So which engine (HP, Torque) and Axle Ratio do I have...?

[bello]

Hi All- Recently purchased a 2023 Exp MAX Limited RWD with the base "Stealth" Package. Engine Code (8th Digit of VIN) is "8" ... Also, the Axle Code on the VIN Tag in door is "3L" I suspect I have the "middle" Engine at 400HP & 440 Torque. As for the rear axle, I've not found what ratio Axle 3L is, or/if it has LSD... Anyone out there with real info on this..? Last, what say you all on Gasoline for this: Regular or premium? I tow a Vintage racecar in an enclosed (6000#) 20' trailer 5-6 times a year. SE Florida, no hills or mountains here unless you count overpasses. Thanks! Ernie

 

[byathread]

Believe you have the middle spec. 440HP/480lb-ft. 3L comes up as a 3.73 LSD... Your window sticker would show if you have the 3.73 ELSD, but, you'd also have the elocker button right below your shifter. I always run Premium (93 on the east coast/91 is highest you can get a lot of places further west). Reason being is peak power output and efficiency... Ford says to run premium if towing always. That being said, I had to run some lower octane fuel through my 2019 out west when towing (only 85 available some places) and the fuel mileage/performance is notably awful. With lower octane fuel, there is a lot more timing retarding being done by the ECU to reduce pre-ignition becuase the lower octane fuel combusts easier/reducing pressure in the cylinders, which will reduce power/efficiency. Depending on tongue weight, you might like a weight distribution hitch with that trailer. I think 6K is about the max without one. 6K-9K requires the WDH if you go by what Ford says. IRS, so, you'll get some good squat...

 

[Rob6805]

Do you have a trailer brake controller and the trailer backup dial? If so, then you have HD tow and 3.73 gears.

 

[duneslider]

I have to be honest, I don't see much, if any, difference between running lower octane or higher octane. I generally try to fill up with premium when I will be towing but there have been a number of trips where the tank was 95% full of lower octane when we were leaving and I can't say I have noticed much difference in power, or gas mileage between high and low octane, or how it performs when towing.

What does make a difference is how fast I drive when towing. I get way better mileage at 60 than at 70. It's tough here because all the highways are 70mph and then once you get out of "city" things bump up to 80mph. It isn't very safe running 60 in an 80 usually. I try to hang out in the slow lane and keep it at 70.