Pulling a trailer
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Joined: Aug 2003
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From: Elmvale
Pulling a trailer
We are looking to purchase a 5th wheel or travel trailer and wonder how a 2002 F150 SC XLT 4WD, V8 Triton will hold up with pulling one. We are looking at a 21 - 23 foot trailer. Anyone have any experience with this?
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I would recommend a light model travel trailer. A brake controller is a must as is a weight distribution hitch with sway controller. A light 21 to 23 foot TT is going to be around 3300 to 4000 lbs. dry depending on options. A standard (non light) can be several hundred punds heavier. Usually one of the cabinet doors has the weight with the options sticker on the inside. Don't take a salesman's or private party seller's word on weight. Most are grossly innacurate (on the low side) on what they tell you. As a rule of thumb, you want to be 10% under your towing limit of your 2002 F150. This includes the trailer weight and the stuff you put in it and the bodies in the truck itself. It all adds up quick and many don't even consider some of these factors when towing. They are usually the ones jacknifed on the highway. When towing, you want to do it safely to protect you and your passengers and everyone else on the road in another vehicle.
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Joined: Aug 2003
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From: Elmvale
Pulling a trailer
Thanks Sea Lion. We did look at some today and have pretty much decided to go with a 5th wheel lite. There are lots of older trailers out there but of course they're much too heavy for what we want. Will probably check out the trailer show in Toronto in February.
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Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Phenix City, AL
Gotta be careful with a 5th and a 1/2 ton truck. Very easy to exceed GVWR and / or GCVWR with the weight a 5th can put in it.
The SC and 4x4 already add weight to the truck and reduce what you can legally tow. Check your numbers and make sure you're straight before you purchase something that, if you get in an accident could make you at fault if overloaded.
Just some food for thought.
The SC and 4x4 already add weight to the truck and reduce what you can legally tow. Check your numbers and make sure you're straight before you purchase something that, if you get in an accident could make you at fault if overloaded.
Just some food for thought.
Last edited by BFR250SD; Sep 21, 2005 at 06:28 AM.
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