check the msrp for both. the HD can be had for many thousands less . . . money that could be invested in such things as better seats (recaro) and xm with wheel mounted controls

as for the tow rating, I think the 'weak link' in the HD is a combination of things. Things like Ford's knowledge that Ford owners tend to always Ford trucks as the workhorses they are and overload them. Things like a SuperCharged engines need for high octane fuel and vulerability to detonation, especially when towing a heavy load. Sever damage could come pretty quick if crappy fuel is used while towing 8k and Ford likily doesn't want to encourage use of these supercharged trucks as heavy duty tow vvehicals (that's what the SuperDuty is for) Also, those 20's the HD rides on can't contribute much to the load rating . . . just look at the load rating on the tires (GY Eagle) that must be reduced 10% for use on a pick-up or suv.


With the small amount of towing you mention, I wouldn't worry about going with the HD unless you: 1. expect to get a bigger boat soon, 2. expect to tow mush greater distances that will include lots of hilly or moutainous roads, 3. just don't care for the HD logo al over the truck (these items can be removed and sold for a nice sum on ebay but you would be killing your resale value)