Since approximately 75% of all Ford F-Series Super Duties sold are diesel-powered, the new diesel emissions standards for 2007 meant the heavy-duty pickup was in for major changes. However, the new truck — designated a 2008 model — is a full redesign that not only includes a completely new diesel, but also a new interior, new sheet metal, and new drivetrain and utility features for commercial truck users.
So even though the Super Duty line saw a significant “refreshening” in 2005, the new diesel requirements provided an opportunity Ford couldn't pass up to rethink it's key offering in the so-called heavy-duty pickup market. The result is a lineup that includes three cab configurations, 12 wheelbases, two gasoline engines in addition to the new diesel, manual and automatic transmission options, and even a new Class 4 F-450 Super Duty pickup.
As it has in the past, International provides the new 6.4L PowerStroke V8, which features dual sequential turbochargers for good low-end torque, a common rail fuel injection system with piezo-electric injectors for precise fuel control, cooled EGR to bring NOX emissions within Federal limits, and a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet particulate requirements. Power is up to 350 hp. for the new engine from 325 hp. for the 6.0L diesel it replaces, while peak torque has climbed to 650 lb.-ft. from 570 lb.-ft.
The published price increase for the cleaner diesel design is $1,595 over the 6.0L engine, says Joe Castelli, director of Ford commercial truck marketing.
Gasoline offerings for the 2008 Super Duty are the 5.4L Triton V8 and 6.8L Triton V10. Transmission choices are a new 6-sp. manual or redesigned Torqshift 5-sp. automatic. GVW ratings start at 8,800 lb. and go up to 14,500 lb. for the new F-450 Super Duty, which has a payload capacity of over 6,000 lb. and can tow up to 24,500 lb. with a fifth wheel.
For more details, see FO November 2006, pg. 36. www.ford.com
