Here is probably more info than you want to know for the V10 and F53 chassis:
The "Y" in the 10th digit does tell you you've got a 310hp V10
The 10th digit is indeed the year of the chassis. An "X" indicates it is a 1999 chassis which came only with a 275hp V10. The "Y" indicates it is a 2000 chassis which came with only 310hp version of the V10.
After 2000, the 10th digit changed to numbers, a "1" indicates a 2001, a "2" indicates a 2002... I hope you can figure it out from there.
V-10 F53 production began with the 1999 model year. The reason for the change was the V-10's broader power band than the larger 460. The narrow track 460 production in 1998 was replaced by the wider track 1999 275hp V10 - V10 F53's are all wide track. For 2000, the hp was increased to 310. No major changes were made to the engine between 2000 and 2006. The last 2004 chassis was made in December 2004 (not August when the usual model change-over occurs). Production of the 3 valve 2006 362hp V10 began right after Jan 1st 2005.
The same basic chassis was made for 2000 and 2001 max gvw 20,500lbs and non self-centering wheels.
For 2002, a 6 rib serpentine belt replaced the 8 rib belt used earlier, the capacity of the front axle was increased from 7,000lbs to 7,500lbs, the max. capacity of the rear axle was increased to 14,500lbs from 13,500lbs - max increased to gvw= 22,000lbs, better self centering wheels.
A frontend track bar was added as standard equipment for 2004 along with a bigger full size frame rail, 22.5" wheels on the 22,000lb chassis, lowered the gas tank and a few other misc. changes.
The 2006 chassis introduced the 3 valve V10, the 5 speed - TorqShift transmission w/tow-haul mode and improved headers-exhaust system, lowered the engine 4 inches for a lower doghouse, redesigned the air cleaner, larger radiator, frame mounted transmission oil filter, new instrument panel with transmission temp gauge, 10 hole 19.5" wheels.
For 2007, the daylight running lights were deleted, max wheelbase stretched to 242".
For 2008, 24,000lb and 26,000lb capacities were introduced, heavier duty steel frame, 158" wheelbase for 16,000lb chassis option, external transmission filter deleted in favor of improved internal filter, 9,000lb front axle, 17,500lb rear axles available, redesigned brake system, one-touch starting system, 50 degree wheel cut for frontend.
For 2009, is an exclusive for Ford in that they are able to provide a chassis to the coach manufacturer that is 252 inches in length right from the plant. The 252 is available in 24,000 and 26,000 pound GVW ratings. The 252 chassis join the existing 228 and 242 rails which provide Ford customers with enhanced ride characteristics and improved weight distribution in longer and larger motorhomes.
The instrument cluster in 2009 has been redesigned to provide drivers with additional vehicle operating information. In addition to the existing information such as speed and rpm drivers can now monitor fuel economy, outside temperature, and system checks including brake fluid and fuel levels, engine and transmission temperatures and oil pressure.
In response to Ford customer surveys, Ford has provided the 2009 V10 with a new alternator capable of providing 175 Amps. This new alternator is designed to specifically handle the large electrical demands on modern motorhomes. The new high output alternator compliments the 78 amp. Hr, 770 CCA battery in the Ford chassis.
New for 2009 is that Ford has provided their chassis with suspension and control components directly matched to the chassis GVWR. In 2009 the 3 families are 16K to 18K, 20.5K to 22K and 24K to 26K ratings. Each family has specifically designed Bilstein shocks absorbers, spring rates, stabilizer bars and link bushings and new progressive jounce bumpers which improve steering and handling.
Ford chassis in the 22,000 to 26,000 range are now equipped with new polished aluminum wheels manufactured by SAI. The new wheels are not only attractive but are easily cleaned with soap and water.
New for 2009 are increases in axle rating on the 18,000 and 22,000 pound motorhome chassis. The rear axle on the 18K rail has been increased by 1,000 pounds from 11,000 to 12,000 pounds while the GAWR on the 22K rail has been increased from 14.5K to 15K. These new ratings allow more flexibility for the manufacturers in building their coach bodies and allows for more cargo carrying capability.
The Ford chassis is equipped with 4 wheel 4 channel ABS as well as a mechanical lock up parking brake drum. Ford offers 4 rear axle models from the 11,000 capacity rear all the way up to the best-in-class 17,500 pound rated Dana 17060S. The rear axles are what Ford calls Lubed for life. The rear tapered springs are 4 inch wide units of 64 inches in length. Premium Bilstein gas shock absorbers are provided along with tuned stabilizer bars. The Ford 24 to 26K rail also provides a 30,000 pound GCWR and provides up to a 10,000 tow rating depending on the chassis selected. Ford offers 7 wheelbase models from 158 up to the 252.
Premium Bilstein shocks absorbers are mounted to the front axle as well as variable rate jounce bumpers which improve the ride quality. The 63 long leaf springs on the front axle are rated for 7,500 and 9,000 pounds of GAWR. The steering gear is provided with a front track bar which improves the overall handling and ride comfort of the chassis. The F53 is provided with a 50 degree wheel cut and is reduced to 42 degrees on 22K chassis equipped with 22.5 inch wheels.
More information & pictures at this link where I found all this 2009 information:
http://www.irv2.com/forums/f23/2009-...le-ky-459.html
For 2010?/2011 (available begining in Feb 2010 - looks like they carried over the 2009 chassis until the end of Jan 2010 so no 2010 chassis were made):
Front GAWR increased to 8K from 7.5k lbs on 16K-22K GVWR chassis
16K/18K GVWR rear axle ratio changed to 4.88 for improved fuel economy (4.30 ratio available 4 th quarter)
18K GVWR chassis will utilize 225/70R 19.5 tires and 19.5 x 6.0 steel wheels
80 gallon fuel tank replaces the 75 gallon fuel tank
Revised shipping cover to extend cover transmission vent
Revised Accelerator pedal - Changed from 3-track to 2-track
Fuel filter integrated into fuel pump
New fuel vapor canister fuel lines revised
New fuel pump module with revised auxiliary pick-up tube outlet and new 90 degree fitting
Linear Mode
