I am trying to figure the gross combined weight rating and the towing capacity for my 1994 F-150 LWB w/4.9L I-6, 5-speed manual, & 3.55 rear end. The manual says that the GCWR is something like 7800 lbs. I don't recall what the recommended trailer weight is, but it is much higher with an automatic transmission than with a manual. Why is that, and shouldn't they both be equal?

I'm trying to tow an auto-carrier type of trailer (don't know the weight of it yet) with a 2000 Jeep Wrangler loaded on it. No payload in the bed and it's just me in the truck. Do you think the truck is up to it?

 

I do quite a bit of what I consider light towing with a 4.9, m5od, 3.55 gears, and 31" tires. I get excellent durability towing a ton or so, it'll do 3500 lbs or so but is working hard. Anything much more than that, the engine will do it, but plan on replacing a lot of clutches and a transmission or two. As far as auto vs. manual, I think an auto is easier to back with, but is doggier on the road. For heavy hauling I like my old '79,460,c6,3/4 ton, it pulls like a tractor, and handles a trailer well(at about 8 mpg).It's all in how much you are going to pull that rig around, it sounds like you are in the 4500 lbs range, and if I were doing much long hauling with it I'd rather have a heavier truck/drivetrain.

 

it should be located on the ifo in your door, I had a 1989 Bronco 2 4x4 that pulled a 1986 4x4 ranger on a car trailer with "alot" of tongue weight and it pulled it fine, squated alot but the bumper held it... this dont really but it might, the Jeep would likley weigh around the same, and you got a fullsize so id say it would be ok but check your door for the info

2000 F150 Extended Cab 4x4 Sport, all Black
Head light covers
Tail light covers
"FordmotorSports" sticker in rear window
Stereo upgrade soon need some "thump"

 

I tow a 26'trailer with my '00 Expy, 4WD, 5.4L, 3.55 rear, auto tranny. Loaded weight of the trailer is 6200 lbs, within the tow rating of 6900#, and under the GCWR of the truck. Pulls well, but it's not a powerhouse. I can maintain 55 going up a decent grade, and get about 8 mpg doing 65 on level/rolling terrain.

Don