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Old 11-19-2021, 04:46 AM   #29
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You might want to investigate that block heater thing. On GMs the cord is actually thermostat controlled (integrated in the cable) and won't operate above -19C or so. I think many brands use this type cable nowadays.

If you're using an aftermarket oil pan warmer mat my comment doesn't apply.
I'm ignorant about a great many things (just ask those near me) but I've not heard about the cable being thermostatically controlled. Are you scre about the temp not coming on until -19 C? That is -2.2 F. I would like to believe that my block heater works at a somewhat higher temp than that. If I'm incorrect, then I learned something

That being said, I just installed a 50 amp plug for the camper when at the house which I've gotten adapters to downsize it for the 20 amp plug in for the engine block when the camper isn't there. I plan on using a kill a watt meter on it this weekend. It is calling for our temps to go down to the mid 20s.
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Old 11-19-2021, 09:00 AM   #30
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Quote:
Originally Posted by kdauto View Post
You might want to investigate that block heater thing. On GMs the cord is actually thermostat controlled (integrated in the cable) and won't operate above -19C or so. I think many brands use this type cable nowadays.

If you're using an aftermarket oil pan warmer mat my comment doesn't apply.
thanks for the info; it is the factory one but it does work at any temp - if I forget to plug it in, I have to wait twice as long for the truck to warm up.

Dave
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Old 11-19-2021, 10:49 AM   #31
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Originally Posted by 4everlooking View Post
I'm ignorant about a great many things (just ask those near me) but I've not heard about the cable being thermostatically controlled. Are you scre about the temp not coming on until -19 C? That is -2.2 F. I would like to believe that my block heater works at a somewhat higher temp than that. If I'm incorrect, then I learned something

That being said, I just installed a 50 amp plug for the camper when at the house which I've gotten adapters to downsize it for the 20 amp plug in for the engine block when the camper isn't there. I plan on using a kill a watt meter on it this weekend. It is calling for our temps to go down to the mid 20s.
I was off by 1 degree. Click image for larger version

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Old 11-19-2021, 10:55 AM   #32
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thanks for the info; it is the factory one but it does work at any temp - if I forget to plug it in, I have to wait twice as long for the truck to warm up.

Dave
If you're talking about the 2003 Dodge in your sig, yeah, it's probably a very basic cord. Look above and see a GM thermostatically controlled cord. The newer GM diesels with the connection port in the front valence panel also are t-stat controlled. Using a regular cord or bypassing the t-stat will eventually turn on the CEL.

I am not sure about other brands, but logic tells me they are or will be doing the same soon. This has been out there for at least 12-13 years on GM.
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Old 11-19-2021, 11:17 AM   #33
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Originally Posted by kdauto View Post
If you're talking about the 2003 Dodge in your sig, yeah, it's probably a very basic cord. Look above and see a GM thermostatically controlled cord. The newer GM diesels with the connection port in the front valence panel also are t-stat controlled. Using a regular cord or bypassing the t-stat will eventually turn on the CEL.

I am not sure about other brands, but logic tells me they are or will be doing the same soon. This has been out there for at least 12-13 years on GM.
Yep; my 2003, 2004, 2006 and 2008.

Cheers,
Dave
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Old 11-19-2021, 01:20 PM   #34
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The last truck I ordered is still waiting to be assigned a build date. It's been on order about 6 months. I think you should get your truck ordered now and not expect it anytime real soon. My preference is a diesel SRW short box F350.
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Old 11-19-2021, 02:14 PM   #35
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I was off by 1 degree. Attachment 349335

Attachment 349336
Thanks for helping me grow in knowledge.. I'll have to track down the one in my Ram. If it doesn't kick in till -18C no reason to plug it in till nearing there. With the Ram, the cord is short, barely reaches the top of the radiator. Wish it would at least be able to connect out the front without having to lift the hood.
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Old 11-19-2021, 04:47 PM   #36
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Hey guys, if I upgrade the tank to 50ish gallons later, will the skid plate be in the way?

Working on a build sheet now.
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Old 11-19-2021, 06:15 PM   #37
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Hey guys, if I upgrade the tank to 50ish gallons later, will the skid plate be in the way?

Working on a build sheet now.
Personally I would build it the way you want it in the end. Always going to be more $$$$ and hassle to upgrade something later than just having it come that way from the factory.
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Old 11-20-2021, 05:14 AM   #38
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Hey guys, if I upgrade the tank to 50ish gallons later, will the skid plate be in the way?

Working on a build sheet now.
If you are after a larger tank you might want to consider a long box. Not sure about Ram but a long box Ford gains you a few gallons of fuel and a bit higher gvwr …. GVWR isn’t necessarily a big deal as the rear axle rating remains the same regardless of box length and many people ignore the gvwr and load to the rear axle rating.
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Old 11-20-2021, 09:29 AM   #39
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I think you get a 36 gallon fuel tank with the short box but you get a 50 gallon fuel tank with the long box. You also get a higher GVWR and slightly higher capacity tires with the long box.
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Old 11-20-2021, 10:10 AM   #40
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Would you please check over this build. This is my first Super Duty! My next camper may be a 5th wheel at around 12,000-13,000 pounds. Currently looking a the Cougar half ton 5ers.

Build:
F350 Platinum
6.7L Power Stroke
3.55 Electronic Locking Axle
4x4
Star White
5th wheel prep package
Adaptive Steering
Rapid Heat Supplemental
Upfitter Switches
Engine block heater
Skid plates (not the FX4)
Splash Guards front and back
Hood Deflector
All weather floor mats
Tonneau Pickup Box Cover - Retractable (what do you guys think of this one?)
Wheel locks
Spray in Bedliner
Wheel Well Liner front and back

My biggest question is on the Tonneau Retractable Box cover. I want something that is close to waterproof and locks. Will be storing camping stuff while traveling (have travel trailer now, 5er may be in about 3 years)

Thanks for the feedback.
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Old 11-20-2021, 10:43 AM   #41
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My biggest question is on the Tonneau Retractable Box cover. I want something that is close to waterproof and locks. Will be storing camping stuff while traveling (have travel trailer now, 5er may be in about 3 years)
Image on Ford's website looks similar to the RETRAXPRO XR. Good option for sure. Absolutely love my RETRAXPRO MX. Highly recommend. Definitely mostly waterproof and secure.

Much of the rest of your build is all personal preference of course.

Personally, I'd go with the 4:10 limited slip for added torque multiplication off the line. Mileage shouldn't suffer much I wouldn't think, given that it has a 10 spd trans.

I'd also opt for the A/T tires. Have them on my build and they are Michelins LTX A/T 2. Not sure if Ford outfits the same. Anyway, they offer added traction and still a quiet ride. Great tire. My next set will be the same.

And I'd also forego the skid plates. Unless you are intent on off-roading or BLM camping in the boonies, they are only an added obstacle for performing drivetrain maintenance IMHO.
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Old 11-20-2021, 11:11 AM   #42
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The bed cover is good.

Humm - with the 10 speed I think 3:55 gears are good.

I might add clearance lights but that is just my personal taste.
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