E-Series changes for Ford
Nov 1, 2007 12:00 PM, By Rick Weber
The 2008 E-Series utilizes an engine-only traction control (EOTC), available on all models that are not equipped with the AdvanceTrac with RSC system. The EOTC system uses the anti-lock braking system and engine torque to monitor wheel speed and vehicle speed to detect wheel spin and slip. When wheel spin or slip is detected, the electronic throttle control system reduces engine torque to the optimal level to help retain traction. With the exception of a warning light that reminds customers that conditions have become slippery, the system works in a near seamless manor.
“Engine-only traction control offers several benefits over brake-based systems,” Stevens said. “Brake-based systems often cause vehicle shudder and unexpected noise from the wheels. Brake-based systems will also reduce brake pad life as they essentially replicate power-braking maneuvers when used.”
He said the E-Series is the only vehicle in its segment to offer a standard V-8. The E-150 and E-250 cargo vans come with a 4.6-liter Triton V-8 engine and, new for the 2008 model year, the E-450 now comes standard with a 5.4L V-8.
The E-350 can opt for the 6.8L Triton V-10 delivering 305 horsepower and 420 ft-lb of torque.
Transmission choices include a four-speed automatic with overdrive mated to the 4.6L and 5.4L engines in vans and wagons. On cutaways, the 5.4L and 6.8L engines are mated to the five-speed TorqShift automatic transmission with tow/haul mode.
When properly equipped, the E-150 van can tow up to 7500 lb, the E-150 wagon up to 7100 lb, and the E-350 Super Duty and Super Duty Extended Wagon up to 10,000 lb each. An available Class II/III/IV Trailer Tow Package includes an electric brake controller with tap-in capability, a seven-pin trailer wiring harness with bumper bracket, and a relay system for backup and running lights.
A power take-off provision is optional on 6.8L cutaways and strip chassis with 158" and 176" wheelbases. It provides a removable access panel to give the PTO access to the transmission.
E-Series vans come in E-150 regular-length and E-250 and E-350 regular- and extended- length with maximum payload ratings from 3170 to 4090 lb. All E-Series vans, including the E-150, are rated as heavy-duty trucks with gross vehicle weights of over 8500 lb. The E-150 made the move to the HD class last year and increased the maximum payload by 70%.
E-Series passenger wagons come in E-150 regular- and E-350 regular- and extended-length models offering seating options for seven, eight, 12, or 15 passengers, plus a new 11-passenger optional seating configuration for the extended-length XL and XLT. Payloads range from 2525 to 2,995 lb.
E-Series cutaways are available in E-250, E-350, and E-450 Super Duty and E-350 and E-450 stripped chassis with 138", 158" and 176" wheelbases and three axle ratios (3.73, 4.10, 4.56) in both single-rear-wheel and dual-rear-wheel configurations. GVWRs range from 8600 to 14,500 lb for cutaways and 9000 to 14,500 lb for stripped chassis.
