Alright, first post but been lurking for awhile. It's about time to let go of my expy at 160Kmiles, and i'm looking at 150's. I'm definately going to lift it, but i can't decide between two things. First off, I love the center console and shifter in the FX4's. the thing is, FX's tend to run a little more than XLT's, and since i'll be lifting it anyways and getting rid of the stock suspension, wouldn't it make more sense to look for an XLT? the one caveat is the center console. is it available with the XLT's? if not, what does it take on average to do the swap? and if i do the swap, does the stock shifter stay on the steering column, or can the pistol grip shifter mod be done as well? of course, cost vs. outcome will dictate whether or not i do this, so if it's gonna cost $500, well forget it. any thought?

 

one more thing. the setup i'm currently considering once i get the truck is the 6" Fabtech, 3" body and 37/13.50 Mud grapplers with Mazzu hulks (i know, i know) where are some reputable dealers you use with good prices?

i was considering the Rize 8", but for street duty and a little sand every now and then, i think the Susp/Body lift will suffice at a lower cost. thanks!

 

If you want the center console with the shift, just buy a FX4. The swap is feasable, but not something I would want to do to a brand new truck.

Here are some threads from people who've installed the flow-thru console:

https://www.f150online.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=216615
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=218003
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=219437
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=219283
https://www.f150online.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=217537

 

just get a lariat... then you get more options standard that works out to being cheaper than getting the same options on a XLT.. Then you get the center console plus some other nice things.

 

I say go with the FX4 and go from there with your mods.