2012 Ford F-150 King Ranch – The King of the Road

Sitting near the top end of Ford’s F-150 3-ton pickup range, the 2012 F-150 King Ranch, named after a huge King ranch in Texas, is aimed at ranchers, contractors, or just regular pickup drivers who want or need more than just a basic truck and are prepared to pay almost twice as much as the XL base model for a truck that comes with a load more standard features, better styling and a standard SuperCrew 4-door cab.

 

 

 

2012 Ford F-150 King Ranch Powertrain

Running an all-aluminum 5.0L V8 rated at 360hp or an optional 365 hp 3.5L turbo V6 EcoBoost engine for more horsepower and 420ft-lb of torque, the King Ranch actually weighs in at just over 2.8 tons but can carry between a half ton and a ton of payload depending on whether the buyer chooses the standard 5 1/2′ or the optional 6 1/2′ tray.

2012 Ford F-150 King Ranch Features and Options

There’s a long list of standard features that make this comfortable yet extremely useful vehicle much more than just a workhorse: Remote Start system, Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (DEATC) which allows individual control of heating/cooling for both driver and front passenger, cruise control, rear view camera, universal garage door opener, power-adjustable pedals, heated and cooled power front seats, 110-volt inverter, front and rear power points, 6-disc CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), trip computer, reverse sensing system, Chaparral leather-trimmed steering wheel and front bucket seats, 4.2î LCD Productivity Screen, Sirius Satellite Radio, SYNC in-car connectivity system, and the list goes on and on. This is a high-spec vehicle for the pickup enthusiast who just has to have (almost) everything.

But then there are the options: Ford Work Solutions Cable Lock system for securing the truck bed and its contents, tailgate step, box side steps, skid plates, stowable bed extender, power moonroof, navigation system, electronic locking rear differential, 36-gallon fuel tank, 20-inch wheels and more. To get the more high-spec features such as sat-nav and moonroof as standard you can always upgrade to the Platinum or Harley Davidson model, but many of the exterior options would not be useful to the average pickup owner so haven’t been included by Ford as standard as they are more applicable to contractors or off-road enthusiasts.

The only thing you can’t get in the King Ranch is the 6.2L V8 available on the more expensive models, but for King Ranch buyers this isn’t going to be an issue as that extra power comes with a price, and the 5.0L and EcoBoost engines provide more than adequate power for work or personal use. It’s really only off-road enthusiasts who are going to want to pay the extra up-front cost and higher fuel bill that comes with the bigger V8.

2012 Ford F-150 King Ranch – A Smart Choice

Popularity: 3% [?]

The New 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F-250 is a Fuel Sipping Beast

2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F-250

The  Ford Super Duty Diesel 250 isn’t for everybody. It’s more of a work vehicle than a personal truck, so compared to a Ford F-150 it is not such a comfortable or easy vehicle to drive. But the reason for buying a 250 is for what it can haul ,tow a and it’s fuel effieciency.

With the right Box configuration, the 250 will carry up to a ton of cargo, and that’s where that torque, economical diesel comes into its own.

The Engine is New for the 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F-250

Introduced in 2011, this engine is built in-house by Ford and replaces the 6.4L V8 diesel made by International Navistar which got a reputation for reliability problems in previous years.

It’s a positive step forward, as this grunt working  turbo diesel  produces  the best power (400hp) and torque (800ft-lb) in its class. In addition it can boast the best fuel economy thanks to the new Heavy-Duty 6-speed SelectShift  Automatic Transmission. This tranny  puts the power on the road in the smoothest, most efficient manner possible.

The 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F150 is a Miser on Fuel

Thanks to the high compression of a diesel engine it is inherently more fuel-efficient than a comparably sized gas engine.

How this works is that the extra torque delivered by the engine allows the driver to change up early and take advantage of the high range of the transmission to squeeze out those gallons of diesel over more miles than is possible with gas power.

The Ford Super Duty Diesel 250 is Loaded with Useful Features

The Ford Super Duty Diesel 250 is a well-designed, functional truck with lots of useful features. Access to all parts of the vehicle is made easy with step bars assisting entry to the cab, and a handy tailgate step (optional) that drops down to help you up into the back of the truck.

Inside are many of the features found in the smaller F-150 such as Sync, the system that connects your phone and MP3 player to the truck’s entertainment system. There’s also a great information display on some models that gives you clear data about what the truck is doing.

The 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F 250 trucks come in 3 basic model configurations: 250, 350 and 450. Available as a $7835 option on all trucks across the Super Duty range is the 6.7L turbo-diesel V8 engine.

There are 4 models in the 250 range, starting with the XL at entry level.

2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F-250 Models

• 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel  XL
• 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel  XLT
• 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel  Lariat
• And the range-topping 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel King Ranch.
• The old saying “three something for everyone” is more than just cliché once you own the 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel F-250. Such as the small contractor just needing a basic truck that can haul or tow, the 2012 Ford Super Duty Diesel XL fits the bill.
• OR  the rancher who needs a bigger truck for work around the ranch, but also likes the space and luxury of the King Ranch 4-door Crew Cab to take the family to town on weekends.
• The Lariat slots into the range as an intermediate model, and is available standard with the 2-door 6-seat Super Cab.
• There’s also a Lariat Ultimate Package which is an upgrade throwing in some expensive features like the moon roof, navigation system, power seats and more, for an affordable price.

Starting at the $29,225 base price for the2012  Ford Super Duty Diesel 250 XL is getting the smoothest, most powerful and fuel efficient diesel truck in its class.

Ford’s investment in a new engine and transmission technology has paid off, and the buyers get the benefit. Even if they don’t need the more desirable luxury and electronic features available in the Ford Super Duty Diesel truck range?

 

 

Popularity: 3% [?]

2012 F150 Lariat – Car and Truck Buying Tips – Brad Your Car Guy

2012 F150 Lariat  – Car and Truck Buying Tips – Brad Your Car Guy 

The Ford 2012 F-150 Lariat is a high-end F-150 trim level. This dandy pick-up from Ford is jam-packed with features that put focus on giving convenience to the driver and the passengers.

The 2012 F150 Lariat  is the  perfect for pickup truck lovers who want the best value for money. Feature for feature no competitor can come close in the feature to value to dollar ratio.  Just some of the features worth noting include:

                                                                              The 2012 F150 Lariat and the SYNC Voice-activated In-car Connectivity System

• The SYNC in-vehicle communications and entertainment system is a new feature added to the 2012 F150 Lariat help users in accessing controls and options such as phone integration, entertainment, and navigation. The system can be controlled via voice-controls and navigated through the dashboard LCD for easy access while driving to ensure road safety.
• The SYNC system in the 2012 F150 Lariat can be integrated with smartphones with Bluetooth connectivity. Synching with a phone allows users to make phone calls, browse contacts, access call history and more. The AppLink feature allows users to open smartphone apps through voice control.
• Also in the new 2012 F150 Lariat the SYNC system can also be used to browse through songs when an MP3 player or USB drive is plugged into the system. Voice commands can be used to navigate through artists, songs, albums, or play-lists.

Aside from the phone integration and entertainment value provided by SYNC, navigation is also a core component of the system in the 2012 F150 Lariat.

• Users can get turn-by-turn navigation directions,
•  Business and residential search listings,
• News alerts, sports and weather,
•  And integration with Google Maps and Map-Quest can give more navigation options.

With a touch of a single button you can make a phone call, navigate through songs, and find certain hard to find or get to establishments. All of these without a touch of a single button. 

The 2012 F150 Lariat AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control

The AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control system is a trademark Ford technology that allows drivers to control the Ford 2012 F-150 Lariat when driving under dangerous road conditions.

The system makes use of gyroscopic sensors to measure the Lariat’s vehicle roll and turning rates and apply just the right response to help the vehicle from going out of control.

• This system can be especially useful when the driver regularly navigates through roads that can be slippery at certain intervals.
• In addition, the system can also help drivers from losing control of the Lariat while trying to avoid an object while driving.
• If you are a careful driver and want extra driving protection with your new vehicle because of the dangerous road conditions or terrain in your area, then the 2012 F150 Lariat should top your vehicle acquisition list.

The 2012 F150 Lariat Optional EcoBoost Engine

The standard engine equipped on the 2012 Ford 2012 F-150 Lariat is the 5.0-liter Ti-VCT 4V V8 engine that delivers 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.

It is the most powerful V8 engine of its size in terms of horsepower and torque as well as towing and payload capacities. Because of this, it has an EPA rating of just 15 city miles per gallon and 21 highway miles per gallon.

Fortunately, people wishing to own a 2012 Ford F-150 Lariat have the option of installing a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost Engine instead.

The EcoBoost engine delivers an amazing 420 pound-feet of torque making it equally capable of heavy-duty towing as the V8 engine. It comes at a price when installed to replace the standard V8 engine in the Lariat but the fuel savings it gives is worth every penny.

The EcoBoost engine gives the Lariat an EPA rating of 16 city miles per gallon and 22 highway miles per gallon.

Owners of 2012 Ford F-150 Lariats with EcoBoost engines can expect 15% fuel savings. It allows the best fuel economy of any full-sized gas pickup truck.

For example, a cross-country trip that would normally cost a thousand dollars in fuel can be cut down by as much as $150 with an EcoBoost engine. Imagine the fuel savings for the entire year!

The Ford 2012 F150 Lariat Message Center/Trip Computer

The 2012 Ford F-150 Lariat is equipped with a small LCD display that acts as a message center and trip adviser.

• It informs the driver of vehicle information such as distance traveled,
• Outside temperature,
• Average fuel economy,
• Remaining fuel and the distance before empty.

The message center is a nifty little tool that can be very helpful in situations where the new Ford 2012 F150 Lariat has to be driven for miles. Together with the SYNC navigation features, the message center can just about do every except read the Bible.

 

Popularity: 1% [?]

2012 Ford Explorer – Car Buying Tips – Brad Your Car Guy

 

Car Buying Tips  - Brad Your Car Guy – 2012 Ford Explorer

Ask people to name a good mid-size SUV and for sure the Ford Explorer will either top the list or at least come close. The Explorer has really come a long way since its introduction in 1990 but people need to realize that the new 2012 Ford Explorer is no longer classified as a mid-size SUV after the revamp of its 2011 version. Rather, the 2012 Explorer is now considered a full-size crossover SUV. As always, this vehicle is not only designed as a roomy family vehicle for city use, it is also meant to navigate through rough terrain with little hiccup.

2012 Ford Explorer Redesigned Exterior

Despite being reclassified into a smaller vehicle type, the 2012 Ford Explorer still looks rather large both on the outside and from the inside. In addition, the Explorer retains its masculine and rugged exterior SUV features that make other crossovers look effeminate in comparison. This seems to be done on purpose by Ford in order to continue marketing it to the SUV market.

Unlike its predecessors, the new Explorer features a 3-bar grille front with chrome strips and in addition to its new form factor, making it enjoy a commanding presence on the road.

2012 Ford Explorer Comfortable, Stylish, and Spacious Interior and Cabin

While the sheer width of the 2012 Ford Explorer makes it a challenge to park, the level of comfort and style in the cabin is the same as the level of sleekness in its exterior design. With soft-touch material for the dashboard, well-leathered and comfortable seats and arm rests, and an interchangeable ambient lighting system, it truly is a lot better than what other competing brands have to offer.

This crossover will retain its classic 4-door configuration but will still have enough space to allow up to 7 passengers owing to its 3 rows of seats as well as its extremely spacious cargo area, although it could use more legroom for the rear seats.

High-Tech Gadgetry for the 2012 Ford Explorer 

• The 2012 Ford Explorer definitely has the best electronic features in its class, but there is a level of difficulty with the learning curve of some of these devices.
• The Limited trims come with a panoramic glass roof
• Driver door touch keypad
•  Intelligent keyless entry system with starter button
• Remote start
• 8 airbags
• HID headlights with LED tails
• Two rechargeable USB ports
• Electric-powered third row seating
• Cross-traffic alert system
• Up to 3 LCD screens

MyFord Touch System

The core of the 2012 Ford Explorer’s advanced features lies in its MyFord Touch system which features a touchscreen display that controls various cruise-control, communication, navigation, and multimedia features of the vehicle. The MyFord Touch system can be controlled via control buttons beside the steering wheel hub which is a nifty little feature that makes driving a lot safer.

The High-Performance Engine

Being a monster of a crossover, the 2012 Ford Explorer requires a very strong engine and Ford very well overdid itself in providing just that. The 2012 Ford Explorer is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower, 255 pound-feet of torque, and 6-speed automatic transmission.

For Ford owners who want to invest in a more fuel-efficient yet powerful engine, adding about a thousand dollars will provide you with the EcoBoost system on a turbocharged 4-cylinder horsepower engine with 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Instead of the 17/25 mpg EPA rating of the standard engine, this technology allows you to stretch that to 20/28 mpg.

2012 Ford Explorer Driving Impressions

The 2012 Ford Explorer isn’t exactly built for speed and should not be treated as a pure off-road vehicle. On city streets and highways, it functions as it should and the speed and handling doesn’t make you feel like driving a heavy beast. However, the use of a weaker V6 engine compared to the V8 makes acceleration a bit of a hassle for performance drivers but it overall doesn’t really affect the driving experience much.

Popularity: 1% [?]

2012 Ford Focus – Car Buying Tips – Brad Your Car Guy

2012 Ford Focus-

Despite being in the compact category, the 2012 Ford Focus truly makes up for its size with a library full of features. The 2012 Ford Focus is one of the best, affordable, entry level cars on the market today. The 2012 version is a complete redesign from its predecessors with regards to its interior, exterior, and performance.

Exterior and Interior Features-

Ford decided not to release a coupe version for the 2012 Ford Focus making it available only as a 4-door sedan or a 5-door hatchback. The new Focus retains the sleek and uncommon design of its predecessors which is distinct in the Focus series.

The interior, which has a passenger volume of 91 cubic feet, has a complex interior design with an instrument panel that can be likened to a cockpit with a thick center stack. The interior looks very inviting because of the stylishness of the trims and finishes. Overall, the interior of the 2012 Ford Focus is engineered way ahead of its competition in the compact car market.

Fuel Efficiency at its Best

The 2012 Ford Focus despite being heavier is far more fuel efficient than earlier models. Manual transmission models have a 26/36 MPG rating while the six-speed Powershift automatic models have 28/38. If you want even more fuel efficiency for your 2012 Ford Focus, you can opt for the Super Fuel Economy package with a 28/40 mpg rating. The SFE version is only offered for automatic transmission models though.

Advanced Electronics

The 2012 Ford Focus has a gadget count that puts other cars in the same category to shame. Depending on the edition you choose, you can have several advanced options, such as:

•  Heated leather seats,
• Navigation systems
• Climate control
•  High-end audio system with subwoofer
• MyFord Touch system.

A Short Example of the MyTouch System

Out of all these advanced electronics additions, the most appealing is the MyFord Touch system which is basically a touch screen display system that controls many of the entertainment, communication, navigation, and climate functions in the vehicle among others. A Smartphone has to be paired with the system in order to use the communication and navigation features such as calling or navigation guidance.

Aside from touch screen functionality, you can also access controls via conveniently placed buttons on the steering wheel or via voice control which makes it even more convenient for careful drivers.

2012 Ford Focus Titanium

The Focus Titanium is the top of the line all 2012 Ford Focus editions. I love the Active Park Assist system. It is a nifty little feature that lets the car steer itself into tight parking spots while you control only the brake.

Talk about “look mom-no-hands” this feature is particularly useful for drivers who find parallel parking to be very challenging. In addition cool features that used to be only available on top-end models are now available to Ford Focus buyers as options. Such as:

• Rearview camera
• Keyless ignition system
• Blind-spot warning system
• Navigation system with an 8-inch display.

Handling Characteristics: Sporty and Nimble

The 2012 Ford Focus isn’t exactly built for speed or power but considering its fuel efficiency, there really is nothing more you can ask for from the engine. Speaking of speed this author had the 2011 Ford Focus attain a speed of 110 mph with room to spare, in the Nevada desert last fall. The guy I was drafting for close to sixty miles was in a late model Corvette.

The Focus’s handling is the best in its category and even better than many more expensive vehicles. When the Sport mode is activated, by pulling the gear selector from the D to the S position, the 2012 Focus is responsive with a capital R. Adding to the feel of the road this feature can be is  especially welcome when cutting through corners or cresting hills.

Well Worth a Test Drive

The 2012 Ford Focus is compact, fuel efficient and loaded with new features. If you are considering downsizing or are in just entering the new car market for the first time, the 2012 Ford Focus is well worth a test drive.

 

 

 

Popularity: 1% [?]

2012 Ford Escape – Car Buying Tips-Brad Your Car Guy

2012 Ford Escape – Car Buying Tips-Brad Your Car Guy

The 2012 Ford Escape is scheduled for a redesign for the 2013 model which explains the lack of new features from the previous year. The Escape is a 5-passenger and 4-door compact SUV available in various trims such as XLS, XLT, Limited, and Limited Hybrid. The 2012 Ford Escape is characterized by its high-end entertainment features, the convenient automatic parking option, and the unrivaled fuel efficiency provided by the hybrid trim level.

Although it is little more than a small upgrade from the 2011 model, the 2012 Ford Escape is jam-packed with features that still make it a top contender in the compact SUV market because of advanced features such as the:

2012 Ford Escape – SYNC In-Car Connectivity System

The SYNC In-Car Connectivity System is an easy-to-use system that can be integrated with a phone with Bluetooth connectivity, a compatible MP3 player, or even a USB drive connected to the various device slots available.

With the SYNC, the driver or passengers can make or receive hands free calls, read text messages, control music playback through voice commands, receive navigation support and traffic directions, receive online reports of the vehicle’s health, and even trigger a 911 call when an airbag is deployed after an accident.

The SYNC is a nifty high-tech feature that integrates many services into one. It is perfect for car owners who want the most convenient way of accessing communication, navigation, and entertainment controls into a single centralized system. Whether driving to work, the mall, or just plain cruising around the city, the Ford SYNC system makes the ride more comfortable and worthwhile.

2012Ford Escape – AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control

The AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control is a safety performance feature equipped in the 2012 Ford Escape that uses gyroscopic sensors to measure roll motion and vehicle yaw. When the system senses a loss of control in the vehicle in certain situations such as sudden turns or swerves, it automatically applies the brakes and adjusts engine power to help the driver keep the vehicle under his control and to keep it from rolling over.

The AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control can help the driver of the 2012 Ford Escape cruise safely in dangerous road conditions or difficult terrain or when he swerves or turns sharply to avoid obstacles or objects on the road.

2012 Ford Escape – Excellent Fuel Efficiency -34 Miles Per Gallon

The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid trim is unrivaled in terms of fuel efficiency because of its 34 miles per gallon EPA rating. The electric motor is used for speeds not more than 44 miles per hour thereby producing no emission whatsoever. When the gas engine is activated, there is a smooth transition and the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 gasoline engine together with the electric motor work together to produce a very respectable 34 city miles per gallon. The best part about the hybrid engine is the regenerative braking energy that charges the batteries when the driver applies the brakes. The heat produced while braking is captured and transported to the battery pack as charged power.

Owners of the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid and Limited Hybrid trim level can potentially save thousands of dollars of fuel especially when it is used in city streets most of the time. Although its core feature is in its electric motor, the gas motor does not pale in comparison and still provides top notch power to keep the vehicle running smoothly.

2012 Ford Escape – Double-Lateral and Semi-Trailing Arm Rear Suspension System

The double-lateral and semi-trailing arm design of the 2012 Ford Escape rear suspension allows each rear wheel to work independently to cruise through various road conditions with ease. The inclusion of precise suspension tuning and an installed 18.5 mm rear stabilizer bar also contributes to providing a controlled, comfortable, and responsive ride. Despite being mostly a city vehicle at heart, the excellent suspension of the 2012 Ford Escape makes it perfect for outdoor activities as well. The Escape can also be the perfect family vehicle for outings and vacations.

 

 

Popularity: 1% [?]

The Ford Bronco TGIF-B: Thank Goodness it’s a Ford Bronco

The Day the SUV Almost Became Extinct

The death, demise and burial of the SUV screamed the headlines in November of 2008. The start of the free-fall of the worldwide economy was well underway. The price of gasoline was over four dollars a gallon. Some now speculated that petro was headed just south of five dollars to the gallon. The bottom of the wholesale market on SUV’s collapsed. The resale value of SUV’s where in elevator shaft free-fall. Rumors started to fly of people parking their SUV on the side of the road and walking away persisted. The manufactures were going to scrape production of all SUV’s in favor of smaller more fuel efficient vehicles. That was the end of 2008.

October 2010- America’s love affair with the SUV marches on unabated—– (You can’t take the spots off of a Dalmatian)

Yesterday I drove through the parking lot of the largest shopping mall in Dallas, Texas. Almost half, 50% of the vehicles where SUV’s or their kissin cousins the Crossover. he SUV is to the American family what Red White and Blue is to the 4th of July.

The Marketing and Engineering Genius of Ford the Beginning of Americas SUV Love Affair; The Advent of the Ford Bronco August 1965When Ford launched the Bronco in August 1965 it marked the beginning of a new era in the history of off-road vehicles, at least from an American point of view. Until then, four-wheel-drives had either been made by the specialist domestic manufacturers, Jeep and International. or they were imported in small numbers from Toyota or Land Rover. No mainstream motor maker had attempted to build a lightweight four-wheel-drive for the man in the street.

Yet Ford marketing analysts could see that International was doing well with the Scout; bigger and more modern than the basic Jeep, it was clearly fulfilling a demand for a slightly more civilized 4×4. At the same time, American two-car families were searching for something more interesting to run as a second vehicle, and an off-roader seemed to fit perfectly the outdoor lifestyle to which many Americans aspired.

In 1960, about 11.000 lightweight 4x4s were sold in the U.S., which had more than tripled to 35,000 by 1965. Ford itself predicted that demand would double again to 70,000 by 1970, a forecast that proved remarkably accurate.

No company with the marketing genius of Ford could ignore an opportunity like this. After all, it was fresh from the success of the Falcon, a lightweight sedan, and Mustang  the pioneering pony car, both of which had sold nearly half a million in their first year.

No one was suggesting that a four­ wheel-drive Ford could hope to approach those figures, but it did have the potential to share parts with both Mustang and Falcon, thus driving down costs and cutting development time.

In fact, with the size of the 4×4 market as it then was, no other course would have been economically viable, especially as the Bronco would have to be designed, shared parts aside, on a clean sheet of paper and Ford had no suitable commercial vehicle on which it could he based.

But it did have the International Scout, already a proven success, which is why, when the Bronco was finally announced in the summer of 1965 as a 1966 model, it not only looked very similar to the boxy Scout, but every major dimension was within an inch or two of the International.

The exception was the wheelbase, which was a full 8-in shorter than that of the Scout. Both vehicles were noticeably longer than the Jeep, which was shorter and several hundred pounds heavier. So it was obvious from the start that Ford wasn’t trying to beat the Jeep at its own game, merely to chase the growing market that the larger more user-friendly Scout appeared to have generated.

There were some significant differences, however.

A legacy of the parts shared with the Falcon-Mustang family was the sole engine option, a 170-cubic inch six-cylinder.  The first Bronco therefore had a significant power advantage over the four-cylinder Scout.

There were a few changes to the familiar Ford six-cylinder in its new off-road role: a modified single-barrel carburetor and heavy-duty fuel pump  aimed at keeping the motor supplied, whatever angle the Bronco was facing at the time. There was an oil-bath air cleaner, more effective than a dry element on the dusty hack roads, and a larger oil capacity of six quarts. A skid pan was optional to help protect clutch from accidental damage by sharp rocks.

As tor transmission, the basic gearbox was Ford’s existing three-speed column-shift manual, with synchromesh. This was mated to a two-speed transfer case controlled by a floor-mounted lever that could shift between four-wheel-drive low-range, neutral and two-wheel­ drive high.

A new feature of the transfer case was that two ­wheel-drive came direct, without engaging the transfer gears at all. So these would be stationary or on-road mileage, saving on noise, plus wear and tear. The brakes were another result of a rummage through the Ford parts bin, contributing heftier drums all round. At the time, these drums were thought to be over specified. It would he nearly a decade before Ford fitted front discs as standard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ford made much of the anti-dive geometry built into the front suspension so that it reduced front end  dive under heavy braking, it made it easier to use the optional snow plow attachment! In the hardtop Bronco, the one that looked most like a station wagon, it was necessary to pay extra for the rear seat.

Maybe it was just as well that the entire chassis was welded out of heavy-gauge steel. But in one way the Bronco’s under-body did mark it out as different from the Scout. The live front axle was located by radial arms extending back to near the transmission cross member, and was able to take the braking and driving forces, while a tubular track bar also located the axle. This meant that the front springs had nothing to do apart from cushioning the body, so Ford was able to fit coils instead of the leaf springs which every other 4×4 possessed. The result was a more comfortable ride, plus the added advantage of a smaller turning circle as the coil spring took up less room.

At first, the Bronco came in three versions: Hardtop. Pickup and Roadster. The latter had no roof of any kind, and for true wind-in-the-hair sensation one could fold down the windshield, while the pickup suffered from a very short bed of limited usefulness. “The roadster was soon dropped. The pickup hung on for many years. The hardtop Bronco, preferably with optional rear seat in place, became the key seller.

Ford had intended its new 4×4 to sell as much to farm and forestry workers as to weekend off-readers; at the 1965  launch,  Ford  general manager Donald Frey made that clear, describing  the Bronco as “neither a car nor a truck, but as a vehicle which combines the best of both worlds. The Bronco can serve as a family sedan, sports roadster, snow plow or farm and civil defense vehicle. It has been designed to go nearly anywhere and do almost anything’.

This was reflected in the options list, which included ft and rear power take-offs, snow plow, a low bar, tow hoof and a winch – even a hand throttle to ease driving over severe off-road conditions. Then there was a mower, a power broom and a post-hole borer. But most buyers wouldn’t have been interested in snow plow or power brooms. The Bronco’s real appeal was to weekend sportsmen, “oil-road enthusiasts and  aspirational  urbanites, for them, Ford offered an option “custom equipment package”, which brought a cigarette lighter, chrome plating for the wheel covers, fenders and light bezels  full-width,  front floor mat, oil pressure gauge, Ammeter, horn ring and dual sun visors. A radio and  baggage rack were among the other options.

So what did the magazines think of it? Fortunately, in those days. they weren’t always so ruthlessly critical. Putnam-Science Month proclaimed The Bronco to have a ‘passenger car ride and sports car handling’, while Car Life loved it .  Producing the headline. ‘Even a Dude Will Holler Eeeeeeaaayyhhoor!! However  Dude  even had to admit that a highway cruising speed of 55mph  limited by low gearing, was on the low side. At 60 mph they felt this the little six was working unnecessarily hard and seemed about to blow its top at  the maximum of 74mph.

In its intended use, however, the Bronco had a happier time. Car- Life drove it up into the California mountains, “through muddy creek beds and a hog or two Slush, frozen mud. stiff sagebrush and broken rock were taken in stride with the Bronco’s range of’ gearing’. But theystill wanted a bigger engine option, plus overdrive, to provide more relaxed highway cruising.

More than one road tester had already noticed that the Bronco’s engine bay was easily wide enough to take Ford’s 289 V8. Moreover  they recommended keeping a spare set of wheels with chunky off road tires in the garage, the standard Goodyear Power Cushions being too road-biased to give adequate traction in muddy conditions.

Car Life considered the Bronco’s ride, stiff to say the least’, but not as harsh as that of other 4×4′s. In fact, it maintained that Ford’s four-wheel-drive had fewer idiosyncrasies for the 4×4 novice to get used to than the Jeep, Scout, Land Cruiser or Land Rover. It liked the gear change and fine visibility, and thought that 14mpg was reasonable after the tank of fuel had coped with a 5,000­ft mountain climb in four-wheel-drive. Despite the short legs, Car Life was won over by the Bronco:  it didn’t pronounce it a fun car, but somehow one knew that’s what it meant.

Power & Speed

Whatever the truth, third parties lost no time making their own improvements to the Bronco. Barris Kustom, of North Hollywood, California, produced the one-off Bronco Sportsman, a roadster painted in Golden Saddle Pearl, with a roll bar, walnut side panels, wide wheels, bucket seats and many other period custom details. It made the rounds on motor shows in 1966.

Later the same year Open Road Campers announced a two-berth camping unit which could be fitted to or removed from a Bronco pickup in a few minutes. It came fully equipped with a double bed, 50-lb ice box, three-burner gas range and electric lights.

But the big news came in September 1966, when Ford unveiled its own Bronco V8. It had been simple enough to produce: the very first journalists to take a look under the Bronco’s bonnet observed that the engine bay was nicely VS-sired. and Ford’s well-proven 4.7-litre unit, also shared with the Falcon and Mustang, was ready and waiting. It turned the Bronco into something that really did buck, with   200hp at 4,400 rpm and 282 ft at 2,400. This was the first lightweight 4×4 to offer a V8 an option Jeep didn’t yet have, and although International soon responded with a VS Scout, it couldn’t match the Ford for power, while Land Rover’s V8 Range Rover was still four years away. According to Four Wheeler magazine, the combination of V8  power with front and rear limited-slip differentials made the Bronco unbeatable on the rough. And it couldn’t have come at a better time, when off-road competition was just beginning to emerge, from short local meetings to the famous Baja 1000. The Bronco V8s acquitting themselves well in both.

The V8 was all very well, but it was little more relaxed than the six on long highway drives, as it still featured the same three-speed manual transmission. With no  sign or a solution from Ford. the specialists moved in. The Rancho overdrive, on offer from 1968  , was able to use the full potential of the torquey 289 to reduce engine revs by a substantial 33 per cent, from 3,9000 rpm at 65mph lo just 2.600, resulting in less noise, less wear and tear and less driver fatigue. One magazine found that economy improved from 13.7 mpg without overdrive to 17.5 mpg with it. That same year, Ford replaced the Bronco’s 289-V8 with a 302 , making the need for an official solution even more urgent.

The alternative was a four-speed conversion. Fairway Ford of Placentia, California, sold an adaptor kit to allow any suitable Ford four speed gearbox to be fitted, with dramatic results. Four Wheeler magazine tested a 1969 Bronco 302 with this conversion and changing up at 4,000rpm found it to he capable of 35mph in first gear, 50 mph  in second, 65 in third, running up to around 85mph in fourth. Moreover, it gave a wider choice of ratios for off-road driving.

 

Whatever the number of gear ratios, the Bronco continued to be the 4×4 to beat in off-road racing, where it came to dominate major events like the Baja 1000 and Ascot as well as many local races. It’s short wheelbase give it more maneuverability than the  Scout and new Chevy Blazer. For weekend competitors, it was probably the best buy.

The Blazer,launched in 1969. represented a real threat the first response from a mainstream manufacturer to Fords 4×4. It looked bigger, tougher and less utilitarian than the boxy Bronco, and by 1971 Chevrolet was struggling to keep up with demand. Motor News compared a Blazer with a Bronco and Jeepster Commando that year. and drove them into the mountains of eastern California.

One look at the specification sheet suggests that the Bronco may have met its match. the Blazer having more space, power and comfort. It had an automatic transmission option, plus power steering and disc brakes, while the interior was more like a car than a van. Back from its mountain trip which had been a combination of dusty tracks, rocky grade and smooth highways, the Motor Trend team awarded the Blazer a narrow victory, with the Bronco a close second. The poor old Jeepster didn’t really stand a chance, in that it was considered underpowered and too much of a compromise between street and trail. Ford engineers went back to the drawing board and began plans for the next generation Bronco.

 

Popularity: 14% [?]

SUV’s – Best All Time – Car Buying Tips – Brad Your Car Guy

The Selection Criteria & True

Starting with this post I will list the most influential SUV’s  of all time. This list will comprise almost every SUV manufacturer or name plate. The more copy per vehicle in this first post does not signify the overall importance in the All Time List. Other makes and models will be listed, often by name only, to demonstrate the growth and expansion of this niche. However most of these will be pretenders rather than contenders for the Top Ten List.

After I complete the all time list I will then break down this list, eliminate the non-contenders then set up and rank them in a Top Ten List. I will rank them One to Ten starting with the number ten of most influential SUV of all time.

Major Reviews

As part of and Included in the Top Len list will be major review of each SUV. To start is an overview of the SUV market in alphabetical order by manufacturer. If you don’t see a particular model listed it is because the parent SUV is listed.  The other SUV’s makes or models in that family are in essence “children”…Example: Ford Bronco is the Parent. The Ford Explorer would be a descendant of the Bronco or the Parent. The descendants or children would continue with the Excursion, the Navigator and so on.

The Birth of the SUV

The first SUV’s had their birth in WWII with the Jeep. These were actually hybrids of the Sport Utility Vehicles to follow.  They were working vehicles rather than SUV’s.  Their application as passenger carriers being somewhat of an afterthought.

The Contenders in Alphabetical Order

Chevrolet Blazer:

Off-road racing began to grown in popularity and four wheel drive was increasingly seen as a new leisure pursuit, part of the great American Outdoors. This encouraged General Motors to wade in with the 1969 Blazer almost four years after Ford introduced the Bronco.

Ford Bronco:

When Ford launched the Bronco in August 1965 it marked the beginning of  a new era in the history of off-road vehicles, at least from an American point of view. Until then, four-wheel-drives had either been made by the specialist domestic manufacturers, Jeep and International,  or they were imported in small numbers from Toyota or Land Rover. No mainstream auto manufacturer, up until the mid 1960’s attempted to build a lightweight four-wheel-drive for the man in the street.

Datsun (Nissan) Patrol:

The Datsun launched a research program into a new 4X4 whose appearance left no doubt as to it’s inspiration. The time was 1950 and occupied Japan was full of Jeeps. Production started in 1951 with great success. It continued to sell well 50’s. 60’s and into the 70’s and became the off-road of choice in Southeast Asia and Africa. Then exports exploded in the late 60’s and early 70’s. Nissan was right around the corner.

 

Dodge Ramcharger:

Like the Blazer and Bronco the Ram-Charger was little more than a pick-up with a hard and longer list of options. By today’s standards they were crude SUV’s. Oh well, you do have to start somewhere.

 

HONDA: This is a classic example of a manufacturer that came to SUV’s late, attracted  to the flourishing marketing in the late 1990’s. It had no history of four wheel drive. In 1997 and 1998 CR-V and the HR-V were Honda’s take on the SUV.

Hummer:

By the late 1970’s the Jeep was no longer capable of satisfying modern military needs. It was now too small, too slow, and not sophisticated enough for the US Army. So a competition was launched to design and supply what the Army officals termed a High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle-HMMWV later shortened to Hummvee and still later to Hummer.

Isuzu:

Isuzu is Japans oldest manufacturer, its origin stretching back to 1916; but it was the last of its compatriots to make the transition to 4 wheel drive in 1981 with the introduction of the Trooper.

International Scout

Truck maker International threw their hat in the four drive market with the introduction of the Scout. The Scout was an off road vehicle aimed at the fanatical off road enthusiast, a fast growing market segment.

 

During World War II the US needed a go anywhere reconnaissance vehicle. The result was the Jeep, an icon of the 2oth century and part of the American dream. It also made a fortune for Willys Overland, and inspired a whole fleet of other manufactures to build their own versions after the war, with Land Rover, Toyota, Nissan, Isuzu and Mahindra, among others all producing post-war four wheel vehicles as a result.

MERCEDES BENZ G CLASS: The story of the Mercedes Benz SUV is the story of just models the G-Wagen and the M Class. The G-Wagen was designed and built in Europe, originally as a military vehicle. The M-Class, although designed in Europe was built in a new plant in Alabama for the North American Market. The engineering trick was to take the on-road brilliance to the off-road experience.

 

Range Rover:

Was a milestone change. Here was a SUV that could outperform any other off-roader. The long-travel coil-sprung suspension with load leveling at the rear gave the Range Rover unrivalled ride on-road. This SUV was the impetus for the luxury market in Europe.

Subaru:

Subaru was really never in the SUV market in the image of Land Rover, Jeep or Toyota SUV’s. What Subaru did was pioneer the use of 4 wheel drive in the conventional sedan passenger cars.

 

Suzuki:

Suzuki came late to the world of off-road vehicles exporting its first 4X4 to the West in 1971. The Suzuki Brute sounded big but was really the smallest road-legal-off-roader in the world. The little Brute failed in Africa, although it seemed it would stand a chance in the U.S.A. At this time small was beautiful.

Toyota Landcruiser:

The Toyota abandoned the copycat pickup adoption and was really a passenger version of a tough working vehicle. The Toyota in the late 60’s was starting, just beginning to catch on as quality vehicle, in the mid-range price category. The SUV market gave the Toyota niche a higher ride, better view and perceived safety over the Toyota passenger vehicles.

Volvo:

By right, traditional Volvo owners should be ideal SUV customers. They like roomy, well-built cars that have presence and status. But t is was not until 1997 that Volvo offered a 4 wheel version.

 

Other Contenders and Pretenders:

Daihatsu, Hyundai, Kia, Lada, Lexus, Mahindra, Maserati, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Porsche, Volkswagen.

The next post(s) will take each SUV listed and examine in detail prior to releasing the Top Ten.

Popularity: 13% [?]

Bad or Good All Salespeople are Transparent

Is Persuasion Good or Bad?

Often times I ask consumers “What do you think should be the number one priority of a salesperson?” Before you attempt to answer my question let me suggest that we contemplate and define who a salesperson is.  I personally believe that EVERYONE is a salesperson.

Selling is the Art of Persuasion.

It is the attempt by one human being to get another to buy, adopt or vote for your point of view.  If the sell was a success the consumer, the target, the spouse, the child, the principal, the collector, the lending officer, your boss  or at least a hundred other types , “buys” your product, your position or what you are selling.

Let me explain the Scumbag

When most people think of the word “Salesperson” over 90% immediately associate the monikers car and insurance salespeople. Often with a smirk or shake of the head. The implication is that all salespeople are scumbags.

Are they really?

A scumbag is the guy who illegally parks in handicap zone just because he thinks he can get away with it. Even worse is the guy who obtained a fraudulent Handicap sign and grabs the close up parking space out of pure selfishness. I could probably write a book on all the scumbags I have encountered, so could you. However a scumbag is not worth the time or effort; unless his name and picture was distributed to every grade school in the country in the form of a Top Ten Scumbag List.

Now let me get back to my theory that “Everyone” is selling something and it starts almost from birth.

The Best Salesperson is….

The best salespeople I have encountered are children. If you have children this will resonate with you. My own children up to a least the age on ten never accepted the word “No” the first time. The word NO didn’t appear to even faze them, or enter their mind as the final outcome. After the first NO, the dialogue was one word at a time. I say “No” the kid says “pleasssse” and so it goes until I cave in. Yep that is right I caved in at least 85% of the time.

Children are great salespeople and the bible confirms the idea. Doesn’t the bible teach the concept of “Ask and You shall receive?” Most children remain “natural salespeople” until their parents or other authority figures teach them that this natural talent to sell is really just a case of bad manners. So starts the beginning of the notion that salespeople are somehow ill-mannered, obnoxious bad-people, i.e. the used car salesperson.

The Daily Handicap for a Car Dealer

From here for us in the retail automotive industry every day we start the sales side of our business with a handicap. The handicap is the perception that in order to buy a new or used car you have to deal with the stereotypic “used-car” salesperson. Transparency has leveled the playing field and almost eliminated the stereotypical salesperson. The internet quietly and quickly has sharpened the focus of the consumer. Today good or bad all salespeople become transparent.

How to Spot A Good Salesperson Instantly

Good salespeople have always been transparent internet or not.  The internet has exposed the bad, phony and fraudulent salesperson.  This generation of salespeople will become extinct and starve.

So what is the #1 priority of a salesperson, a good salesperson? The number one priority is to solve your problem. To provide a remedy that takes away your pain. The same way a doctor, dentist, or attorney helps you solve a problem and eliminate your pain.

A good salesperson is a profit center for your business. A good salesperson promotes good will and repeat business.  The customer always appreciates a good  salesperson. A bad salesperson is an expense to your business, suffocates repeat business and destroys your goodwill.

When we have a salesperson position open, we hire attitude and train for skill. This is why we work hard and have been able to maintain a staff of good, problem solving and proud car salespeople.

Popularity: 6% [?]

OK Mozart 26: New York-Chicago-San Francisco-Comes to Bartlesville Oklahoma

Starting Friday June 11, 2010 and for the next nine days you can experience all of the culture and diversity of  New York, Chicago, or San Francisco has to offer, in Bartlesville Oklahoma.

This event has something for everyone and all age groups. The organizers have arranged the entertainment into three different series. Classical, Discovery and the Crossover series.

• The Classical or C Series: The C-Series is the largest series and core of the Festival. It predominantly features OK MOZART’s Resident Orchestra and Chamber Music Ensemble.The C-Series features the best in classical music and incorporates a mix of works by Mozart and the Masters in addition to contemporary classical repertoire.
• The Discovery or D-Series is designed to provide an alternative to pure classical music. It relates to a broader audience and encompasses all aspects of the  performing arts. The D-series includes concerts held in non-traditional settings.
• The Crossover or X -Series is designed to offer a performance that reaches beyond the confines of
  classical music and performing arts. The X-Series programs have little or no relation to classical music and provide the opportunity for progressive, cutting-edge performances for non-classical enthusiasts or a change of pace for audiences that appreciate diversity.

Here are a few other insights to a Festivsal I invite you to visit and enjoy.

Smunty to Open OK Mozart Festival!

Voje fans, get up outta your chairs and shake those derrieres up to Bartlesville this Friday for the OK Mozartkickoff event of the year, featuring your very own favorite band, Smunty Voje. There will be food and drink vendors, …

http://smuntyvoje.com/2010/06/smunty-to-open-ok-mozart-festival/

OK Mozart Welcomes Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey!

OK MozartWelcomes Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey! Saturday, June 12, 2010 at 8:00 PM Community Center Bartlesville , Oklahoma United States. See more here: OK Mozart Welcomes Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey!

http://claremore.localspur.com/2010/06/05/ok-mozart-welcomes-jacob-fred-jazz-odyssey/

JFJO – Ludwig World Premier 6/12 – Stay Gold release tour 6/16

The project premiers with the 50 piece Bartlesville Symphony Orchestra on June 12th, kicking off the 26th annual OK MozartFestival in the gorgeous PAC at the Bartlesville Community Center. Tickets are still available and can be …

Jeff Harshbarger taps his bass instincts and others tap his …

He also needed to prepare for the band’s role in the OK MozartFestival, coming up Saturday in Bartlesville, Okla., where the Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey and the Bartlesville Symphony will perform “Ludwig,” …

http://www.kansascity.com/2010/06/04/1990836/jeff-harshbarger-taps-his-bass.html

Since 1995 we have supplied a entire fleet of cars, crossovers, and SUV’s to the Festival for the visiting entertainers use. This fleet includes new Fords, Lincolns, Mercurys and Toyotas. At the end of the Festival and starting on Monday June 21st we will offer this entire fleet at steep discounts to the public.

 

Popularity: 6% [?]

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