F150 5.4L vs 5.0L Torque Curves

[acadianbob]

Awhile back we were discussing torque and I pointed out that the 5.4 is actually a really good torque producer and I lamented that I thought Ford had caved in to the "Car Magazines" in their criticism of the 5.4 as "underpowered". That's because car magazines don't understand trucks and why torque is important. They're busy measuring 0-60 times and slalom speeds. So, if you have a 5.4, don't let anybody knock it as it is very competitive on torque. Here are the numbers versus the new 5.0.

5.0L 5.4L

1500 rpm = 275# 1500 rpm = 260# ?
2000 rpm = 302# 2000 rpm = 315#
2500 rpm = 315# 2500 rpm = 340#
3000 rpm = 327# 3000 rpm = 356#
3500 rpm = 350# 3500 rpm = 365#
4000 rpm = 362# 4000 rpm = 365#
4500 rpm = 379# 4500 rpm = 363#
5000 rpm = 356# 5000 rpm = 350#
5500 rpm = 348# 5500 rpm = 297# (Redline)
6000 rpm = 315# (Redline)

Here is the link to other Ford engines and other brands as well if you are interested.

Torque Curves for all motors but 4.6L 2V - Ford F150 Forum - Community of Ford Truck Fans

[baldy]

Just had my 5.4 in for oil and was looking at the numbers. It definitely pulls its weight. I am satisfied with my 5.4. I think the 5.0 is a good replacement but if I were to buy a new F150 I would go for the Ecoboost. Drove one and it was impressive. Towing must be amazing.

[TheSasks]

It is interesting as they still rate the EcoBoost for occasional towing and state if your are looking for a full time time hauler the V8's are the way to go as the EB get about the same towing as the new V8's. Although if a person was going to tow as a primary job a 3/4 or 1 ton would seem to be the proper choice.

[acadianbob]

Originally Posted by TheSasks

It is interesting as they still rate the EcoBoost for occasional towing and state if your are looking for a full time time hauler the V8's are the way to go as the EB get about the same towing as the new V8's. Although if a person was going to tow as a primary job a 3/4 or 1 ton would seem to be the proper choice.

Yes, the advantage of the Ecoboost kind of goes away on full time hauling; at least from a fuel economy perspective. Still, that torque curve is impressive. Also, interesting that it out-torques the 6.2 up until 4,000 RPM.

[mtnguy]

Y'all are convincing me to keep my 5.4 instead of the spending the money on an Ecoboost.....that is a good thing.

I have been very satisfied with my 5.4. But I am not pulling a very heavy camper.....about 5500 lbs.

The only concern that I have is pulling the curvy steep mountain roads around here. The transmission will shift to 2nd. I can still accelerate a bit if need be, but I just let the engine hum along in the low 3000s rpm range. My concern is much of the time the torque converter will be unlocked, contributing to transmission heating. I have seen the transmission temperature top at 215°.....still not bad, but I like to see it in the 170° to 180° range.

I think I am longing for the new 6 speed transmission more so than any of the newer engines.

[Dave_Monica]

Originally Posted by TheSasks

It is interesting as they still rate the EcoBoost for occasional towing and state if your are looking for a full time time hauler the V8's are the way to go as the EB get about the same towing as the new V8's.

I don't understand this. If you opt for the max towing package, you get the 3.5 ecoboost. There's no question in my mind that the ecoboost is the superior engine for towing...420 ft.lb torque at 2500 rpm. For towing you want the most torque at the lowest rpm which should also deliver the better fuel mileage...fewer downshifts for small inclines, etc.

I'll have to see if I can find a torque curve for my V10...I don't think it'll be more than 420 ft.lb at 2500 rpm.

Dave

[acadianbob]

Originally Posted by mtnguy

Y'all are convincing me to keep my 5.4 instead of the spending the money on an Ecoboost.....that is a good thing.

I think I am longing for the new 6 speed transmission more so than any of the newer engines.

Agree with the 6 speed Chap. I'm really a fan after driving one. It's an awesome transmission. If your 5.4 was a 6 speed, you'd have a lot less reason to change tow vehicles. I've always thought there is too big a gap between 4th and 3rd. My '05 would come out of 4th pretty easily too. Much better if I didn't use cruise control. Just let it drag down a little on up-slopes.

Also, when my 4-speed needed 2nd gear in the mountains, I was able to get the torque converter to lock by playing a bit with the throttle. You can have even more success if you pull the selector to "2". I'm with you, I dislike an unlocked torque converter.

[mtnguy]

Originally Posted by acadianbob

Also, when my 4-speed needed 2nd gear in the mountains, I was able to get the torque converter to lock by playing a bit with the throttle. You can have even more success if you pull the selector to "2". I'm with you, I dislike an unlocked torque converter.

With the gear selector in 2, I can back off of the throttle and get the torque converter to lock-up, but as soon as I get back on the gas the torque converter will unlock again. so just leave the converter unlocked to save the shifting back and forth. The Eastern Mountain Directory shows Rt. 33 going over Swift Run Gap as an 8 and 9% grade.....slowing down for the curves is the killer. If I could keep the speed up without the curves I would be much better off.

[MikeDett]

I pick up my FR Rockwod Sig LT 8315 in March. I have a 2008 F150 5.4. w/ propride hitch. From what I hear the trip from Ohio to Calif. will be a true test for the 5.4. The real test will be our first camp that is at 8500 ft. twisting roads.

I'll post when that happens in April.

A 6 speed with closer gear splits would be the answer. Has anyone tried the get more torque out of their 5.4??

[acadianbob]

I've tried tuners. Even a premium tow tune. Didn't make any perceptible difference. Stay stock and save your money IMO.