Which engine do you prefer? Any pros and cons you’d like to share about the 3.5 Ecoboost vs the Powerboost? I’m curious to hear your thoughts on both.
Powerboost offers 30+ hp and 100+ tq over the Ecoboost.
The Powerboost is essentially the same engine and transmission as the Ecoboost, but with a small electric motor added for hybrid functionality.
Lane said:
The Powerboost is essentially the same engine and transmission as the Ecoboost, but with a small electric motor added for hybrid functionality.
I love the Powerboost! It’s extra technology that can go wrong, but I average 24.5 mpg and the ability to power things is a game-changer. No regrets after 1.5 years of ownership.
Lane said:
The Powerboost is essentially the same engine and transmission as the Ecoboost, but with a small electric motor added for hybrid functionality.
The 7.2kW system isn’t just a small motor, it’s a battery system that can even power your home during an outage. I’ve seen a YouTube video where a guy powered his camper, including AC, for 6 days on one tank of gas. It’s a great option for campers!
@Morgan
You’re right that it’s the inverter that powers the 7.2kW ProPower Onboard system, but the hybrid battery is 1.5kW. The engine charges it periodically when using the inverter. I’m also considering using this system to power my home during a hurricane in South Florida.
@Oakley
I just installed a system for this in Orlando, with a Generac 6854 to back up my AC and other appliances during outages. Check out this video for installation tips: [YouTube link].
@Morgan
Just to clarify, that generator you mentioned is actually part of the bed system, not the hybrid motor.
Ash said:
@Morgan
Just to clarify, that generator you mentioned is actually part of the bed system, not the hybrid motor.
Actually, there is no generator per se. The engine charges the 1.5kW hybrid battery, which powers the 7.2kW inverter that you can access from the bed.
The Powerboost has more horsepower and torque, Pro Power onboard, and advanced hybrid features like auto stop. However, it does weigh more due to the hybrid system, meaning it has less payload. Also, the transmission is slightly different in how it mates the electric motor with the engine. Not necessarily a con, just something to keep in mind.
I owned a 3.5 Ecoboost before (in a Taurus SHO). Is the water pump internal or external on the truck variants? The only reason I stuck with the 5.0 engine this time around was because of my previous experience with the Ecoboost.
@Brady
The water pump is external on the truck variants. But, yeah, the transverse mounted Ecoboost models had the internal pump, which cost me nearly $4000 to replace on my 2017 Explorer. Fortunately, the warranty covered most of it.
I’d choose Powerboost between the two, but honestly, I wouldn’t go hybrid again. The mileage benefit isn’t huge, and turbo lag is annoying. The generator feature is cool, but that’s about it. Plus, too many electronics that are bound to fail at some point.
I had a 2013 Ecoboost 3.5 and loved it for towing my 26’ travel trailer. I switched to the Powerboost this time around, and I love the extra torque and the Pro Power system. The 24 mpg is great, but honestly, no one buys a truck just for the mpg. Very happy with my Powerboost after working out a few kinks.