I am seriously considering buying a 2002 F-150 4x4 but not sure of which engine to go with. Will use truck to pull a 3500lb. boat as well as a everyday driver. I was told that these engines have a piston slap problem? Someone fill me in, also give me opinions on axle, engine size etc. Help me spend my money! Thanks

 

3500 lbs. is not much but I would imagine you want a automatic. A 5.4L is without a doubt the best pulling V8. 350ft.lbs. at 2500 rpm's. You cant beat that w/ a 4.6L or a 5.3L chevy.
A 4.6L will get the job done, but wont even come close in pulling.
Full mileage wont really be much of a factor, I get 15 to 17 miles per galon w/ my 5.4L
As far as piston slap, you dont have to worry anymore. Ford has taken care of that.

For 3500lbs. the standard 3.55s will be fine, you can get the optional 3.73s but you will get the 8 lug wheeels and they dont look as good as the ones on a FX4 or Lariat.
Perfect truck = 02 FX4 extended cab w/ 5.4L Limited slip rear end.

 

For a daily driver, the power seat is money well spent.

 

You only get the 7-lug wheels w/ the 7700 lb. package.(which is worth the money if you don't want a SuperCrew), but I think you can get the 3.73s with out the 7700 lb. package. Definately get the Limited Slip rear-end though. You'll regret it if you don't.

 

Two words.........."CAPTAINS" "CHAIRS"

 

You won't have any problem pulling a 3500 lb boat. I've pulled my Malibu ski boat (3500 lbs full of gas/gear) a couple of times with my '02 Screw (5.4L, 3.55 w/LS) with no problems. Obviously accelleration isn't as brisk as when not pulling it, but once you get moving, you won't even know it's there. It will cruise comfortably 65-70 mph without breaking a sweat.

Get one, you won't regret it.