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Harley model leads F-Series into 2006

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Alex Law
Customers now also have the choice between 4x2 and all-wheel drive,
2006 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson (photo: Ford Motor Company)
with the latter system continuously monitoring the wheel speeds and throttle position to determine the appropriate amount of power to send to the front of the truck to help prevent slip.

F-150 has been the best-selling pickup in Canada for 39 years, and the exterior style that has made it the best-selling vehicle of any kind for two years now and the leader so far for 2005 is back without change for 2006.

But it's probably the inside of the F-150 that makes it as popular as it is today, since Ford has brought a level of sophistication to the truck's interiors that defy comparison. Three different instrument cluster designs give each series a distinctive look, and all models, including the base version, feature an upscale two-tone instrument panel.

The F-150 offers the industry-first modular overhead rail system that allows owners to customize interior storage options to suit their individual needs. With it, occupants may easily snap in additional modules, such as first- aid kits, toolboxes, flashlights and two-way radio holders.

The mainstream F-150 offers three engine choices for 2006 -- a 4.2-liter V-6 engine, a 4.6-liter Triton V-8, and the top-of-the-line 5.4-liter Triton V-8.

Engineering advances in the F-150 are said to lead to exceptional handling, ride and quietness. The fully-boxed frame with hydroformed front rails is the strongest in its class and reduces shake and shudder on rough roads. The liquid-filled engine mounts on V-8 engine installations are meant to attenuate much of the engine's noise and vibration before it can reach the passenger compartment.

Both 4x2 and 4x4 models use coil-on-shock, long-spindle, double-wishbone front suspension with cast aluminum lower control arms, which is a first in the pickup truck segment. The suspension reduces
2006 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson (photo: Ford Motor Company)
unsprung weight to help provide better ride and stability on choppy, broken surfaces.

The Hotchkiss-design rear suspension has been optimized with rear shock absorbers placed outboard of the frame rails (another segment exclusive) for a smoother ride and improved control of body lean. The shock position also provides better control of axle "skipping" and "skating" that can happen on washboard-type surfaces.

Four-wheel vented-disc anti-lock brakes are standard, and for 2006 all 4x2 V-8 models can be ordered with Traction Assist to improve acceleration and stability on slippery surfaces.

Each trim level has its own list of standard equipment, of course, and here is a quick tour of those.

XL includes: Argent front and rear bumpers, black grille and front fascia, interval wipers, 17-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, (SuperCab) AM/FM audio system, black vinyl floor covering, interior map lights and vinyl 40/20/40-split-front seat with manual driver lumbar support.

STX adds: Body-color front and rear step bumpers and grille surround, air conditioning (Regular Cab), AM/FM audio system with single CD player and cloth 40/20/40-split-front seat with manual driver lumbar support.
Alex Law
Alex Law
Automotive expert