I was in the same situation about a year ago. I knew I was going to be getting either a new ATC, Alaskan or 4 Wheel camper in the near future and was also contemplating a new 4X4 truck. Even though the present one was in good shape and running fine the thought of dumping $$$ into a ten year old truck down the line didn't make sense. During the decision making process I determined what my immediate needs/use's were as well as what I wanted out of my Rig in the future. I like to camp off the beaten path, so wheel base was a concern. I also wanted a 500 mile range on a tank of fuel, as well as good low end Torque so a Diesle was a must have. I also concluded that the Camper would stay on at least six plus months out of the year, so having a beefy suspension was also a must. I started to shop around and soon found out that what I was looking for was a rear breed, and the big three, Ford, Dodge and GMC told me I would have to order one to get it just the way I wanted. So in Oct. of 2006 I was able to get in on the last of the orders for a 2007 year model since Ford was already gearing up for production of their 2008 model. In the end this is what I ended up with. "2007" F350 Diesle 4x4 Std. Cab. Torqueshift 5-spd. Trans, 3.73 Limited Slip Axle, 11100# GVWR Pkg., Full Pwr. and Air less electric windows and locks, Tow Command system, Carpet delete, Split Bench Seat, Engine Block Heater, Manual Transfer Case, Skid Plates and a few other minor options. When I took delivery in Jan. of 2007 the truck was just the way I ordered it with one exception. Ford had built it with their ESOF instead of the manual transfer case. Well needless to say I wasn't going to take it unless they were going to give me a sweet heart of a deal. At this point I knew I had the dealer by the B...s since this was not the type of truck they would ever order for their dealership. In the end I was able to get it for $7000.00 less than the build order which put the cost of the truck at dealer cost. Shortly after taking delivery I also added a dr leveling kit which consisted of a new set of progressive springs, shocks to match and a camber alignment kit. I took ownership of my new ATC Cougar Camper in April and thus far I could't be happier with this combination. To date the camper has not come off once due to the fact that the truck doesn't even know it is there. What really helped me out in choosing this combination was taking the time to realisticly determine what my true uses's would be. Up and coming mods include a Buckstop Bumper and 12000 lb. Warn Winch and a ARB front Air Locker. Have fun in making your choices.
Marc