Is there a difference in the 03 lightnings and the 01 and 02?

 

as far as specs go, i dont think so

 

Yes, the 03's have a beefier block and improved heads.

 

How about the 04 compared to the 03? Or is it the same and just a carry over?

 

yes, the 03 rims dif than the 01/02, 03's have chrome door handles, new steering wheel, 6 disc in dash changer, higher rear end, not sure of the engine stuff tho.

 

I believe 03 to 04 is just a carry over. An unnecessary one if you ask me.

 

higher payload rating

 

the most important change

 

There are quite a few differences from '01 to '03, some aesthetic and some functional. If you use the search function, you can probably find a list of the changes. I know it has been discussed before, but not sure when.

 

on my 03, ive noticed these things as compared to a 02

1.Keypad Entry on drivers side
2.The improved block and Heads
3.6CD In dash changer
4.Harley F150 style interior door handles
5.New style rims
6.I think the steering wheel is the same...
7.The driveshaft also seems different. Can anyone prove me right or wrong on that one?
8.Higher rear end
9.My overhead console has both temp and compass, not sure if other models have both or just compass
10.They're just plain better...(uh-oh, im gonna get it for that one...he he he )
11.Higher payload rating
12.Tighter steering

 

STEERING SYSTEM TIGHTER

 

you're right! I noticed a pretty large difference from driving my friends 01 and my 03. The steering is alot tighter, you have to really "drive" the truck

 

Just to let everyone know, the door handles on the 03 are NOT the same as HD's....HD's have chrome handles and the 03L has a plastic handle with a metal coating (tape)....i know b/c mines already peeling....thinking of getting some HD handles and switching them out.....

 

Definate 03 differences: (Mostly Aesthetic)


1. Steering wheel has perforated leather grip on the '03 model
2. Higher rear and and increased payload in '03
3. "Satin" looking interior door handles
4. Wheels of course are different
5. Sonic Blue and Dark Shadow Gray color options
6. Six disc in dash head unit
7. no tool box behind the seats
8. square glove box handle vs. oval shaped one
9. re-tuned steering box

Supposed Differences:

1. Thicker carpeting and mats
2. Better heads and block



The drive shaft is aluminium like the 01-02 models
The overhead console is the same from 00-03


Thats about it as far as I know, Im sure there are some small component changes of course that are not worth mentioning. Ford could probably give you a sheet listing all of them if you really care enough.

 

2002 Lightnings have the keypad on the driver's side, just like the 2003 model (at least mine does). Along with the other interior differences, the 03 has a little cubby pocket below and to the right of the steering wheel. 02's do not have that.

Matt