I know, I know, owning a F150 1/2 ton is tough when there is plenty of people who squawk at owning one. I was fortunate to find a deal I couldn't pass up earlier this year. Actually, I have always wanted a truck and this deal was too sweet so I bought it mainly because of my desire for a truck. The added benefit was to take away from having my wife's commuter from doing all the hauling. We have a 2 horse non living quarter trailer with a tack room up front BP. with the 2 horse and tack its about 5000lbs and pulls with no problem. Now here come the part that made the truck better, in my eyes. The truck is 2010 4x4 STX and is equipped with 4.6 3V V8, not so stout but OK engine. A 3.73 rear end and with 145in wheel base. The trailer towing capacity is around 9300lb. We are looking to get a 2 or 3 horse GN with living quarters. Should I be concerned about driving in and around ohio, indiana and maybe the northern part of Kentucky hauling a GN at close to max trailer weight limit.

 

If towing capacity on ye truck is 9,000 lbs., it will probably be fine. Weight distributing hitch, anti sway bars, trailer brakes, and don't go too fast, but, it sounds like you might be a good candidate for an Ecoboost.

 

This is my first F150, always owned Super Duties. My needs have changed quite a bit in the last few years so it was an easy decision for me. Personally, this is the nicest, most comfortable truck I've ever owned. I've had the truck for a month and already I've got 3 bets going that I keep the truck for 3yrs. Last week, my cousin called my truck "cute" and asked me where the rest of it is...lol

 

You may want to consider, too, for significantly better drivability while towing and hauling the StableLoad suspension upgrade product.
Many people use these even before going to airbags for stability and handling, it will pre-engage the lower leaf spring overload and reduce sway and sag.
It is an easy install, and you can disengage in seconds while not towing or hauling for your stock ride.
StableLoads
Here're some FTE links for in use reviews:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/12...d-install.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/12...ableloads.html

 

Personally, for towing at or near the max weight, I'd hold out for a 5.4 or even a 5.0 or Ecoboost. The 4.6 3v is a great little motor for light duty hauling an occasional towing, but I think you may be disappointed with the lack of torque when towing that much weight.

 

My experience with my dad's 2010 was dramatically the opposite. My dad's is just about identical to the OP's with 3.73 gears and the 3V 4.6L engine. What it's missing down low it makes up in spades with a very powerful midrange and top end. If it was pared with the old 4R75E I would agree with you, but the nice 4.17:1 first gear means there's really no point where I felt underpowered with a trailer.

I think it's a great setup for what the OP is looking for.

 

Not exactly sure what pin weight you will be looking at with that gooseneck trailer but the weight of my non-LQ 4 horse gooseneck squatted the wife's f150 entirely too much. You will need some sort of assistance to control the rear end sag.