towing question

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Jul 15, 2008 | 10:29 AM

dhiggy69

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towing question

Hey everyone im new to this site and im a new ford driver. Im in the process of buying a 1997 F150 4.6L 4x4 off my cousin for a great price. He has the towing package on there already and I was wondering whats a safe weight (roughly) for towing with this truck? I have a pop-up camper that weighs 3500lbs when fully loaded i shouldn't have to worry right?

Jul 15, 2008 | 10:36 AM

BURNSTOUGHFORD

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From: Iowa

3500lbs is no sweat for these trucks... may i ask what transmission do you have? the 5 speed manuals are a bit weaker i hear and im not sure about how much towing you can do with them. But the 4r70w auto transmission is a great tranny...

Im not sure on the exact amout they are rated for, but i know that 5000 lbs are not a problem...

Jul 15, 2008 | 10:37 AM

KingRanchMan02

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From: Louisville, Kentucky

Congrats on your "new" truck and welcome to FTE dhiggy69!

That trailer should be no problem for the truck.

Jul 15, 2008 | 10:43 AM

dhiggy69

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thanks alot it is an automatic. I cant wait to get it. I wish it could have been an 03 super crew but the price was right on this one.

Jul 15, 2008 | 06:24 PM

LxMan1

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From: Louisville,Ky.

6000 would be about the max for your set-up, so 3500 is no sweat. I would suggest that you have trailer brakes. The wiring is already there for an electric controller.

Jul 15, 2008 | 09:01 PM

BURNSTOUGHFORD

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From: Iowa

where is the wiring at for an electric controller? I was pretty sure that there was one but not sure where at.

Thanks, hope this isn't considered a hijack... if it is im sorry.

Jul 16, 2008 | 10:11 AM

KingRanchMan02

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From: Louisville, Kentucky

There is a connector under the dash near the OBDII port for an electric brake controller to be plugged in. There is a wiring harness and two relays that need to be installed along with the controller. These are found in the glove box when the truck is new. If these are not in the glove box, then they are usually available at any trailer retailer. Good luck with your new ride!