Ford Social: Super Duty® Chief Engineer Chris Brewer Hosts a Live Chat

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Super Duty® Chief Engineer Chris Brewer Hosts a Live Chat

10/20/2009

OCT

Ford F-Series Super Duty® is all about getting the job done, and one of the key people on the team that’s getting the job done is Chris Brewer. As Chief Engineer, he takes the task of meeting customer expectations with the Super Duty seriously.

“Yeah, yeah, I sound like a Super Duty commercial,” said Brewer. “But I really enjoy being part of the Super Duty team. No other Ford vehicle has such a diverse set of customers – retail, ‘fleet-tail,’ fleet and commercial accounts – who buy a wide range of trucks from work trucks to chassis cabs to high-end Lariat and King Ranch pickups.”

By clicking below, you can read the chat that took place on Friday, October 23, at 2:30 p.m. EDT to see how Brewer answered the questions.
<a href="http://www.coveritlive.com/mobile.php?option=com_mobile&task=viewaltcast&altcast_code=34e5112116" >Live Chat with Chris Brewer, Super Duty Chief Engineer</a>

Serving all those customers in a challenging economic environment isn’t easy, but Brewer draws on his acumen in engineering and business to help deliver the best Super Duty possible. He started his career at Ford on the business side, working as a product planning analyst between his first and second years in business school. His background includes degrees in engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and business from The Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania), plus he’s a native of Texas – the epicenter of tough trucks.

“Super Duty customers are diverse and demanding,” Brewer said. “They absolutely depend on them for their livelihood – in many cases it’s literally their office. The 2011 Super Duty has more capability than ever before and is ready to exceed the expectations of our customers.”

Click here to visit fordvehicles.com for more information on the 2011 Super Duty, which goes on sale in the spring of 2010, or find out about all Ford trucks and find out which one is the best truck for you.

30 COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE

James Defelice i had and still have a good tv commerial for ford i tryed to get ahold of ford no one wants to hear my ideas someone needs to get at me my commerial would be first at superbowel sunday no one caresabout a better tv commerial for ford
9 months(s) ago via Ford Social

Fred Chris,Wheres the e-locker for the front diff. for all us hard core off-roaders?Hummers&land rovers have them?.Also.who made the rear decals for my 2011f-250 4x4?.They look terrible for a 40k truck,all broken up!!....Don,t quite like the auto turn signals either,very hard to use correctly.Other than that,i like my new truck.
1 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Greg Goyeneche I was going to ask about the decision not to offer a manual transmission, but several others have beat me to the question. Unfortunately, the answer from the team (Brewer, Waszczenko, Gryglak, and Rathsburg) is the same Ford-speak. I currently drive a '99.5 F350 Dually with the 6sp ZF. I used to own a '95 SHO and decided against a new SHO when they dropped the stick. I now drive an '08 BMW M5, and almost didn't go BMW because they wouldn't offer a stick in the E60. Fortunately, BMW reconsidered, and I was able to order with the 6sp Getrag. I may be an anachronism, but I strongly prefer the manual. Can I get used to your auto? Sure, but I have learned to adjust to many unpleasant, or at least unsatisfying compromises. I'm not going to rant and rave about buying Dodge/Cummins, but Ford does make it more difficult to choose their product IMHO. At the time ('98) when the new Super Duties were released to market, Ford rightly bragged about the number of choices available to buyers, and the fact that they allowed more tailoring to individual preferences than any other manufacturer. Unfortunately, you seem to have lost that mindset, and in the process lowered the utility of an otherwise fine product to a number of potential customers. I would hope that Ford would reconsider and offer a manual transmission as an option. At a minimum, Ford could open a window for MT orders, and then if demand warrants, open another window. I'm in materials management as a professional, and know that ERP and MRP manufacturing software packages allow for a high degree configure to order customization. You should consider taking advantage of the capability of your system.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Ford Super Duty Team Most pickup truck manufacturers now only offer automatic transmissions. With improved Tow/Haul mode and Select Shift technology (which basically enables an automatic transmission to function like a manual), we're confident that manual transmission customers will begin to appreciate the performance and technology of our all-new 6 speed automatic. Chris Brewer, chief engineer Ed Waszczenko, diesel durability engineer Adam Gryglak, chief diesel engineer Brian Rathsburg, marketing manager
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Ford Super Duty Team Warranty information will be made public in the early part of 2010. The horsepower, torque and 5th whee/conventional tow ratings will be published in spring 2010. Chris Brewer, chief engineer Ed Waszczenko, diesel durability engineer Adam Gryglak, chief diesel engineer Brian Rathsburg, marketing manager
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Ford Super Duty Team The Heavy Duty truck market has clearly shifted toward automatic transmissions. In fact, most of the manufacturers now only offer automatic transmissions. With improved Tow/Haul mode and Select Shift technology (which basically enables an automatic transmission to function like a manual), we're confident that manual transmission customers will begin to appreciate the performance and technology of our all-new 6 speed automatic. Chris Brewer, chief engineer Ed Waszczenko, diesel durability engineer Adam Gryglak, chief diesel engineer Brian Rathsburg, marketing manager
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

larry mcdaniel what is the fuel ratings for the new super duty
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Larry Haedicke Hi Chris I have a commercial buisness whit all 454 chevys. I am going to trade two of my fleet for a 6.7 if possible. I need the 20 bio rating.the 6.4 2% rating does not work for me in central IL. Is there any way to put a pre order in for a 6.7 either as a test market in our area "Peoria, IL" or when is the first order date I can get ? Also I beive you do not falfto raise the truck body to do major work , is that correct? I really need a responce ASAP. Or please let me know how to cotact someone at Ford . Thanks Larry H
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Harry Risher What type of OIL FILTER will the new 6.7 PSD use? It better be the screw off type and not that expensive ,pain in the butt canister-type on the 6.0 PSD !
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

adrian hi why didnt ford kept the twinturbo on the new superdutys i think that they should of kept it
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Dwain I have to agree with Scott. I have purchased a 2000 Excursion 7.3 because I didn't have the option to buy a new one. I haul a boat a large family and BIG dogs and need the capability and fuel economy the Excursion offers. People ask why I bought an old truck to drive...because its the best truck Ford made and it has been discontinued.The Expedition and Navigator don't even compare..bring it back !
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Scott Chris Brewer, All I can do is beg you to please bring back the Ford Excursion. I own a 2004 Excursion and it is my favorite vehicle of all time. I have 4 kids and there is nothing else on the market that will tow my trailer and hold my family too! I have been thinking about what I will do when it's time to look for another SUV Diesel that can tow, but there are none out there. This is forcing me to keep my current Excursion for who knows how long?? I am no automotive business man but I do know that if Ford does bring the Excursion back that it will be the only SUV on the market capable of towing 11K pounds and carrying 9 people, which is what I need! I just wanted to let you know that I am a Ford guy and want to continue purchasing Ford vehicles into the future, but if Ford does not answer the call on the Excursion I will be forced to make my next purchase be a Chevy Suburban 3/4 ton with a gas motor, which just makes me sick to even consider that alternative! The Chevy Suburban isn't even rated to safely tow our toy hauler! Please consider bringing back the Diesel Excursion for all of us families that camp, tow trailers, haul kids around town etc. I appreciate you taking the time to read this!
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Adrianspeeder Agreed. I purchased my 6.4L truck with several things I did not want simply because it was the only 6spd I could find, and love how it drives. I will not be very interested in the new 6.7 if it only has an automatic like the chevy only comes with. I forsee a small group of us handshakers moving over to the Dodge camp.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Paul T. How about bringing the Excursion back on the 2010 Superduty Platform especially with the new diesel engine. I know a lot of Excursion owners that are looking for a replacement of their vehicles and there is just nothing out there to compare.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Gray I would like to know the amount of engine life you expect out of the new powertrain, without any kind of major repair. Also, how reliable has the 6.4 been? For those of us that have a 6.4, can we expect significant trouble free life from it?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Neil Costello The new 6.2L V8 gas engine is shown to release soon for the SuperDuty trucks. Where does this leave the Triton V10? Ford is offering the V10 for the ambulance packages in E-Series for 2010. But will it still be a part of SuperDuty trucks? We have a 2004 F550 V10 and its been a superb truck. However with a new V8 and a soon future E-Series redesign most likely for installing the new 6.7L Powerstroke...I envision the V10 being phased out. I see this as a potential error. The new V8 will most likely NOT push the horsepower and torque numbers that the V10 can. I predicted the V10 should be used in an ambulance package many years ago. Many advances in technology has made this possible. Power figures, economy and fuel costs make the V10 a viable option in the ambulance business. The days of the 1980's gas engines are long over.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

JW Flack I understand that you are not the head of marketing but, I would like to know why the 6 speed manual option may not be offered in the 2011 models. There are still a core of hardcore truck guys like me that don't want to only have to buy loaded superduties. I still want to buy a manual shift, benchseat, longbed, with roll up windows, 10 foot bed?, etc. Make the manual shift and extra cost option, don't get rid of it.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Dave Penny Mr. Brewer, We are a new startup renewable energy company that is producing algae oil for biodiesel. I am interested in buying a truck with a diesel engine to support our cause, and I also want a pickup truck. I like the styling and smoother ride of the F-150, but to date I can't get it with a diesel engine. - Will a diesel engine ever be offered in the F-150?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Paul Youngjohn #1 - Will the 6.7 ltr diesel engine warranty have the same 5 yr/100K mile warranty as the 7.3/6.0/6.4 ltrs? #2 - Is there an approximate date when horse power & torque ratings will be published? #3 - Is there an approximate date when 5th wheel/conventional tow ratings will be published?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Martin Mr. Chris Brewer, Hi, I’m not available to participate in your live chat but here’re a few considerations if you or your designated rep are able to address. Fixes: 2008 & on, F250/F350’s: 3 categories: Handling, Lighting, Driver convenience (C-Critical), (S-Significant) 1. (C) Front wheels on un-loaded trucks seem to take even really small potholes with a lot of disturbance and TSB’s address significant wheel shimmy on loaded trucks. Can you expand on the design and overall issue and potential fixes? 2. (C) Please issue a mod to retrofit all headlights to HIDs. The 2008 style is right on the mark but HID technology and benefit seem to far outweigh the expense. Options could include: a. Change the upper headlight to the high beam. b. Make the middle marker light also the turn signal indicator. Works for opposing traffic since high beams will be off 3. (C) Could you also make available a vertical and tilt capable headrests for front seats. Functional and very capable designs have been around since the days of 80’s Recaros without incorporating the two-pronged “projectile” types. Its surprising current design is not considered such a significant issue that Ford’s lawyers haven’t already addressed. Currently, you tilt your head so far back it becomes uncomfortable and appears to be a significant whiplash potential. 4. (S) Please put Glove box lights back in the glovebox 5. (S) Please make available, brighter cargo box lights w/a separate Cargo box light switch back up on the piller between driver and rear passenger. 6. (S) Please retrofit the very small almost tiny vanity mirrors with full length ones with better lighting on the visors. Driver ergonomics could use just a bit more effort. I’m 6’1 tall, 180#, & a standard American male…BTW, my wife really wanted the “Toyota Highlander”… Please help her understand Ford has her interests at heart too. Sincerely, Martin
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Nick Lucius Mr. Brewer, Can you discuss to what degree Ford considers the aftermarket and consumers modifying their pickups when they design a new engine platform/truck design?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

David Riley How much commonality is there between the new SuperDuty and the current F-150? Or are the trucks too different in use and/or size that there isn't much opportunity for parts sharing?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Alexander Hall Dear Mr. Brewer, I am curious as to how you apply your bussiness expertise to the field of engineering? You and your team are constantly givin new challanges by your consumers tastes and overall needs. What do you feel is the best way to deliver on these specifications?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

smiley Unfortunately you are unaware of what actually happened on the 6.4 project. the abreviated version---Between the government regulations (that hurt all diesel truck producers) and the incompetencies of International, there lies the problem. The 6.0l did get all the bugs worked out and has been a great engine the last 3 years of it's life cycle. But don't forget, I would sooner have it built anywhere in North America than to have taken taxpayer money to keep the company alive. Ford is doing what is necessary.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Chip Hill Mr. Brewer, I have a simple question....where are the manual shift trucks(or cars for that matter)?? One of the favorite things about my F350 is the 5sp manual. I go to dealer and look at the Cabela's, Harley, even the XLT now (i think) and they all have the grandma automatics in the them. Granted I suppose the market for the stick shift is limited but the last "loaded" truck I looked at was pushing 50 or 60k for that kinda dough I should be able to get a stick on any trim level I want, not to mention color combo's, if you make the color what do you care what color I put with what? it's my truck isn't... so i have to lay out 50/60 large and then take it to a interior shop to but some color in it and then i need to find a wrecked one with a stick to swap over so i can actually drive my truck and not be just a passenger looking for my cupholder. sheez...
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

mark cardis Hello Ford,,Im excited about this new engine,,,You would love my 2000 F350,,,I put the 2009 Harley Davidson front end on her,,,,with 22.5inch Alcoa Wheels...You need to see pics of my 1 of a kind truck,,You will all appreciate it
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Jimmi They dont even stand behind their Trucks like they used to! The 6.0 is Junk The 6.4 is junk and its all because FORD put their parts on them! They wont fix it you think they will stand behind the people who buy them let alone live here?
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Bill Westbrook The new Fords are looking goob but I think there is one thing missing on them. Scrublade windshield wipers! They are Super Heavy Duty and use "scrubber" technology to clean windshields. Perfect for the Super Duty!
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Thomas Komadina Mr. Brewer: I will not be able to participate in your live chat, I have to work. I do have a question, though. The Super Duty is one of Ford's most profitable vehicles, with Ford profit reportedly more than $10,000 per vehicle. Knowing this large profit margin, why is Ford making the new 6.7 diesel engine in Mexico? Isn't it about time Ford stuck by American workers and made the engine in the United States.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social

Eldon Will this new engine have the in cylinder fuel quinch regen or will there be an injector in the exhaust for the regen like the dodge and chevy has to keep the oil from diluting with fuel? This is a major concern for mine as I will be trading in my 6.4 for this 6.7.
2 year(s) ago via Ford Social