[A/S] Re: F-350 PSD

[Matt Worner <wornmatt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Orin,

Firstly I find the PSD an awesome tow pony.  The only reason that I went
for the F-350 was the insignificant price difference ($189.00 sticker)
between the 250 and the 350.  The tow ratings are the same for tag along
rigs (10k pounds).  It seems that with the front end sturdy enough to
carry the extra weight of the Powersmoke (I've heard the difference is
about 800 pounds) you're already paying for most of a 350 anyway.

I test drove a dually, but couldn't get immediately comfortable with the
extra width.  I've seen too many splintered rear fenders (they are
fiberglass) on duallys to think I'm unique in this respect.  The dual
wheels will give you extra capacity on bed load, of course but unless
you travel with your gold bullion collection, or a fifth wheel rig the
added expense won't make you any money.

My trailer has a gross rating of 7100#.  The truck with full fuel (29
gal) and 2 pax tips the scale at 7740#.  With that weight ratio, and the
crew cab wheelbase I doubt that the extra length will affect tow quality
all that much.  Certainly no disadvantage that the Hensley won't
overcome.  The biggest advantage of the longer bed (aside from the
storage space) is a larger fuel capacity.  I think the 8 footer carries
34 or 36 gallons.  Of course with diesel running about $1.65/gallon
that's somewhat of a mixed blessing at best.  I'm getting about 14+ mpg
running back and forth to work (18 miles half hiway/half local) about 12
towing.  Highway towing, where she stays in overdrive I have gotten 18+
mpg.  I usually start looking for fuel (and a rest room) at about 250
miles so the leg length works for me.

Matt

PS: For a look at what happens when you grab the gas nozzle by mistake,
see the file "Rally Ender" on the Airsream List.  Not all gas nozzles
have vapor recovery boots!  Not all bare nozzles are diesel.  Some green
handles are greener than others.  Thank God that He looks out for idiots
and children (of all ages)!