Well, Over the past 3 weeks I have read just about every article here. 2 years ago, before our daughter was born I did the same thing, to get any tips for improvments to my Ranger, Now the f-250LD. What has been common in many threads is the desire to get more power/MPG, and the dissapointment with Ford, not getting enough MPG to start with. I just wanted to add my 2 cents, that it could be worse.
My inlaws own Dodges, 4x4, 4x2, 318, 360, Ext cabs, and regulars. Think our MPG sucks, theirs is worse.
The best from any of their trucks has been 17-18MPG on a 2WD,reg cab. My best so far on my 4x4,5.4l Ext cab, f-250ld is 17.77. Now take my Brother inlaws quad cab 2500 4x4 with a 360 auto, 3.73 gears. His best 14.1MPG.(We drive almost the same style) GOD, that is pittifull. the f-250 has almost the same power output and gets better MPG by far. My avg MPG is 15.8, his 13.5.
Plus I have upgraded my Power-output by nearly 20% with mods(This past week), that totaled $400. Many of which cost 2-3 times as much on his truck if he can even get them. So the Shuvies, may get better MPG, and the Dodges get worse(For Sure), but we are in the middle(PS, I am the only Ford owner in the Family) Now granted there are exceptions, some good some bad, this is just my take.

 

Oh, and I think, Ford has put the power where I needed it in their engines, DOWN Low.