Tailgate clearance of 5.0 backing downhill

[MD-Escape]

Hello,

Long time lurker. First post.
Like many others we are struggling trying decide between a 21C and a 5.0. Leaning heavily towards getting a 5.0 but need to double check a few things first.

Our tow vehicle is a 2018 F150, 4x4, supercrew, 6.5’ bed, with 1668# payload capacity. The tailgate height & bed rail height is about 55.5”.
I’m guessing the 1660# payload will probably mean we will be running near legal limit most of the time. But loading is something I have control over.

My real concern is regarding the space between the TV tailgate/bedrail and the 5.0TA's front and pin box.

We have an immediate 10 degree downward slope when going from the road (level) down my driveway. Any insight/thoughts whether I am going to have a problem with the trailer hitting the back of the bed rails or tailgate when backing down my driveway? I plan on getting the extra 2” trailer lift.

Situation is similar to:
https://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f...tml#post305098

Thanks for any wisdom.

[davidmurphy02]

The post you link is mine. I also have 55.5" bed rail height and the high lift kit, and the 9" of clearance that gives me clears my driveway. Don't know what the exact angle is but I'm guessing at least ten degrees if not more.

[MD-Escape]

Originally Posted by davidmurphy02

The post you link is mine. I also have 55.5" bed rail height and the high lift kit, and the 9" of clearance that gives me clears my driveway. Don't know what the exact angle is but I'm guessing at least ten degrees if not more.

David,

Thanks for the fast reply. I realize you don't have my measurements but is your clearance a comfortable margin (2+ inches) or is it cringe-worthy? It could be a show stopper for us purchasing a 5.0. I don't see any easy workarounds if there's a chance of contact.

[davidmurphy02]

Originally Posted by MD-Escape

David,

Thanks for the fast reply. I realize you don't have my measurements but is your clearance a comfortable margin (2+ inches) or is it cringe-worthy? It could be a show stopper for us purchasing a 5.0. I don't see any easy workarounds if there's a chance of contact.

My clearance is between one and two inches - never measured it. The first time I backed very slowly over the hump while Mary watched the tailgate and trailer frame, and called out "Clear!" when I was over the hump and the gap started increasing again. It is comfortable enough that after the first few tentative times, now I just drive in and out without even thinking about the clearance.

[MD-Escape]

Great! Thanks for helping me check one more doubt off my list. Path to a 5.0 is getting more irresistible.

[cpaharley2008]

Welcome to the Escape world MD-Escape,
Tell us a little about your wants and desires in a new Escape? From a dislocated Marylander to Pennsylvania upon retirement member who is waiting for their fifth Escape!

[MD-Escape]

Just the opposite...Pennsylvanians relocated to Maryland. We are both Nittany Lions. Still a ways to retirement but wanted to enjoy a few laps around the country while still able. I'm a life-long deep woods tent camper, hiker, paddler, etc but it was time to try something new.

Can't wait to get our Escape, make some mods, take the slow routes around our great country and perhaps meet some folks from this forum along the way. The information I've learned from everyone here has been invaluable. Thanks!