Own a 2018 XLT, Have 2019 Limited Rental for the Week - Observations and Questions

[Deadman]

Because I don't tow anything, all models come with a trans-cooler (whether you got the tow pack or not), and the standard radiator is absolutely sufficient for my use. Why would I spend the extra cash for something I don't need?

Because of the 3.73's. Unless its a highway rig, a 3.31 is not a gear for a vehicle of this size! If I could only get a 3.31, I wouldn't have bought the vehicle period. I looked away from the Yukons because 3.42 was their highest numerical gear and I always said 3.42 was a highway gear, not a truck gear! Again, just my opinion......

 

[shane_th_ee]

On this new stuff, I'm sure it would be expensive to do it right to get the 3.73's. The tow pack gave bigger radiator, trans coolers, and whatever else, I couldn't understand why anyone bought a Non-tow-pack unit. It just made perfect sense to me.

I agree, but for the first 6+ months of production the 3.73 was not produced in enough numbers to meet demand. So they were really hard to find. You could order one, like we did, but instead of the quoted 6-8 weeks, it took 15-18 weeks. There's a couple of older threads bemoaning the build time for orders that included the 22" wheels and/or the 3.73.

 

[Deadman]

I completely agree, because when I searched for hold over 2018's recently there was very very few with the tow package. I nearly gave up and said forget it. I wasn't paying full coin for a 2019 as they chopped almost $20K off the hold over 18's!
I finally found one out of state that was a 302A tow pack in white!

 

[Tom T]

Being a 2 channel audiophile, I totally understand. My source is Tidal HiFi and Spotify premium over Bluetooth, which is inherently lossy. So not the best source.

Try Qobuz Premium up to 24/192

 

[cmiles97]

Interesting article on gear ratios. This does sound like why the rental was more spirited:

The "drive cycle," which is how fast and where you drive, is also an important consideration when selecting the right axle ratio, according to truckmaker Ram. For lower speeds and rural driving, a higher gear set will add capability and a more spirited driving experience without too much damage to the final mpg number, according to Ram. But if you do a lot of high-speed driving, you might want to consider a vehicle with a numerically lower gear set to decrease engine rpm and improve fuel economy.

https://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/how-to-choose-the-right-axle-ratio-for-your-pickup-truck.html

 

[Deadman]

Thats exactly correct! ^^^

 

[cmiles97]

Honestly I never paid attention to the gear ratio when I purchased the Expy. I just lucked into the ratio I would have chosen (3.73). It will be a consideration for truck/Suv purchases in the future.

 

[MATT0404]

Ok, so I think much of my initial findings were not completely founded.

• The power difference, which is very likely attributable to the gearing, was a nice change.
• The transmission did seem smoother and less clunky. Again, could be attributable to gears and/or perhaps software revisions with new model year
• Interior noise difference - unfounded. I have to remember that I have two small children and two car seats in my car. Their car seats usually have toys and other noisy objects in them that rattle around and create noise, even when the kids aren't in the vehicle. I also have a hatch creak/rattle that the dealer has been unable to resolve as of yet. The rental limited only had my luggage in it and nothing else, so it was much quieter.

So that's it. Chalking this one up to jumping to unfounded conclusions. I'm back to enjoying my XLT and looking forward to installing my ReadyLift this weekend!

 

[Adieu]

Ok, so I think much of my initial findings were not completely founded.

• The power difference, which is very likely attributable to the gearing, was a nice change.
• The transmission did seem smoother and less clunky. Again, could be attributable to gears and/or perhaps software revisions with new model year
• Interior noise difference - unfounded. I have to remember that I have two small children and two car seats in my car. Their car seats usually have toys and other noisy objects in them that rattle around and create noise, even when the kids aren't in the vehicle. I also have a hatch creak/rattle that the dealer has been unable to resolve as of yet. The rental limited only had my luggage in it and nothing else, so it was much quieter.

So that's it. Chalking this one up to jumping to unfounded conclusions. I'm back to enjoying my XLT and looking forward to installing my ReadyLift this weekend!

I'd be inclined to blame the huge and heavy BFG KO2's

 

[Deadman]

My kids car seats rattle like crazy, I hate hearing that noise in this brand new vehicle. It sounds like a beater because they rate when they are empty.

 

[MATT0404]

I'd be inclined to blame the huge and heavy BFG KO2's

Those were just put on last weekend right before I left in the rental Limited. I didn't have time to change my point of reference due to bigger tires. They definitely ride a bit firmer, but not terribly different.

 

[MATT0404]

My kids car seats rattle like crazy, I hate hearing that noise in this brand new vehicle. It sounds like a beater because they rate when they are empty.

Same here! Drives me crazy!

 

[Deadman]

I installed them and then took my mom for a ride in the new vehicle and she immediately asked what was rattling so much. ughhhh. lol

 

[shane_th_ee]

I also have a hatch creak/rattle that the dealer has been unable to resolve as of yet.

Have you checked the license plate? Our minivan dealer only used two screws at the top to install the license plate. So the bottom rattled against the rear hatch and drove me crazy until I finally figured out what was happening and added two screws on the bottom.

 

[shane_th_ee]

And I find the noise of the carseats pales in comparison to the noise of the children using them...

 

[MATT0404]

Have you checked the license plate? Our minivan dealer only used two screws at the top to install the license plate. So the bottom rattled against the rear hatch and drove me crazy until I finally figured out what was happening and added two screws on the bottom.

I'll check the license plate but this is more of a creaking sound. Any time I accelerate from a stop, the hatch creaks. Dealer said they're going to take it into the body shop to check hatch alignment.

 

[Paddler]

I completely agree, because when I searched for hold over 2018's recently there was very very few with the tow package. I nearly gave up and said forget it. I wasn't paying full coin for a 2019 as they chopped almost $20K off the hold over 18's!
I finally found one out of state that was a 302A tow pack in white!

I tow a boat that weighs under 4000# on the trailer about 3000 miles/year. I didn't opt for the tow package because I don't need the trailer assist, as I can back up just fine. The difference between the two axle ratios is about 11%. The difference between first and second gear is 36% for the 10-speed transmission, the overall difference between first and tenth is 7.44:1. I was comfortable that the transmission would more than compensate for the relatively minor difference in rear axle ratio. The standard radiator is more than up to the demands of towing the 6000# the truck is rated for without the tow package, so I saved the $1500. And, I'm getting over 20MPG average, so I'm happy with my choice. I really don't care about spirited driving in the truck, I have another car and a few motorcycles for that.

IMO, the tow package isn't really necessary if you're not towing heavy loads routinely.

 

[doktoroktobor]

I tow a boat that weighs under 4000# on the trailer about 3000 miles/year. I didn't opt for the tow package because I don't need the trailer assist, as I can back up just fine. The difference between the two axle ratios is about 11%. The difference between first and second gear is 36% for the 10-speed transmission, the overall difference between first and tenth is 7.44:1. I was comfortable that the transmission would more than compensate for the relatively minor difference in rear axle ratio. The standard radiator is more than up to the demands of towing the 6000# the truck is rated for without the tow package, so I saved the $1500. And, I'm getting over 20MPG average, so I'm happy with my choice. I really don't care about spirited driving in the truck, I have another car and a few motorcycles for that.

IMO, the tow package isn't really necessary if you're not towing heavy loads routinely.

Not disagreeing, but doesn't the tow package add drive modes, 4H/4L, and the brake controller? Going off memory here, so I could be mistaken.

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[JExpedition07]

Not disagreeing, but doesn't the tow package add drive modes, 4H/4L, and the brake controller? Going off memory here, so I could be mistaken.

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No 4L is a deal breaker for sure, I believe you are correct. You can however get the FX4 package on an XLT if you want real 2 speed 4x4 without HD tow if I’m not mistaken.

 

[Paddler]

Not disagreeing, but doesn't the tow package add drive modes, 4H/4L, and the brake controller? Going off memory here, so I could be mistaken.

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Drive modes are standard. I don't need 4H/4L, as the Max isn't really a rock crawler with its long wheel base. Seems to me that AWD is at least as good as 4H/4L in most situations, anyway. Being able to direct torque to wheels with grip instantly is more responsive than locked differentials. I use AWD in snow, and when necessary, dirt roads up in our mountains. Works great. My boat trailer has surge brakes, so no need for a brake controller. It's about choosing those options that fit your own personal needs best.