Used 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis

2016 Ford Stripped Chassis Overview

The 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis is a highly versatile and adaptable platform designed for upfitting into a wide array of commercial vehicles. This chassis cab offers a robust foundation for businesses requiring specialized vocational vehicles, from delivery vans and shuttle buses to food trucks and custom work vehicles. Its inherent strength and extensive customization options make it a popular choice for those who need a durable and reliable base for their business operations.

Highlights

• Engine: The 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis primarily offered the 6.8L Triton V10 gasoline engine. This powerful V10 engine delivers ample torque and horsepower, crucial for hauling significant loads and powering various upfitted equipment. While specific horsepower and torque figures can vary slightly depending on configuration, this engine is known for its proven reliability and capability in demanding vocational applications. For certain applications, a 6.2L V8 gasoline engine might also be available, offering a more fuel-efficient option for lighter duty.

• Safety Features:

  • Four-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Standard on all models, ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and reduce stopping distances on various surfaces. This is critical for heavy vehicles carrying potentially unstable loads.
  • Traction Control: Helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration, especially on slippery surfaces. This feature enhances stability and control, reducing the risk of losing traction and a potential accident.
  • Front Airbags: While specific airbag configurations could vary based on upfitting, standard frontal airbags for the driver and front passenger were generally included to provide a measure of occupant protection in the event of a frontal collision.
  • High-Strength Steel Frame: The core of the Stripped Chassis is its robust, high-strength steel ladder frame, engineered to withstand significant torsional stress and support heavy payloads and demanding upfits.

• Trim Summary: The 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis was not offered in traditional "trims" in the same way a consumer-grade vehicle would be. Instead, its "trim" or configuration was largely dictated by the Wheelbase Length. Common wheelbase options included 138-inch, 158-inch, and 178-inch, each offering different cargo capacities and suitability for various upfitting needs. Beyond wheelbase, optional equipment packages for features like air conditioning, upgraded alternators, and heavier-duty suspension components were available to tailor the chassis to specific operational requirements.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Modular Design: The essence of the Stripped Chassis is its modularity. Ford provides a fully functional chassis with the engine, transmission, steering, brakes, and front suspension, leaving the rear axle, wheels, tires, and all bodywork to be customized by upfitters. This allows for unparalleled flexibility in creating bespoke vehicles.
  • Heavy-Duty Construction: Built with the same robust engineering as Ford's Super Duty trucks, the Stripped Chassis is designed for longevity and resilience in commercial environments.
  • Vast Upfitting Potential: The open chassis design, with readily accessible mounting points, makes it ideal for a wide spectrum of vocational bodies and equipment.

What to Expect

Owning and operating a 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis is typically geared towards commercial use, and the ownership experience reflects this.

• Maintenance: Maintenance is generally straightforward for this chassis. As a commercial vehicle, regular oil changes, fluid checks, and inspections of brakes, suspension, and drivetrain components are crucial. Due to the V10 engine, expect oil capacities to be higher than a standard car. Parts are readily available through Ford commercial dealerships and aftermarket suppliers. Routine maintenance schedules should be strictly adhered to to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Many common maintenance tasks can be performed by general auto repair shops familiar with commercial vehicles, though specialized upfitters might be consulted for work related to the custom body.

• Insurance: Insurance for a 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis will be categorized as commercial auto insurance. Premiums will be influenced by factors such as the vehicle's intended use (e.g., delivery vs. passenger transport), driver records, geographic location, and the specific upfit installed. Businesses should expect insurance costs to be higher than for a personal vehicle due to the commercial nature and potential risks associated with hauling or carrying passengers.

Potential Considerations

While the 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis is a formidable platform, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:

• Fuel Economy: The powerful V10 engine, while excellent for performance, is not known for its fuel efficiency. Drivers can expect significantly lower MPG figures compared to smaller commercial vehicles or passenger cars, especially when the chassis is upfitted and loaded. This is a trade-off for its robust capability.
• Ride Comfort: As a chassis designed for heavy-duty work and upfitting, the ride quality without a custom body can be quite firm and utilitarian. The suspension is tuned for load-carrying capacity rather than plush passenger comfort. The final ride quality will also heavily depend on the type of rear axle, suspension, and the weight and balance of the installed body.
• No Standard Body: It's crucial to remember that this is a "stripped chassis." It arrives without any bodywork. The cost and complexity of acquiring and installing the desired upfit should be a significant part of the purchasing decision. This is not a vehicle you can simply drive off the lot and use as-is.
• Noise Levels: Vocational vehicles, especially those with robust powertrains, can sometimes have higher interior noise levels compared to consumer vehicles due to less emphasis on sound deadening. This can vary depending on the upfit and any added insulation.

Overall Summary

The 2016 Ford Stripped Chassis is an exceptionally capable and adaptable workhorse for businesses requiring a custom-built vocational vehicle. Its robust V10 engine, heavy-duty construction, and flexible platform make it a reliable foundation for a wide range of specialized applications. While fuel economy and a more utilitarian ride are factors to consider, its inherent strength and vast upfitting potential solidify its position as a smart investment for businesses that demand durability, power, and tailor-made solutions for their operational needs.