2003 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty

Ford has also introduced the new TorqShift five-speed automatic transmission as a companion to the new diesel engine, addressing one of our complaints against the current Super Duty—a poor-shifting four-speed automatic transmission. The new unit features improved internal components, an upgraded torque converter, integrated power-take-off, external fluid filter and cooler, and a tow-haul mode that senses when a lower gear is needed for climbing or descending a steep grade. Besides shifting smoothly, the TorqShift transmission has a noticeably improved gear spread which keeps the engine in the proper torque range during up shifts.


In addition to the new diesel engine, there are two other engine choices for the Super Duty. The standard powerplant is the venerable 5.4-liter SOHC V-8, rated at 260 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. During 2002, the 5.4 was named one of Ward's Auto World magazine's "Ten Best Engines" for the sixth consecutive year. The next step up is the 6.8-liter SOHC V-10, which produces a healthy 310-horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. All F-250 and F-350 trucks have six-speed manual transmissions as standard.

Premium leather upholstery is available in 2003 with the King Ranch Package on F-250 and F-350 Lariat Crew Cabs.

For 2003, there are no major body or trim-level changes for the Super Duty pickups. All F-250 and F-350 trucks continue in Regular Cab, SuperCab and Crew Cab configurations in XL, XLT and Lariat trims. There are, however, several minor modifications and additions to the Super Duty lineup. These include a new optional FX4 off-road package with equipment such as skid plates, Rancho shock absorbers, and a steering damper. In addition, a grouping that's already popular on the F-150, the King Ranch Package, will be offered on F-250 and F-350 Lariat Crew Cabs in single- and dual-rear-wheel applications for 2003. This includes premium leather interior trim, body-color mirror housings and door handles, lighted running boards, premium aluminum wheels and a choice of three exterior colors: Estate Green, Chestnut and Oxford White.


Additional minor upgrades include a standard tailgate lock on XL models, optional heated telescoping trailer tow mirrors with integrated turn signal, optional power sliding moonroof on Crew Cabs, available reverse proximity sensor system on XLTs and the ability to combine the Snowplow Package with the Camper Package on all models.


Besides being the pickup truck sales leader, the F-Series continues to extend its reputation as a rugged, practical and capable vehicle whether it's used for personal or business use. Not content to rest on the success of the current truck, Ford will introduce a new F-Series next year as a 2004 model. However, when compared to Dodge's new-for-2003 Ram Heavy Duty and GM's two-year old Silverado HD and Sierra HD pickups, the current F-250 and F-350 Super Duty trucks have held up well to the test of time. (www.fordvehicles.com)