I am thinking of buying a travel trailer that will weigh loaded around 7000#. Ford says I can tow 7500# but after looking thru this Forum I am questioning if this would be wise. I would like to know if anybody has towed a trailer this weight and if so, were they happy with the engine and what kind of gas milage I might expect. I now tow a 2000# boat and get about 11 mpg when towing and I am very happy with the truck. Thanks in advance for any help on this matter. I had this in the Super Duty forum but this might be the proper place for it.

 

I had a '01 F-250 SC 4x4 5.4 auto 3.73. I pulled a small car (low frontal drag) on an open trailer, about 4500lbs. Towing in the Northeast hills I got between 8 and 10mpg.

My impressions; For me it was not enough motor/rear end for towing through the hills or longer distances. Around town it was fine. If I didnt try to make any time, I guess it was OK. A SuperChip helped.

How long of trips are you planning? Steepness of the hills? You would be at the limit of the truck, so you would have to take real easy.

My $0.02

I love my 2004 V10

 

With that kind of weight I would recommend either the V10 or the PSD. Personally, I would get the diesel, but that's personal preference. How many miles do you expect to tow each year? FYI, I've seen much higher mileage (about 14 MPG) towing as much as 12K# with the PSD. The 5.4 is a good engine, but for 7000 lbs you are much better off with the V10 or PSD.

To answer your question in short, yes you can tow it with your 5.4 but you'd be better off upgrading the truck if you plan on towing much.