I have an 03 F-150 4X4 with the 4.2 (V-6cyl), 5 spd, and 3.55 rear. The same truck with an automatic is rated at pulling 5000 lbs gvw, mine with the 5 spd is rated @ pulling 3250 lbs gvw. why the difference? I also have a travel trailer that is 5000 lbs. What can I do to make that 4.2 gain more low end torque??? How costly would it be for me to change the gears to 3.75, and would that make a difference? Any suggestions???

 

Any suggestions? I have an 03 F-150 4X4 with the 4.2 (V-6cyl), 5 spd, and 3.55 rear. The same truck with an automatic is rated at pulling 5000 lbs gvw, mine with the 5 spd is rated @ pulling 3250 lbs gvw. Why the difference? I also have a travel trailer that is 5000 lbs. What can I do to make that 4.2 gain more low end torque??? It pulls the weight ok on level ground but the hills are murder. How costly would it be for me to change the gears to 3.75, and would that make a difference? Any suggestions???

 

You will probably get better responses if you start a new thread rather than posting a new question in an existing thread.

 

Even though it has been recommended you go to the proper forum, I'll chime in.

You'll be fine with a manual tranny IF you know what you are doing. Don't be a maniac with the clutch.

Ford is just saving their hind ends, that's all. Can you blame them though?

I would never just go from 3.55 to 3.73's, but to 4.10s at least.

Either way, your truck can pull 5,000 TOTAL lb's just fine. The clutch can only roast itself, it does not have a way to sense weight being pulled.

 

Thanks for the reply. I kinda' figured that was the case. Do you think that a power chip and K&N intake and filter would help some? What about duel exhaust? I love the truck and would not trade for anything.

 

Hay Paladin,
In a nutshell, the reason for the lower towing rating is the clutch. Automatics have an added adavatage of torque multiplication via the torque converter, which helps getting the load going, but the biggest draw back to the 4.2 hooked up through a manual drivetrain is the clutch. Mind you, if you know how to work with the manual setup, you can do OK, in most situations. STarting off going up a steep hill with 5K lbs behind might be a challenge, but with proper pedal work, it could probably be accomplished without too much negative outcome.
Also, I have read the M5OD is not a super strong transmission, but I have never heard here of guys losing a transmission due to towing. I think it does fine unless you go overboard.
There is not much you can do to help the 4.2 gain lowend torque.
The 4.2 makes decent power, but makes it at a little higher rpm (as is the case with many modern engines).
If you plan to continue to tow 5,000 lbs with the 4.2, then changing rearend gears might be helpful. I do not know the cost.
Other option? Sell it and buy a 5.4.
(Personaly, I don't see the 4.6 V8 being that much ahead of the 4.2 V6)

 

From what I've read you can do a host of things. Headers duals/cat back and a chip and K&N, but also look at what is practiable. I have3 a 3inch flow master 50 series exhaust (single) and a K&N filter, I just got 21 mpg in town with this set up, I have the 4.2 w/ 3.55 rears. And a automatic. I noticed right away a freer exhaust from the added 1/2 inch. It feels like a V-8 really and I haven't even cracked down on it yet, haven't needed too. So I'd say it's all about your application.
BTW my exhaust comes right off my cats all the way back.

 

Thread split and moved to proper forum.