Towing a NE or 5.0 what size engine to get?

[1200bruce]

Probably going to a half ton F-150 looking at those trailers above, do I really need anything more than the stock 6 cylinder with the 10-speed, or should I go with the 5L V-8 and 10 speed?

Thanks

[PM15283]

Just finished a 2k mile tow of a 5.0 at a maximum of 65 mph and averaged 17mpg. The truck is a 2020 gmc sierra. The engine, the 3.0L duramax diesel. Route was from southern AZ to central MN.

[Doug2000]

My friend is a Ford mechanic and would only suggest the F150 with the 5.0 V8. Don't take my word for it, spend some time on the F150 Forums.

Sorry if I ruffled any feathers, many people like the EcoBoost.

[escape artist]

Originally Posted by 1200bruce

Probably going to a half ton F-150 looking at those trailers above, do I really need anything more than the stock 6 cylinder with the 10-speed, or should I go with the 5L V-8 and 10 speed?

Thanks

Hi: 1200bruce... We do it with a Ram 1500 3L V6 diesel. Get between 21 and 26 mpg Imperial towing. 31.5 mpg's not towing. Maintenance is more costly but the service intervals are longer. So far so good!!!
At the moment we are getting a very respectable 4 weeks to a gallon. Alf
escape artist N.S. of Lake Erie

[cpaharley2008]

I have towed several Escapes with the Ram1500 5.7 Hemi. I avg 13-15 mpg towing and have had no issues other than adding clip on mirrors for the E21. My Mustang GT has the 425hp v-8, there is no replacement for displacement is an old adage but seems to work with towing. That said there are a bunch of owners with the Ford small v-6 eco boost set up and they seem quite happy. You can not go wrong with either set up, IMHO!

[Perry Butler]

Originally Posted by Doug2000

My friend is a Ford mechanic and would only suggest the F150 with the 5.0 V8. Don't take my word for it, spend some time on the F150 Forums.

Sorry if I ruffled any feathers, many people like the EcoBoost.

I'm a regular reader on the F150Forum. Like every forum you can pick and choose what and who you want to believe.

I know Ford mechanics at my dealership who won't buy that old style V8. Five years ago when we purchased our 2015 they were on the fence. However, they just haven't seen the breakdowns others predicted and feel the EB's are better, or at least as reliable, as the older technology V8. It's kind of like the old Powerglide, it's time to move on from old perceptions. Sorry to break that news to you.

While we bought a 3.5 EB it was a hard decision over the 2.7 EB. Flip a coin.

Enjoy,

Perry

[Jesse]

I tow my 5.0 with a 2019 Ford Ranger with a 2.3 eco boost & 10 speed auto. I live on Vancouver Island which can be quite hilly. Driving up the inland Hwy I found myself cruising at 115 kph. About 70 mph. No problem with the hills. When I noticed how fast I was going I slowed down to 105 kph about 65 mph.

[padlin]

I think it was prior to the 3.5 EB that the common mantra was no V6. If it were me buying again I'd pass on the stock V6 and go for either size EB or the V8.