2019 Ford F-150
The 2019 Ford F-150 continues the legacy of being one of the most versatile pickup trucks on the market. Boasting seven different trims from the basic bread and butter XL model to the absolute luxury of the Limited to the off-roading Raptor, there is something in this lineup for everybody. On top of the trims, there are three bed lengths and six engine types available, making the possibilities endless for your perfect configuration. Some notable differences from the previous year model include the addition of more safety features to all trims such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. On the higher end, a diesel option is now available for the Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum models. Finally, Ford has introduced five new exterior colours to their best-selling vehicle: Agate Black, Velocity Blue, Abyss Gray, Silver Spruce and Ford Performance Blue (Raptor only).
Improve Throttle Response
Every model F-150 pickup, 2019 year inclusive, is using a fly-by-wire throttle system. This system places a sensor on the gas pedal that when depressed, sends an accompanying signal to the PCM (power control module). The PCM evaluates the signal and is able to determine how fast and how far the pedal has been activated, and in response, sends a second signal to command the throttle plate (at the throttle body) to move. All of this happens near instantaneous - key word, near. The reality is many 2019 F-150 owners experience a slight delay in response when depressing the gas pedal, which can be rectified through a throttle controller. These throttle enhancing devices plug in to the wiring harness between the throttle sensor and the PCM. Once connected, users can increase or decrease the throttle sensitivity using the buttons included on the controller display screen. Increasing the sensitivity induces a higher voltage to be sent to the PCM, where the PCM reads the higher voltage as a larger change in throttle position and therefore commands the throttle body to open at a faster rate. The result to the driver is much better throttle response and a snappier, crisper ride. On the flip side, users can also decrease the throttle sensitivity and basically create their own unique eco mode. And unlike an entire new tune, throttle controllers can change settings on the spot - no reboot or the like required.
Improve Cab Access
Whether you’ve lifted your truck or not, it can be quite the jump into the cab. Rather than taking a running leap or hoisting yourself into your seat, there are a number of running boards and step bars that can be installed for practicality and aesthetic purposes. In terms of materials, steel is the name of the game, with either a chrome coating or a black powder-coat.
- Running boards Rectangular in shape and run the full length of the cab, running boards help protect the undercarriage from rock and debris and can come with built-in LED lights on the top and bottom of the step to help entering and exiting the cab at nighttime. For a more high-tech look, another option is power-operated retractable running boards that automatically fold in and out as the door opens and closes (which is a factory option on higher spec'd models).
- Step bars If you want to stay with a classic off-roading look, a step bar is oval or cylindrical in construction, with two distinct step pads integrated into the bar at each door. They can run the full length of the cab as well, or a more utilitarian designed has cropped up lately where there is an individual step for each door without and bridge piece along the bottom of the rocker panel.