Why not Test Older Trucks on the Ike Gauntlet? [Ask TFLtruck]

2008 ford super duty diesel modified fast pickup truck
2008 Ford Super Duty

TFLtruck recently received this question from one of our viewers. We have received several questions like the one Michael asks below.

Hey guys,
Love your Ike Gauntlet runs. I realize that your platform is set up to showcase new trucks however, with the large percentage of trucks that are more than 15-25 years old that are on the road, still doing their jobs, year after year. Do you think you could do a “Retro Ike Run”?

Like many others out there, I am not able to buy a new truck and would love to see a comparison of the older trucks pulling a typical Travel Trailer, say like 30′ bumper/hitch pull. with camping season just getting into swing I think there is a large audience to be had.

If I had my way entirely, I would compare one brand (Ford) and all the engine combinations that were available (4.9 I-6, 5.0 Non Coyote, 5.8, 5.8 lightning, 7.5, 7.3 Powerstroke, 7.3 IDI, 4.6, 5.4, 5.4 supercharged, 6.8 v10). Perhaps, compare a new truck to a late 90’s 460 or 2000’s V10. Just curious to know how the older powerplants would do,something I could afford.

Keep up the good Vids!
Thanks in advance, Michael L.

The answer is a simple – yes, we would love to test older pickup trucks on the Ike Gauntlet. However, difficult logistics of this endeavor have prevented us from doing this so far. One of the issues is finding truck owners in our area (Denver, Colorado) who would be willing to have their truck participate in a test like the Ike Gauntlet. The next issue is finding evenly matched and maintained trucks.

We are very fortunate to receive the latest trucks from the manufacturers via the press fleet managers. These trucks are all professionally broken-in and properly maintained. With enough interest and enough time to plan tests like these, we can see us doing this in the future.

Thank you for asking the questions. Please keep them coming in the comments section or send directly to ask@tfltruck.com

Take a look at this modified 2008 Ford Super Duty. It’s one quick diesel!

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov is an Automotive Enthusiast, Producer, Reviewer, Videographer, Writer, Software Engineer, Husband, Father, and Friend.