheel Well Liner – Front: Same as above – I have to pay for this?

Upfitter Switches: Kinda cool, but not sure what I’d use these for.

Any other options that I’m missing?

 

[Fl2GaScotts]

Don't have a Ford, but in my shopping previous I would have wanted the package that included adaptive cruise, Lane keep, etc. Don't think the blind spot assist was part but that as well. Still haven't found anything to use my upfitter switches for, added external lighting is an option, maybe compressor for air bags (?). Engine block heater, depends where you live or may travel...

Good luck

 

[Superduty-MGRV]

I have a 13 Ford Diesel.
Engine block heater. I would get, even if you don’t use it, for what little cost it is. Especially if the truck will set outside in temps from the teens into the negative numbers.
I also have the Rapid Supplemental Heat Element. This is a electric heater (like a hair blow dryer) that when u start the truck, set the fan speed on a low to med speed and enjoy the heat until the motor gets up to temperature. Once the truck reaches temp, the fluid does the heating. I think this was a $250.00 option back then.

Just checked. Still a $250.00 option

 

[traveldawg]

Hi all – I’m getting closer to a new truck and seeking opinions on some of the options that are available. Were these worth it to you? Or did you wish you had any? Thanks!

Basic truck that I’m planning to go with: F-350, Lariat, Crew Cab, 8’ bed, Diesel, 4x4, DRW, 3.55 gearing
With at least these options: FX4 off-road package, Spray-in bedliner, 5th wheel prep

Here are some options I’m not so sure about:
Lariat Ultimate Package ($3355) vs. Lariat Value Package ($710) vs. Power Equipment Group (included): Any thoughts? Are you really using all the features of the Ultimate package?

Tow Technology Package ($2150) vs. Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera ($710): Any thoughts?

Rear Camera Center High ($200) vs Customer placed ($375) vs. Individual trailer ($725): Any thoughts? Seems it’d be good to have some rear facing camera, but I don’t think I need 7’ish cameras.

Heavy Service front suspension: I have no plans for a snowplow; Too rough of a ride if added?

Engine Block Heater: Anyone use this?

Splash guards/mud flaps: Really, I have to pay extra for this?

Wheel Well Liner – Front: Same as above – I have to pay for this?

Upfitter Switches: Kinda cool, but not sure what I’d use these for.

Any other options that I’m missing?

fwiw.... I chose about all the options I could and am glad I did.
> I balked at the Adaptive Cruise Control and it is one of the things I like the best. I'm using 2 of the up fitter switches (air bag compressor and transfer pump for aux fuel tank).
> I passed on the mud flaps and wheel well liners. Then ended up installing the rear liners myself and mud flaps . I didn't save much and the next time I would just get them from the factory. The rear liners were more of a vanity thing - I didn't want to see the color of my truck in the rear wheel well. I do not have front wheel-well liners.
> No need for me for a front heavy duty suspension; I have no plans for a plow. Ditto for block heater. (it's nice living in Florida)
> FX4 Package: got it for the hill descent and better shock absorbers (altho not sure I will use hill descent now that I see what it is for). But I do like the peace of mind having skid plates.
> Ultimate package: I figured I'd be driving the truck a lot on trips (and around town to a lessor degree) so I got all the comfort features I liked. And I have no regrets and there isn't a feature there I haven't used (and might miss if I didn't have many of them).
> Tow Technology Pks: I love every feature; especially the auto wipers, lane-keeping, and auto high beams. The truck practically drives itself.

Of course, all this comes at a price. Have fun picking out the features & enjoy the new truck.

 

[Jerryr]

Adaptive cruise is a must

 

[FT4NOW]

Not sure the difference on the lariat packages, it's a big price difference, is it worth it to you for what you get?

I have a tailgate only camera and would like one for the bed, but the 7 camera option seems unnecessary to me.

I have the package with remote start and appreciate it in the winter.

For mud flaps, I went with the weather tech no drill mud flaps, I have them in the rear only for now, so far so good.

I have the heavy duty front suspension package, ride seems good for a 1 ton truck.

I have upfitter switches and currently have a switch for two 8 inch led bars under the rear bumper that I didn't want controlled by placing truck in reverse.

Last thought is gears, I have 3.73 and would go with that or the 4.30. I've had 3.31 and there is no acceleration so I'm not sure how 3.55 is, you should test drive different geared trucks and make your own choice. In the Ford towing guide 3.55 will give you a lower towing rating compared to the 3.73 or 4.30.

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

 

[Steve7]

I have a 2017 of the truck your looking at. Two trucks ago I had an F150 with all the gadgets, traded to a 2016 F250, and didn’t realize how much I would miss the tech items. 2017 they integrated the gadgets into the Superdutys. I really like the heated steering wheel, the front camera for pulling up close in parking lots, auto high beams, heated front and rear seats, ac in front seats, and more I’m not thinking about. I believe I have the 3.55 gears, and will say that the truck has tons of acceleration. I does hesitate from a standstill for a split second though. It is a very comfortable truck to drive. I average around 16 mpg when not towing, and 11 when towing.

For some reason they changed the under frame fuel filter from a normal round filter to a large rectangular filter. I haven’t changed it yet, but it looks somewhat difficult to do without spilling lots of fuel. I watched a guy on YouTube pull one off and he got diesel all over him. The truck was even on a lift. If anyone knows an easy way to change this filter (besides bringing it in to a shop), I would be interested in hearing it.

Good luck with your purchase, I think you will like the truck.

 

[howson]

Hi all – I’m getting closer to a new truck and seeking opinions on some of the options that are available. Were these worth it to you? Or did you wish you had any? Thanks!

Basic truck that I’m planning to go with: F-350, Lariat, Crew Cab, 8’ bed, Diesel, 4x4, DRW, 3.55 gearing
With at least these options: FX4 off-road package, Spray-in bedliner, 5th wheel prep

Here are some options I’m not so sure about:
Lariat Ultimate Package ($3355) vs. Lariat Value Package ($710) vs. Power Equipment Group (included): Any thoughts? Are you really using all the features of the Ultimate package?

Tow Technology Package ($2150) vs. Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera ($710): Any thoughts?

Rear Camera Center High ($200) vs Customer placed ($375) vs. Individual trailer ($725): Any thoughts? Seems it’d be good to have some rear facing camera, but I don’t think I need 7’ish cameras.

Heavy Service front suspension: I have no plans for a snowplow; Too rough of a ride if added?

Engine Block Heater: Anyone use this?

Splash guards/mud flaps: Really, I have to pay extra for this?

Wheel Well Liner – Front: Same as above – I have to pay for this?

Upfitter Switches: Kinda cool, but not sure what I’d use these for.

Any other options that I’m missing?

I ended up buying a Platinum if that tells you anything.

As previously mentioned in this thread, Adaptive Cruise is a must. The adaptive steering? Hard to tell when it is working which I guess is a good thing.

The Ultimate Tow Camera is misnamed--it's the Ultimate Parking Camera System. Over ~5 mph and Ford locks it out on you. I bought an aftermarket harness that allows me to use the cameras while driving, but the gadget is expensive and isn't perfect. The benefit of the stock 7-Camera "tow system" is the overhead God's eye view when parking. Makes it so much easier to park the big beast. The camera in the grill is fantastic, too, as I can park my truck within inches of an obstacle with no worries. Test drive one with the system and check it out. Also note that if you want to add Ford's integrated trailer TPMS and trailer camera (an aftermarket accessory) the truck must have the Ultimate Tow Camera system. (A fellow forum member found that out the hard way.)

Heated steering wheel--even in Florida I've used it a few mornings. Ditto for the heated seats.

The integrated tail gate step is an absolute must-have.

Upfitter switches? Unlikely you'll find one on the lot without them once you narrow the choices based on "must haves". Note that they can not be added to the truck afterwards.

BLIS? I have it but it is not well executed in the Ford in my opinion. That little orange light in the side mirror doesn't attract my attention. Well positioned mirrors (that are used!) have worked for me.

If I remember correctly the Lariat is the first level with dual temperature controls. That was also a must on our list.

The FX4 option was on every single truck I looked at on the internet that had adaptive cruise.

You didn't say what you'll be pulling, but I find the 3.55 gears sufficient for my needs. Again, every single truck had those gears.

The only option I'd skip if I could is the dual moon roof. But to order the equivalent of a Platinum with the Platinum Ultimate Package minus the moon roof was going to be more than buying a fully-loaded one from the dealer.

I opted to stay away from the heavy front suspension, but as others have noted you'll be shocked when you weigh your rig. It will be within a few hundred pounds of the front axle's ratings with the diesel engine. Hasn't been a factor for me because when I put my Goldwing in the bed and hook up the 315RLTS I'm struggling to get weight moved to the front axle! Heavy duty suspension in the front will result in a subjectively "rougher" ride unloaded.

For me it came down to a heavily-optioned King Ranch or the Platinum. They were practically identical. I went with the Platinum due to the optional Brunello (a very dark red) interior. As a personal choice I preferred it over the black or light tan interiors.

One more thought--the wheel options and what comes standard (based on the model and trim) was confusing until I really dug into the details. I really liked the wheels that came on my F-250 Platinum. (Yes, I bought two trucks. Long story. I now have the F-350 DRW you see below.)

 

[Txfivver]

I'd go for all the toys but that's just me. I tried to save a little money on my '17 F250 Lariat and went the value pkg. It was a nicely equipped truck with heated/cooled seats and nav and all but I absolutely hated the pitiful halogen headlights and not having the heated wheel and a few other things. I went with the Platinum Ultimate package this time and it pretty much has everything Ford has available on it. Trust me the LED headlights and tail lights are worth the upgrade, night and day difference pardon the pun! I plan on this being my last truck and will retire with it, I never wanted to regret not having some feature that might be useful.

 

[ncitro]

I also went Platinum, adaptive cruise and the LED package were must for me. I could build a lariat with everything I wanted, but could never find one on a lot within 200 miles that was loaded the way I wanted. The Platinum Ultimate included everything I needed, so that's the way I went. Absolutely love mine.

 

[backtrack2015]

I have the halogen headlights and I agree they are pretty pitiful (although I think they look nice). Full suite of cameras is worth the money. Blind-spot monitor indicator is hard to see. Lane departure warning feels cheap to me (and picks up alternate "lines") so I turned it off. Factory spray-in liner is nice (and relatively light) but adds to the build time (offsite vendor). Definitely get the 5600# or higher front axle if you're getting a CCSB diesel to tow a fifth-wheel (you can always swap down to 5200# springs). The 5200# axle isn't an issue for travel-trailers as you can "reload" the front axle via the equalizers to taste. Frame-mounted fuel filter change is really easy... just need to drain it first as per the instructions (I've changed mine without issue).

 

[orbsah]

Worked w/ my dealer yesterday and I'm expecting a quote Monday and likely will put a deposit down. Below is what I'm ordering (to pull a Solitude). Any misses or suggestions before I sign? Thanks!

F-350/Lariat/CC/8'box/Diesel/DRW
4x4/FX4/3.55 limited slip
Lariat Ultimate pkg
Tow Tech Pkg
Spray in bedliner
5th wheel prep pkg
Moonroof
Block heater
BLIS
Adaptive cruise
Rapid cap heater
Vehicle safe
Upfitter switches
White w/ black interior

 

[SouthTX]

Worked w/ my dealer yesterday and I'm expecting a quote Monday and likely will put a deposit down. Below is what I'm ordering (to pull a Solitude). Any misses or suggestions before I sign? Thanks!

F-350/Lariat/CC/8'box/Diesel/DRW
4x4/FX4/3.55 limited slip
Lariat Ultimate pkg
Tow Tech Pkg
Spray in bedliner
5th wheel prep pkg
Moonroof
Block heater
BLIS
Adaptive cruise
Rapid cap heater
Vehicle safe
Upfitter switches
White w/ black interior

I have a 2017 with almost the same specs and I love it. In 2017, the moonroof was part of the ultimate package, but I would pass on it if it was an option. It adds considerable weight, is subject to leaks and I rarely use it.

Not sure what is in the tow tech package, now, but I don't think some of the features work with fivers.

Hope you enjoy the truck as much as I have. Rides like a dream and has all the power you could ever want. Really a treat to drive (and it should be for the price).

 

[orbsah]

Here's the description of the Tow Tech: "Make the task of towing easier with adaptive steering, automatic high beams with rain-sensing windshield wipers, lane-keeping alert, and Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System (includes 360-degree camera plus center high-mount stop lamp camera)." Basically 7 cameras (although I realize I probably won't use all of them).

We were back/forth on the moonroof - thanks for the comments; Wonder what others think. . . .?

 

[orbsah]

We were also back/forth on the vehicle console safe. We don't carry guns. Maybe use for other valuables - then again, if someone breaks into the cab, we've already got problems. . . .

 

[FT4NOW]

Here's the description of the Tow Tech: "Make the task of towing easier with adaptive steering, automatic high beams with rain-sensing windshield wipers, lane-keeping alert, and Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System (includes 360-degree camera plus center high-mount stop lamp camera)." Basically 7 cameras (although I realize I probably won't use all of them).

We were back/forth on the moonroof - thanks for the comments; Wonder what others think. . . .?

I'd skip the moon roof option too. I've never used mine in the 2.5yrs I've owned the truck. The moonroof drains did get clogged and caused a leak in the truck; fixed under warranty.

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[BigDaveZJ]

I ordered a 2018 F350 a year ago because I couldn't find what I wanted on dealer lots anywhere. There were quite a few features I wanted, and some I simply wasn't willing to pay for, like heated rear seats. No kids, 2 dogs. They don't need heated seats.

I got the Lariat Ultimate, Tow Tech, FX4, Camper, Spray in bedliner, 5th/Goose Prep, BLIS, LED headlights, LED clearance lights, Power Running Boards without the sun/moon roof.

I haven't towed my 5er with it yet, but have spent a couple thousand miles towing a 10k gooseneck through CO and have 13k total on the truck. Previous to this truck I had an 01 7.3 for 10+ years, and my daily driver going into this truck was an Infiniti Q50. The new truck is really a hybrid of the two. All the tech and comfort of the Infiniti, and incredible towing ability. I could've added the adaptive cruise, and probably should have, but I've lived for almost 40 years without it.

Towing with these trucks is a freaking dream. The exhaust brake makes descents super easy, I don't have to use my brakes at all to maintain speed on WB I-70 going down Eisenhower and Vail. The camera system makes it easy to hook up trailers and to park. I DD my current truck quite a bit so being able to park it is huge. It's crazy comfortable, even empty. Gobs of power.

The LED lights are a must IMO. I'm in the process of fitting the rest of my vehicles with them as well, and will likely even add an LED light bar to my truck on an upfitter as I will be driving a lot of backcountry dirt roads at night.

Mine's Magnetic with Black Leather Interior, and the ventilated seats are nice too on hot days.

The ONLY beef I really have with my truck is that the trailer backup assist thing only applies to bumper pulls, but that's on me for not reading enough of the fine print.

I skipped the console vault too, just takes up too much room.

 

[315RLTSinPA]

I have the moon roof. Hard to say if I would get one again. I do enjoy it when I use it, but I usually only use it spring and fall. To hot in summer to have it open and to cold in winter.

 

[CoChris-MGRV]

Worked w/ my dealer yesterday and I'm expecting a quote Monday and likely will put a deposit down. Below is what I'm ordering (to pull a Solitude). Any misses or suggestions before I sign? Thanks!

F-350/Lariat/CC/8'box/Diesel/DRW
4x4/FX4/3.55 limited slip
Lariat Ultimate pkg
Tow Tech Pkg
Spray in bedliner
5th wheel prep pkg
Moonroof
Block heater
BLIS
Adaptive cruise
Rapid cap heater
Vehicle safe
Upfitter switches
White w/ black interior

This is just my opinion, I ordered my 2017 to get just what I wanted.
- I skipped the moon roof for the reasons listed (leaks, cost, did not think I would use it much, and a little bit of weight - I think it adds 75#)
- I have the factory spray in bed liner. I like a bed liner, but I was surprised how slick "slippery" it is . Things slide around. If I were to do it again, I would go with a less slippery after market spray in liner for about the same price.
- I have the BLIS/cross traffic. The cross traffic is nice backing out of a parking spot, but that is it. The BLIS does not work with 5th wheels. I lie and configure my Solitude as a TT and it sort of works, but only if a vehicle is right on my rear bumper. No warning if a car is beside the trailers. Even without the trailer, the BLIS gives no warning of a car coming up behind you, only once it is beside you. On the plus side, the mirrors are GREAT and I do not use the BLIS at all. I would not sped the money on it again. Note: My wife's 2017 Fusion has a different version of BLIS and it works great, just not the version in the Super Duty.

- Absolutely get the "ultimate trailer tow camera system" package, whether in the Tow tech package or stand alone. The 360 aerial view and other cameras (front and rear) are fantastic for parking and maneuvering in tight quarters. Note: In spite of the name, this has NOTHING to do with the trailer.

Chris

 

[Jerryr]

Another option on worth what you paid for it

I bought a 2017 F350 off the lot. 2 years later I traded it in on an ordered F350 after learning what I missed and what I didn’t need. Mind you this is a SRW not a DRW.

My 17 had HD front springs and 3.55 elocker. I ordered my 19 with standard springs and 3.31 elocker. The 19 rides better and doesn’t have the wandering that my 17 had.

I don’t ever want another sunroof. Rarely used them when I had them and I sucked when I left it open overnight when it rained hard all night. It ruined the leather and carpets on my Expedition. It was an expensive insurance claim.

BLIS In the Superduty is primative. It only flashes a light in the side view mirrors and no audible alert like my Nissan and Lexus does.

Bedliner- im a big fan of Bedrug Bedliner. Not sure if I had a typical 5th wheel hitch how it would work but it works fine with my Andersen 5th wheel hitch. I just needed to cut a flap out for the gooseball. In fact I removed my Bedrug from my 17 and installed it in my 2019.

Lariat Ultimate is a must.

Had Extended Running boards on my 17, ordered Power running boards on the 19 and love them.

Adaptive Cruise is a stand alone option on the Lariat SRW even with Ultimate pkg. it’s worth it. I don’t believe it’s part of any package on the DRW. Check to see

Lastly, LED lighting is a big improvement over the standard headlights and taillights.