5 days, 2400 miles, 8 states and a Porcupine.

[LSchicago]

On the 5th day of owning my Hybrid, we took a 5 day trip. First we drove to Radica campers in Colorado to checkout the moonlander campers. We wanted to see if these units were feasible for the Maverick.

After a bit of measuring, we determined that for the camper to fit properly, it needed to be raised 2" from normal to clear the curved pieces on the front of the bed. We are not ready until spring, but if anybody wants one, they have all the measurements, and can fast track a build for you.

About 36mpg the first tank, with mostly 75 mph driving. Second tank with 80mph limits was mostly at 85mph. This brought actual hand calculated mpg down to 27. Noted to stay at 75 or below if you have the time. 3rd tank was at 37 mpg, and the 4th (mostly back highways) was showing 42.4 when we got home, with half a tank left. There was some beautiful skies, and scenery leaving Denver. Oh, and this driver who cut in front of a truck and almost got t-boned.

Couldn't take many pictures because I was driving, and my wife loves to sleep on road trips. Gassed up at a Maverik station, which I never heard of before. But I thought it was fitting.

Next morning the sunrise didn't disappoint either.

Went to Mt Rushmore.

Caught this archway tunnel heading to Deadwood.

Had lunch in Deadwood, then headed towards home making some stops along the way.

Gassed up again at this station, which specializes in bait, tackle, and ammunition. They had more ammunition than many gun shops. Also a casino.

Decided to to some back highways and ran across this corner in Beaver Creek SD.

And finally about that Porcupine. If it wasn't for my DVR and a few quills, I'd have no idea what nudged my truck sideways in western Nebraska. It was like a strong gust of wind feeling. I knew nothing was on the road because I was was looking forward.

The first picture you can see a Porcupine pop his head out of the grass as I'm passing at 80mph. The second shows his speed trying to cross the road, as he was completely airborne.

Then after the impact under the truck, you can see him coming up over the tailgate. Then he takes off like a rocket. He probably flew 30-40 feet and 15 feet high! My tires did not run over him, so I'm really not sure how he launched like that.

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[JBryant]

Beautiful photos of beautiful country. Now I do not have to take a vacation since I have seen all the beautiful sites LOL. Especially love the Maverick station. If they had one here, I would gas up there even if it cost more.

Thanks a million for posting. It was refreshing.

 

[Old Man]

I know you will say breaking-in a vehicle doesn't matter but the Owner's Manual specifies:

Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), avoid driving at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive shifting or using your vehicle to tow.

So if your engine or transmission develops problems later on ask yourself why you didn't follow the "required" break-in.

 

[LSchicago]

I know you will say breaking-in a vehicle doesn't matter but the Owner's Manual specifies:

Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), avoid driving at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive shifting or using your vehicle to tow.

So if your engine or transmission develops problems later on ask yourself why you didn't follow the "required" break-in.

Quite honestly, the first 1000 miles saw no high speed driving. The truck has yet to see hard breaking, and there is no "shifting". It sill has not had a trailer hitch. Why would you assume these things? Also this "break in period" is more of an old wives tale. A safety net for the manufacturer.

That said, my Mustang was raced on the trip home from the dealer. It has been supercharged to more than double the factory hp. The engine and drivetrain have no issues. It had 260 miles on it at pickup. It ran 11 second 1/4 mile times at 800 miles.
I have never blown a Ford engine, or a non diesel transmission in over 40 years of driving. The one vehicle I break in easy, you choose to comment. Ironic.

 

[Old Man]

You stated 75 mph to 85 mph - that's not break-in speed. Plus it is recommended that there be a good mix of low speed and mid speed. The manual quote says 'braking', tow and shifting - I was just copying it.

Not following break-in on every vehicle doesn't cause a problem but enough that it makes a difference. And it is not a wives tale. Remember reading the forums? They say every engine made is crap. Every transmission. Are you saying those people are wrong? Yes they are but it is just common sense to break-in a vehicle.

 

[LSchicago]

You stated 75 mph to 85 mph - that's not break-in speed. Plus it is recommended that there be a good mix of low speed and mid speed. The manual quote says 'braking', tow and shifting - I was just copying it.

Not following break-in on every vehicle doesn't cause a problem but enough that it makes a difference. And it is not a wives tale. Remember reading the forums? They say every engine made is crap. Every transmission. Are you saying those people are wrong? Yes they are but it is just common sense to break-in a vehicle.

I didn't exceed 75mph until after 1,000. Miles, and the speed limit was 80. If it's going to break, it's going to break. I'm not concerned in the least bit. The bed was empty too. No load at all, besides a duffel bag and a little cooler on the back seat. Next you will say that's too much. Some people just worry too much. All of my tow trucks towed on the first day from the dealer. None ever broke because of it. I may never tow with this Maverick. It has an easy life. It's basically a commuter. Have a good day.

 

[Old Ford Guy]

On the 5th day of owning my Hybrid, we took a 5 day trip. First we drove to Radica campers in Colorado to checkout the moonlander campers. We wanted to see if these units were feasible for the Maverick.

After a bit of measuring, we determined that for the camper to fit properly, it needed to be raised 2" from normal to clear the curved pieces on the front of the bed. We are not ready until spring, but if anybody wants one, they have all the measurements, and can fast track a build for you.

About 36mpg the first tank, with mostly 75 mph driving. Second tank with 80mph limits was mostly at 85mph. This brought actual hand calculated mpg down to 27. Noted to stay at 75 or below if you have the time. 3rd tank was at 37 mpg, and the 4th (mostly back highways) was showing 42.4 when we got home, with half a tank left. There was some beautiful skies, and scenery leaving Denver. Oh, and this driver who cut in front of a truck and almost got t-boned.

Couldn't take many pictures because I was driving, and my wife loves to sleep on road trips. Gassed up at a Maverik station, which I never heard of before. But I thought it was fitting.

Next morning the sunrise didn't disappoint either.

Went to Mt Rushmore.

Caught this archway tunnel heading to Deadwood.

Had lunch in Deadwood, then headed towards home making some stops along the way.

Gassed up again at this station, which specializes in bait, tackle, and ammunition. They had more ammunition than many gun shops. Also a casino.

Decided to to some back highways and ran across this corner in Beaver Creek SD.

And finally about that Porcupine. If it wasn't for my DVR and a few quills, I'd have no idea what nudged my truck sideways in western Nebraska. It was like a strong gust of wind feeling. I knew nothing was on the road because I was was looking forward.

The first picture you can see a Porcupine pop his head out of the grass as I'm passing at 80mph. The second shows his speed trying to cross the road, as he was completely airborne.

Then after the impact under the truck, you can see him coming up over the tailgate. Then he takes off like a rocket. He probably flew 30-40 feet and 15 feet high! My tires did not run over him, so I'm really not sure how he launched like that.

Outstanding Road Trip review!! lovely photos/vids; beautiful scenery and insightful observations. well played Sir.

 

[OneAlienBoi]

I know you will say breaking-in a vehicle doesn't matter but the Owner's Manual specifies:

Your vehicle requires a break-in period. For the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), avoid driving at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive shifting or using your vehicle to tow.

So if your engine or transmission develops problems later on ask yourself why you didn't follow the "required" break-in.

You have to ask yourself what constitutes high speeds? I'm guessing Ford means speeds of 90-110 mph where you're basically redlining the engine. No way that high speed means like 70 or 80.

 

[S. fisher]

Nice, you posted some awesome, pics had a great trip and got a lecture on how you drive your personal property. Just another Wednesday on the ol interwebs.

 

[Last Truck Ever]

Nice, you posted some awesome, pics had a great trip and got a lecture on how you drive your personal property. Just another Wednesday on the ol interwebs.

Sad but also true.

I don't think this thread gets enough respect -- the porcupine story (with PICS!!) is phenomenal! Nice job.

 

[Paulyz]

On the 5th day of owning my Hybrid, we took a 5 day trip. First we drove to Radica campers in Colorado to checkout the moonlander campers. We wanted to see if these units were feasible for the Maverick.

After a bit of measuring, we determined that for the camper to fit properly, it needed to be raised 2" from normal to clear the curved pieces on the front of the bed. We are not ready until spring, but if anybody wants one, they have all the measurements, and can fast track a build for you.

About 36mpg the first tank, with mostly 75 mph driving. Second tank with 80mph limits was mostly at 85mph. This brought actual hand calculated mpg down to 27. Noted to stay at 75 or below if you have the time. 3rd tank was at 37 mpg, and the 4th (mostly back highways) was showing 42.4 when we got home, with half a tank left. There was some beautiful skies, and scenery leaving Denver. Oh, and this driver who cut in front of a truck and almost got t-boned.

Couldn't take many pictures because I was driving, and my wife loves to sleep on road trips. Gassed up at a Maverik station, which I never heard of before. But I thought it was fitting.

Next morning the sunrise didn't disappoint either.

Went to Mt Rushmore.

Caught this archway tunnel heading to Deadwood.

Had lunch in Deadwood, then headed towards home making some stops along the way.

Gassed up again at this station, which specializes in bait, tackle, and ammunition. They had more ammunition than many gun shops. Also a casino.

Decided to to some back highways and ran across this corner in Beaver Creek SD.

And finally about that Porcupine. If it wasn't for my DVR and a few quills, I'd have no idea what nudged my truck sideways in western Nebraska. It was like a strong gust of wind feeling. I knew nothing was on the road because I was was looking forward.

The first picture you can see a Porcupine pop his head out of the grass as I'm passing at 80mph. The second shows his speed trying to cross the road, as he was completely airborne.

Then after the impact under the truck, you can see him coming up over the tailgate. Then he takes off like a rocket. He probably flew 30-40 feet and 15 feet high! My tires did not run over him, so I'm really not sure how he launched like that.

I took that trip to Deadwood, SD about a year & a half ago, but not with my Maverick that I thought would be there for trip. I drove my 2007 Mustang instead. I stayed 4 nights right in Deadwood at the Silverado Franklin Hotel. Walked the town like the old days, was great! Seen all the sites & casinos. Will go again now that I have my Maverick!!

 

[LSchicago]

I took that trip to Deadwood, SD about a year & a half ago, but not with my Maverick that I thought would be there for trip. I drove my 2007 Mustang instead. I stayed 4 nights right in Deadwood at the Silverado Franklin Hotel. Walked the town like the old days, was great! Seen all the sites & casinos. Will go again now that I have my Maverick!!

Deadwood is very different than 20 years ago. It has been updated and modernized.

 

[TomD]

On the 5th day of owning my Hybrid, we took a 5 day trip. First we drove to Radica campers in Colorado to checkout the moonlander campers. We wanted to see if these units were feasible for the Maverick.

After a bit of measuring, we determined that for the camper to fit properly, it needed to be raised 2" from normal to clear the curved pieces on the front of the bed. We are not ready until spring, but if anybody wants one, they have all the measurements, and can fast track a build for you.

About 36mpg the first tank, with mostly 75 mph driving. Second tank with 80mph limits was mostly at 85mph. This brought actual hand calculated mpg down to 27. Noted to stay at 75 or below if you have the time. 3rd tank was at 37 mpg, and the 4th (mostly back highways) was showing 42.4 when we got home, with half a tank left. There was some beautiful skies, and scenery leaving Denver. Oh, and this driver who cut in front of a truck and almost got t-boned.

Couldn't take many pictures because I was driving, and my wife loves to sleep on road trips. Gassed up at a Maverik station, which I never heard of before. But I thought it was fitting.

Next morning the sunrise didn't disappoint either.

Went to Mt Rushmore.

Caught this archway tunnel heading to Deadwood.

Had lunch in Deadwood, then headed towards home making some stops along the way.

Gassed up again at this station, which specializes in bait, tackle, and ammunition. They had more ammunition than many gun shops. Also a casino.

Decided to to some back highways and ran across this corner in Beaver Creek SD.

And finally about that Porcupine. If it wasn't for my DVR and a few quills, I'd have no idea what nudged my truck sideways in western Nebraska. It was like a strong gust of wind feeling. I knew nothing was on the road because I was was looking forward.

The first picture you can see a Porcupine pop his head out of the grass as I'm passing at 80mph. The second shows his speed trying to cross the road, as he was completely airborne.

Then after the impact under the truck, you can see him coming up over the tailgate. Then he takes off like a rocket. He probably flew 30-40 feet and 15 feet high! My tires did not run over him, so I'm really not sure how he launched like that.

We just completed a couple trips with ours. Did you find that your tailbone was starting to hurt after several hours in the truck!

 

[2lbgill]

On the 5th day of owning my Hybrid, we took a 5 day trip. First we drove to Radica campers in Colorado to checkout the moonlander campers. We wanted to see if these units were feasible for the Maverick.

After a bit of measuring, we determined that for the camper to fit properly, it needed to be raised 2" from normal to clear the curved pieces on the front of the bed. We are not ready until spring, but if anybody wants one, they have all the measurements, and can fast track a build for you.

About 36mpg the first tank, with mostly 75 mph driving. Second tank with 80mph limits was mostly at 85mph. This brought actual hand calculated mpg down to 27. Noted to stay at 75 or below if you have the time. 3rd tank was at 37 mpg, and the 4th (mostly back highways) was showing 42.4 when we got home, with half a tank left. There was some beautiful skies, and scenery leaving Denver. Oh, and this driver who cut in front of a truck and almost got t-boned.

Couldn't take many pictures because I was driving, and my wife loves to sleep on road trips. Gassed up at a Maverik station, which I never heard of before. But I thought it was fitting.

Next morning the sunrise didn't disappoint either.

Went to Mt Rushmore.

Caught this archway tunnel heading to Deadwood.

Had lunch in Deadwood, then headed towards home making some stops along the way.

Gassed up again at this station, which specializes in bait, tackle, and ammunition. They had more ammunition than many gun shops. Also a casino.

Decided to to some back highways and ran across this corner in Beaver Creek SD.

And finally about that Porcupine. If it wasn't for my DVR and a few quills, I'd have no idea what nudged my truck sideways in western Nebraska. It was like a strong gust of wind feeling. I knew nothing was on the road because I was was looking forward.

The first picture you can see a Porcupine pop his head out of the grass as I'm passing at 80mph. The second shows his speed trying to cross the road, as he was completely airborne.

Then after the impact under the truck, you can see him coming up over the tailgate. Then he takes off like a rocket. He probably flew 30-40 feet and 15 feet high! My tires did not run over him, so I'm really not sure how he launched like that.

Nice Tour ..............

 

[LSchicago]

We just completed a couple trips with ours. Did you find that your tailbone was starting to hurt after several hours in the truck!

Not at all, neither did my wife. We found the seats to be comfortable. I did drive with the seat up about 4 notches from the bottom. I don't know if that made a difference, that's just where it felt natural.

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