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SOLID BASE
The fully boxed frame, for instance, fortified even more for '09 with hydroformed and high strength steel, gives it a rigid base and a top payload capacity of up to 3,030 pounds. The solid foundation also give the '09 F-150 tow rating of up to 11,300 Pounds.* Ford believes (and proves) the only way to get that kind of capability is with leaf springs- "big honkin' ones" to paraphrase Mike Rowe. Already the widest in class, this year, Ford engineers made the springs 6" longer to smooth the ride and included new mounting hardware to improve on the F-150's lateral rigidity and roll control.
EFFICIENCY
There's also an available new six-speed automatic, a more aerodynamic cab, and other magical engineering feats that helped boost fuel economy 8% on average across the engine line-up. The 5.4L 3V engine, the workhorse of the group, is E85 Flex-Fuel-capable and features Variable Cam Timing (VCT) for enhanced efficiency when hauling heavy loads. The new 4.6L 3 valve SOHC V8 delivers fuel economy no other truck can beat - 21 mpg .** The base 4.6L 2-valve provides improved horsepower and torque with the same fuel economy as the outgoing V6.
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