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2004 - 2005 engine change info
Hi All,

I'm still on the hunt for my "dream machine," 26.5 mid bath.  While researching, I noticed that there was an engine change from 2004 - 2005, with the 2005 getting a "tow/haul mode."  Can anyone explain the difference between the two engines?  Does this "tow/haul mode" make a difference when towing a TOAD (which I will be doing)? 

Thanks much!!
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #1 –
Hi Gypsy, and welcome to the forum!  I'm assuming you've already checked out this part of the forum:

Lazy Daze Pocket Guide

Yes, the towhaul feature is very useful when towing so you'll definitely want that. In my experience, it's invaluable if you do any mountain driving, allowing you to use the transmission for slowing when going down steep hills. You'll want to buy the newest chassis you can afford to take advantages of improvements over the years (brakes, transmission, etc.). When I purchased mine, I wanted the 6-speed transmission which was introduced in 2016.

I'm sure others will chime in with more information about their experiences.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #2 –
There were no significant changes in the V10 engines after 2003.
2005 the 5R110 5-speed auto transmission with tow/haul mode became available. It is useful for towing

In 2008 the GVW was increased by 450 lbs, the brakes were upsized and the steering recalibrated.
2008 is a better choice.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #3 –
For the most part, every upgrade is an actual improvement over what came before (see foggy windows for a possible exception).   In an ideal world, there would be an unlimited supply of the latest and greatest at prices that fit our budget.

In the real world, I think it makes sense to understand the differences between model years and consider which combinations you can live with.   Otherwise you could be waiting for years (forever?) for the right combo to show up.

2002 and earlier rigs could have spark plug blowout issues.   Some (maybe 1/2? idk) 2003's also have this issue.  

2003 and later rigs have the insulated windows that eventually fog up.

2005 was a transmission upgrade (4R100 to 5R100)

2008 was a brake upgrade.  

2016 was another transmission upgrade.

2021 was a new engine (a VERY small number of LDs have this).

I have a 2003 without the spark plug issue.   The foggy windows bug me, but I tow a toad (CR-V for now) with no issues. 

For a heavier toad, an offroad cabable Jeep or Bronco for example, I would prefer a 2008+.

Many of these rigs are decades old and the way they were maintained matters as much or more than how they were originally equipped. 

It's all about the tradeoffs you're willing to accept, the price you're willing to pay, and which rigs are available on the market. 

Rich
2003 MB
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #4 –
I don't think the tow-haul is enough of an improvement to justify a choice. Towing is the same, either way, downshifting is just a manual process when needed. I think, given the option, I would opt for a pre- 2003 lower mileage model and have the spark plug mod done. The fogged dual-pane windows are endemic to the 2003 and later rigs.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #5 –
I believe I read somewhere that the tow-haul switch was an effort by Ford to tweak the gas mileage standards for the vehicle.  The concept was that tow-haul mode off gave the numbers to tell the EPA, mode on was for normal usage.   Personally, I am always in tow-haul (although I rarely move the rig without the tow'd).
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #6 –
Quote from: Steve  - 
I don't think the tow-haul is enough of an improvement to justify a choice. Towing is the same, either way, downshifting is just a manual process when needed. I think, given the option, I would opt for a pre- 2003 lower mileage model and have the spark plug mod done. The fogged dual-pane windows are endemic to the 2003 and later rigs.

The fogged window problem will happen to every 2003 and later LD, it is just a matter of time.
We have towed heavy Jeeps for most of our LD's 151,000m miles with the older 4-speed 4L100 transmission, downshifting manually instead of having a computer do it. YMMV
If upgrading, I would look for a 2008+ model.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: 2004 - 2005 engine change info
Reply #7 –
"...downshifting manually instead of having a computer do it."

When Steve Newton offered me a tow/haul trans if I would only wait a couple of months I turned him down! I know how to jamb my own box!   ::)  ;)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!