I own a 03 F150 and purchased a 5ton dump trailer. I know the 5.4 comes in both the F150 and F250, but what are the major differences that I need to be concerned about when towing this trailer? Are the Transmissions different? I know my truck is rated to tow 8500lbs but if I exceed that, what can I expect.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
<o></o>
Thanks
R.Sykes3

 

light duty (150) vs. heavy duty (250), apples to oranges comparison.
If you stay under the towing capacity, you should not have any problems, but if you exceed it, you could be in for some big problems. You would be on the upper limits with your 150 and could have premature wear/tear depending on how much you tow. A 250 with a 5.4 would not have any power advantage, but the stronger frame, tranny, brakes, ect. would be able to handle more frequent towing. Of course, if you need to tow alot, you can't compare a 5.4 with a powerstroke diesel

 

Transmissions are different. Rear axle is different. Frame different. Gearing is probably different, but not necessarily. Brakes are different.

If you're going to be "usually" bumping the tow ratings on the F150, I'd recommend getting the 250.

I think the biggest concerns on the F150 would be first off the transmission. It's not as heavy duty and you would be pushing that towards failure sooner than a 250. You'd need a tranny cooler for sure. More frequent fluid changes.

I'd also be concerned about braking. Hopefully that dump trailer has an electric brake system. That would help with that issue.