what to tow?
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New User
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1
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what to tow?
I don't know anything about trailering but need to. I drive a standard cab 98' F-150, 5.4, 3:55 with a tow package. Given my truck's weight, I can pull up to 8,000 lbs. of trailer minus the weight of liquids, occupants, and payload, which leaves me with about 6300 lbs of absolute maximum trailer weight. The two trailers I'm looking at are a 23' tt (4900 lbs.) and a 22' 5er (5400 lbs.). While both trailers are within pull limits of the truck, do I really want to pull that much with my truck? And, given the weight differential, if I go with one, is the 4900 lb. tt the better choice even though a 5er is a safer drive?
Freshman User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
From: Southeastern CT
what to tow?
Hi,
I don't think those numbers are correct for an F150.
I've pulled a 6300# TT with a 97 F150 xtra cab 4X4 with a tow package but the engine had to work and the brakes were not heavy duty enough to stop the TT when electric brakes decided to hiccup. Also, from what I've learned here, there should be a cooling system on the tranny.
I also think the truck may be too light to handle the 5th wheel.
Stay tuned!! You'll get more answers in a minute.
Steve
I don't think those numbers are correct for an F150.
I've pulled a 6300# TT with a 97 F150 xtra cab 4X4 with a tow package but the engine had to work and the brakes were not heavy duty enough to stop the TT when electric brakes decided to hiccup. Also, from what I've learned here, there should be a cooling system on the tranny.
I also think the truck may be too light to handle the 5th wheel.
Stay tuned!! You'll get more answers in a minute.
Steve
Moderator
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 22,436
Likes: 17
From: Louisville,Ky.
what to tow?
I tow about 5300lbs with mine. It tows fine. I have a 24' car trailer(not 5th wheel) that only has brakes on the rear axle. The 4 wheel disc and ABS samed me from flattening a yardsaler who decided at the last second to stop to turn left so that they wouldn't miss a bargain. I had the trailer brake turned down because I was almost home. Anyway, If you are going to tow alot, I would get the lighter one, and make sure that your truck has the tow package. If not, definately add a good tranny cooler!!.
Jimmy
Jimmy
