Towing with Ford F-150

[Ronn]

Originally Posted by C&G in FL

All good ideas, Joe, but the Roadmaster Active Suspension DOES NOT increase payload. It actually reduces payload by an amount equal to its own weight. But it does do all the other things that you mention, and I would recommend it to anyone with an F-150, especially those towing or often carrying loads in the cargo bed.

Ditto - I have the Roadmaster's and like them as well.

[Ronn]

Originally Posted by padlin

I'd like to know how someone got 1036 lbs for a pin weight, most I've gotten was 750.

Mine runs right around 800 Lbs

[Brian B-P]

Originally Posted by padlin

I'd like to know how someone got 1036 lbs for a pin weight, most I've gotten was 750.

It was to some extent liquids...
5.0TA Scale Weights B.C.

And yes, this is abnormally high.

[John in Santa Cruz]

Isn't the F150 with the max tow package virtually a F250 in terms of capacity ?

[Centex]

Originally Posted by John in Santa Cruz

Isn't the F150 with the max tow package virtually a F250 in terms of capacity ?

IMO as a 'blanket general proposition' the answer isn't as simple as one might wish and invites lot's of (ahem) 'debate' depending on the beholder's viewpoint and definition of "virtually".

While you can equip an F150 for "Towing Capacity #" or "Payload Capacity #" similar to an F250, it's very limiting in terms of cab/box combinations due to 'bundle configuration' constraints. For example, you can't get the stated F150 max Tow Capacity # and the stated F150 max Payload Capacity # with any possible combination of options in any one F150 truck.

With an F250 there's lots more latitude when it comes to cab/box combinations that will deliver both "Towing Capacity #" and "Payload Capacity #" at least equal to the maximums stated for an F150. No, I'm not confusing or comparing F150 maximums with F250 maximums - just the F150 maximums to what an F250 can equal (at less than its 'maximum' configuration).

So, can an F150 be delivered that's "virtually" an F250 in terms of "capacity"? Not in all respects I'd suggest, but maybe in some depending on what measure of capacity is important to you (thus IMO the answer isn't simple, depends on viewpoint, and invites debate).

One tool to help start figuring out the relative possibilities and constraints - 2020 FORD RV & TRAILER TOWING GUIDE

[John in Santa Cruz]

Originally Posted by Centex

IMO as a 'blanket general proposition' the answer isn't as simple as one might wish and invites lot's of (ahem) 'debate' depending on the beholder's viewpoint and definition of "virtually".

While you can equip an F150 for "Towing Capacity #" or "Payload Capacity #" similar to an F250, it's very limiting ...

With an F250 there's lots more latitude ...

heh.

that is why I'm driving a dinosaur 2002 F250 7.3. its an extended cab 8 foot bed, with the massively heavy 7.3 powerstroke, and a 38 gallon tank, so its payload is just a full ton. Rated to tow 12500 lbs. assuming 10% tongue weight, and using WDH, it can tow 12000 lbs and carry 800 lbs while staying under GCWR. It can easily tow the 4500 lb E21. the long bed makes it so much easier to carry awnings, tables, chairs, ladders *AND* telescopes and still have room for generator, gas, water, big beer cooler, etc. and the 7.3 shrugs and chugs its way up mountains. recent 1200 mile 'evacuation refugee glamping' run in Northern California, I averaged 13-14 MPG, while driving hard up mountain roads and trying to maintain 65 most of the time. only real downside is its huge, and has a lousy turning radius. With KO2 tires and its 4x4, its surprisingly competent on dirt/gravel roads, or in heavy rain.

the 7.3 will probably outlive me, but the 4R100 automatic transmission probably won't.

[Centex]

Originally Posted by John in Santa Cruz

heh.

that is why I'm driving a dinosaur .....

I hear ya, your 'dinosaur' looks like a great tug. I'm all-in on the 7.3 PSD longevity and while the 4R100 may not equal it, it's still a very good tranny and the economics of replacement still work in your favor if ever needed. But you already know all of that

Some folks don't like driving dinosaurs, and while I can understand that to some extent I'm not in that camp myself.

While far from your 2002 F250, I've got a 'mine since new' 2005 F150 XLT Supercab+6-1/2' box 'dinosaur'. With only ~110k miles, meticulously owner maintained, in great cosmetic and mechanical condition, it's got lots of life left in it. It's imminently suitable for towing the 5.0TA with "rated capacities" of 1729# Payload and 9500# Trailer/5th-Wheel per the 2005 Ford Towing Guide and its build-sheet specs.

I recently 'refreshed' it by simple installation of an in-dash Sony audio unit that provides integrated hands-free phone and a backup-cam ... the two main modern-tech features I missed by virtue of its 'dinosaur' status. A bonus being the aftermarket backup-cam can be located at the front of the box, an ideal situation for solo-hitching a 5.0TA ... and that's exactly the duty I'm looking forward to with my 'dinosaur'

[kavm]

This might have been cleared up already but...

2021 F150 Order Guide says the following on HDPP availability.

• It is only available on XL/XLT with limited trims.
• It seems like 157 WB is an option - which would be SuperCrew + 6.5' box. Of course, the 8' box is an option.

The earlier posts left me with the impression that the 8' box might be required but that does not appear to be not the case. We are buying 2021 F150 but not the trims (XL/XLT) mentioned - so it is not an option for us.

[John in Santa Cruz]

Originally Posted by Centex

\Some folks don't like driving dinosaurs, and while I can understand that to some extent I'm not in that camp myself. ...

heh, our 'cars' for daily use are a couple early 90s Mercedes. So yeah, Dinosaurs-R-Us.


funny aside, we have been considering replacing the old benzes, with a single newer 'more reliable' car, but had a HECK of a time finding anything we both like.

just the other day, we test drove a 2017 Mercedes GLE350, a 2020 BMW X3, and a 2020 BMW X1, and a 2020 Mazda CX-5. previously, we test drove a couple Lexus RX350s (next-to-latest generation, and the one before that), a Lexus LS450(?) big sedan, an Infinity G30 sporty-sedan, and extensively test drove a loaded 2020 Subaru Outback. Each time we get back in my wife's 1994 Mercedes E320 wagon (275,000 miles), and go wow, we really like the way this rides and drives. at any speed under 120, the interior is silent, and even on the roughest roads, the ride is smooth and well controlled, and there's absolutely no drama when you have to nail the brakes or make an avoidance maneuver at highway speeds, or whatever. the seats are supremely comfortable for very long drives.. the inline 6 3.2L DOHC engine is nearly silent at any speed or throttle setting.



Actually, of ALL those cars, the Mazda CX-5 impressed us the most. Its not as quiet as the old benzes, or as smooth, but it drove very nicely, the interior was very nicely appointed ('grand touring' trim, with beige leather seating in a white car, my wife's preference). the dashboard computer was a bit convoluted, but I'm sure we'd get a handle on it without too much trouble.

[jmikeb76]

I have a F-150, 2.7l EcoBoost to tow my Escape 21 once its delivered. Looking at the numbers and after talking to many people on the forum and Facebook I decided that was plenty of TV for what I need. Question for experience F-150 TV folks; should I plan for a WDH or is the standard weight bearing hitch alone sufficient? What’s your experience?

[padlin]

Depends on how careful a person you are. Most WDH's have built in sway control, without one you obviously have none. One can buy a separate sway bar although I have no experience with such so can't help there. You can certainly go without either and see how the rig handles. If you don't like it, you can buy one later. I always towed with a WDH that had torsion sway bars on my full size trucks, mainly because I had bought it when I was towing with an old Ranger that needed one. So I used it on the GMC and F150 because I had it.

[TahoeJoe]

I have had towing setups where I didn't *need* the WDH, but I preferred to have it on anyway. Like Bob said, it can help with sway control if that's integrated. And just in general, I think it's a better towing feel than when I don't use one. I've had several and my favorite is the Fastway e2 hitch, it is rock solid and awesome for sway.

[C&G in FL]

Only my opinion for what it’s worth, but if I owned a 17, I wouldn’t bother with a WDH, but with a 19 or a 21 I believe it makes sense to go with a WDH. As stated, it helps with sway. I used a friction sway bar on a previous trailer. It worked, but I really did not like it.

[sofmerc]

Originally Posted by Ron in BC

Can you document that statement and what years, if any, that it applies to.



That's it exactly, in Canada, one size fits all. Maybe because our gallons are larger.

Ron

I bought a F150 that was delivered new to Canada. 2016 Lauriat, 6.5' bed and It has the 36 gallon fuel tank. Crew cab version but wish it was supercab.

[uthorns]

Originally Posted by C&G in FL

Absolutely, when the Roadmaster “kicks in,” it pretty much eliminates “sagging” of the cargo bed. I really like mine and I know of a few others who participate in this forum who have added one to their F-150s. When my 2015 F-150 was fried by lightning, the very first thing I added to the replacement 2020 was the RAS. Having had one for 5 years, I really would not like to tow my 5.0 TA without the RAS.

I just recently purchased a 2014 F-150 XLT with a payload capacity of 1748# do you recommend the standard RAS or the heavy duty. The heavy duty seems to be what I'd need but would like some real world experience on the ride quality.

Jimmy

[oldwave]

Originally Posted by Centex

I hear ya, your 'dinosaur' looks like a great tug. I'm all-in on the 7.3 PSD longevity and while the 4R100 may not equal it, it's still a very good tranny and the economics of replacement still work in your favor if ever needed. But you already know all of that

Some folks don't like driving dinosaurs, and while I can understand that to some extent I'm not in that camp myself.

While far from your 2002 F250, I've got a 'mine since new' 2005 F150 XLT Supercab+6-1/2' box 'dinosaur'. With only ~110k miles, meticulously owner maintained, in great cosmetic and mechanical condition, it's got lots of life left in it. It's imminently suitable for towing the 5.0TA with "rated capacities" of 1729# Payload and 9500# Trailer/5th-Wheel per the 2005 Ford Towing Guide and its build-sheet specs.

I recently 'refreshed' it by simple installation of an in-dash Sony audio unit that provides integrated hands-free phone and a backup-cam ... the two main modern-tech features I missed by virtue of its 'dinosaur' status. A bonus being the aftermarket backup-cam can be located at the front of the box, an ideal situation for solo-hitching a 5.0TA ... and that's exactly the duty I'm looking forward to with my 'dinosaur'

In 2017 I bought the same truck, a 2004. I added the aftermarket stereo and backup camera. It only had 37000 miles on it. The first thing I did was change the plugs. I have meticulously maintained the truck with fluid changes and new brakes. At 81000 miles it is running perfect. Plenty powerful to haul the 21. At 150000miles I will do the timing set and change the overdrive solenoid, both well known failure points. I also used fluid film undercoating, not a spec of rust on the frame. I expect the truck will last another 10 years. Plus it’s paid for !
about 12 towing. But 40,000 bucks for a new truck buys lots of gas. Just change those plugs every 50,000 and transmission fluid every 40,000.

[Chotch]

Originally Posted by uthorns

I just recently purchased a 2014 F-150 XLT with a payload capacity of 1748# do you recommend the standard RAS or the heavy duty. The heavy duty seems to be what I'd need but would like some real world experience on the ride quality.

Jimmy

What makes you think you need anything? Try it, you can always add if there is a problem. My 2016 F150 has a payload of 1660 lbs. No suspension mods what so ever. Tows great, easily handles my 5.0TA and all the stuff we travel with.

[uthorns]

I've thought about also. If I install it before the trailer I'll never feel the difference. Wont know if it was money well spent or not and it's not a cheap item.

Jimmy

[Chotch]

Originally Posted by uthorns

I've thought about also. If I install it before the trailer I'll never feel the difference. Wont know if it was money well spent or not and it's not a cheap item.

Jimmy

And if you add it without needing it you have needlessly used up some of your payload capacity 😎

[emers382]

Originally Posted by Chotch

And if you add it without needing it you have needlessly used up some of your payload capacity 😎

Ours squats minimally and I've not even considered adding anything especially when my payload is nearly 2000 lb less than yours (1484). I made the mistake of not checking the door sticker before buying it and I cannot believe how much the XLT options added to the weight, things like the basically useless to me 400 watt inverter under the back seat.