A year ago I decided to start working towards a vehicle that could more easily tow a camper, a boat, utv, etc. Something we could take camping. I never got to as a kid, but I hope to be able to take my family as much as possible in the future.
I have a 6yr old daughter and we just recently had another baby girl in January.
Camping, offroading, etc will be a whole new world to me and I'm really excited about it.
I started browsing this board. Mainly lurking. Posting a few times. Gathering A LOT of information. I've read every build thread at least once lol.
At first I was thinking an AWD Express. It would do most of what I wanted but the towing limitations killed that idea.
I wanted a 2009+ but was unsure if the eventual 4x4 conversion budget would allow an RSC axle.
After a lot of back and forth I decided to go with a 2006+.
The V10 was very tempting. The mpg is horrible but it would have enough power to tow.
The 6.0 is a beast. I know I'd have to bulletproof it pretty quickly. Luckily my older brother is a former Certified Ford Diesel Mechanic and my little brother is part owner of a mechanics shop. I know no less than 5 diesel mechanics.
I pretty much decided I'd get a v10 or 6.0 based on which deal popped up that I liked. The pros/cons were equal to me on both motor choices.
I like passenger models. I want the kiddos to be able to look out the windows when we travel. I also like the look more. I wanted rear ac/heat. I wanted 4 captains chairs, I was open to eventual sienna's as an option. Had to have power windows. Power seat is a big plus for when my wife drives, shes a foot shorter than me. I wanted an RB. Prefer leather but cloth is fine.
Now that I had my search criteria I started watching craigslist, autotrader, cars.com, forums, facebook, etc. I didn't want to buy until my daughter was born but I wanted a good grasp on the market.
Daughter #2 was born healthy as can be on January 7th. Paid all those pesky expensive medical bills. Then let things settle a bit.
Wifey gave the ok. Time to buy!