My salesman called and said the '04 he ordered has been built, he expects to have it by 14 july. I know this can change but it sounds like within a month I'll be able to see one in the flesh.
My plans are to wait for the '05, or a late '04 if the launch goes good.

 

My first truck is "bucked" and shows an ETA to dealer of 7/7/03. This isn't right, Ford will hold all the trucks until quality gives the OK to ship. The last Fordstar broadcast I saw said August. It would be great if the computer were right and trucks started rolling in next month, but I'm afraid its just like Expedition and Explorer were when they came out and all vehciles will be held at plant for an extended time.

 

I have a pretty strong feeling that they'll be doing the same thing with the 04'.

 

I wouldn't count on seeing any on dealers lots until late August at the earliest. Most likely September or October.

 

I talked with my Field Engineer about the 04's yesterday, seems that Ford has made all the Field Engineers each order and 04 to be driven for minimum of a month, while making notes of everything. I really do not expect them to hit the lots anytime before September now! One cool thing, my FE's truck will be built at the end of July, might be able to borrow it for a weekend!

 

I wasn't trying to post false info, only what I was told. Maybe its something like the F E you mentioned, because it sounds like he cant sell it, at least not right away.
I hate waiting.

 

Don't worry, it's another case of Ford leaving their dealers in the Dark, the print outs list ETA, and unless they were watching a nonrelated Fordstar broadcast the dealer has no reason not to believe it (except being lied to launch after launch). So don't blame the salesman. There's a reason Ford is ranked the lowest manufacturer by its dealers (even below Olds). The continually fail to inform, misinform and undercut the dealers.

 

I would suggest you guys wanting a new 2004 model to not buy until you see the new F-150.

This will be the vehicle of choice!!

 

If you are a supplier for Ford interior parts as you say, and Ford figures (maybe they don't care) out you are "bad-mouthing their production methods and who you are-- "cutting corners" -- you may soon be -- supplying some one else(or no one else) other than Ford.
I actually agree with you on the first year production problems.

 

Could you be more specific about which corners they are cutting? I think that ford has too much riding on the success of this truck to put out a second rate product.

 

Hi

As mentioned...getting a first production "new engine" may/maynot be a winner? Just beaware.

Will be interesting to see how this new engine is. Ford certainly did not do well w/6L PSD. Seems there was also a problem w/engines (gas) in the rangers.

I know i'd wait at least 6 mo. unless i really needed one. Needing and wanting..well thats different. Maybe Ford will get it right the first time..this time??????

Time will tell...thats for sure.

Good luck...OT

 

How can you say this is a first production engine since it's already being used(in other markets) for over a year now? I don't see them cutting any corners and that's why Ford took a beating from the press when they said it would cost more to build this 150 than the current one. This isn't a vehicle Ford is cutting any corners on. If this one fails, Ford will be in serious trouble.

 

definately. if ford goes flat on the new f150's, chapter 11 will be knocking on their door. they need a big sale with these trucks to get out of the hole.

 

No offense taken. I've read most of the information about the truck from magazine articles. I've been following this new model from way back when they were hyping the 04's. I'm even seriously considering purchasing one, but I just bought an 02 F-150 4X4 Super Cab. I have received more praises for this current vehicle than any other truck that I have owned, and I have had Chevys and Dodges.

So in my opinion I think Ford will have another winner with this one. I'm definitely an interested customer when the time comes for me to purchase a new truck.

Ford has dominated the Light Truck industry for over 26 years, so why would this new one be any different? Why would I have bought 6 Ford vehicles? So as far as bad mouthing Ford, I believe that is overstating it a little bit. My entire livelihood is based around Ford Motor Company and I believe that in me doing so would be entirely hypocritical for me to do such thing. I’m just as eager and excited as any satisfied Ford Truck owner would be about this new model and how well it will do.

But I also would like to state that we have to remember what this message forum is all about. It’s about helping each other out with our vehicles, getting information, and talking with others.

Take care!!