Ford led the industry when it built the Model T … but it wouldn’t stop there. Ford vehicles aided American farmers in their prosperous heyday during WWI; the first Ford truck, Model TT, debuted in 1917; and Ford’s crowning achievement—and America’s favorite truck—was born in 1975, meeting buyers in that sweet spot of desired power—less than the F-250, but more than the F-100.
Between the years of innovation of Ford’s trucks, a new utility vehicle was born in the 1960s—the Ford Econoline, marketed as a passenger van, cargo van, and a pickup. The vehicle has been through its own list of innovations, but the 2018 E-Series Cutaway is truly worth some attention.
MADE TO WORK
There’s more to the E-Series than hauling a youth group to a concert (although many churches use the E-Series for just that). There’s more to the E-Series than motorhome transportation (although many families vacation in an E-Series motorhome several times a year). The E-Series was made for heavy-duty work, whenever it’s needed.
The E-450 and E-350 Super Duty DRW are like oxen on the same yoke. Both feature dual rear-wheels, 158- and 176-inch wheelbases, and a standard 6.8-L Triton V10 with 305 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. Buyers can also opt for a 6.2-L flex-fuel V8 with 331 hp and 356 lb-ft of torque. The E-450 has a GVWR range from 14,000 to 14,500 lbs with a payload from 8,610 to 9,040 lbs. The E-450’s maximum GCWR of 22,000 lbs ensures a heavy lifter. The E-350 features a 138-inch wheelbase option with a GVWR range from 11,500 to 12,500 lbs and a payload of 6,280 to 7,560 lbs.
A 155-amp alternator is standard with the 6.8-L V10 and a 150-amp alternator on the 6.2-L provide enough support for any normal day’s work. For those tougher jobs needing maximum power, opt for the extra heavy-duty 225-amp alternator for the 6.8-L V10 and a 240-amp alternator for the 6.2-L V8.
E-Series Cutaways have a max towing capacity of up to 10,000 lbs. For smooth operation, an available factory-integrated trailer brake controller synchronizes the vehicle and trailer brakes. A tow-haul mode is available with the Ford TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission that automatically adjusts for load conditions, grade, and altitude.
What’s more, the E-Series comes with telescopic trailer tow mirrors, available in power or manual adjustment, that provide adjustable flat glass and manual convex spotter mirrors to eliminate those blind spots.
If safety is a concern of yours (and it should be), the E-Series is equipped with four-wheel anti-lock brakes, front airbags, and an available traction control system. Standard on E-Series models is a tire pressure monitoring system in single-rear-wheel models to help you keep your tires properly inflated.
ANY APPLICATION
The E-Series is easy to configure for your specific application. It comes complete with four available upfitter switches, two at 30 amp, one at 15 amp, and the last at 10 amp. These allow an easy connection to aftermarket accessories to your E-Series’ electrical system. They are also integrated into the instrument panel, eliminating a need to cut into the electrical system when installing those necessary accessories.
And, if you’re not keen on completely upfitting the vehicle after purchase, Ford has several packages available, such as high-series exterior upgrade, insulation, interior upgrade, power windows and locks group, right-hand door delete, and even a CNG/propane gaseous engine prep package.
WORK EASY
Work is no fun in an uncomfortable environment. Spend more time on your job and less time rubbing your back in the E-Series. Cutaway models feature high-back bucket seats with vinyl trim and inboard armrests and an auxiliary input jack to play your favorite music on the job.
The interior of the E-Series Cutaway features the Slimline engine cover console that offers convenient access to things like cup holders, loose change, napkins, receipts, flashlights, pens, a tape measure, and anything else that requires quick and easy access.
Ford’s SYNC technology responds to an operator’s voice commands, be it to make a call, listen to the radio, or more. A Bluetooth connection between the operator’s mobile device and the vehicle grants the ability for SYNC to read text messages aloud, ensuring your operators are less tempted to pick up their phone while driving.
Choose the E-350 High-Series Exterior Upgrade Package, and ride in style with a chrome front bumper and a chrome grille.
The E-Series is popular for passenger transport and recreation, but don’t dismiss it as just that. The E-Series is capable, tough, and made to work for you in your specific application.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Find out more about the Ford E-Series, visit www.ford.com.
MODERN WORK TRUCK SOLUTIONS: JULY 2018 ISSUE
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