My truck is rated at 8300 towing capacity. I am looking at purchasing and towing a 5er with a gooseneck hitch that will weigh around 6500 loaded. I've read about changing my chip to add extra umph. Does anyone have any experience with chips or other ways to improve towing capacity?


99 F150 2wd 5.4 w/ 3.55 rear.

 

does your F-150 have the 7700 lbs payload package? If not you may want to consider a little more truck if routine towing of this trailer will be expected.

 

[updated:LAST EDITED ON 01-Apr-02 AT 04:10 PM (EST)]Been there, done that - it doesn't work - no matter how much money you throw at it, you'll still have a 1/2 ton truck that isn't meant to pull the big trailers. Take the money you're planning to invest in chips or whatever on your F-150, and trade it and the cash for a used F-250 with a 460 or a new truck with a V-10. You and your trailer will be glad you did.

 

Ditto,

A chip should not be used to increase towing capacity. That's not the intent of a chip.

 

Power adders won't help your towing "capacity" any. The capacity of the vehicle is the load carrying capability of that vehicle, meaning overall chasis strength, brakes, suspension, not just power train.
In other words, you could have a blown 460 stroker motor in your 1/2 ton, making 700 horse power at the wheels, but your capacity won't increase any more than what a stock 1/2 ton can carry.
Save your money and buy a bigger truck. There's no reason to risk your life, those of your passengers and the drivers out on the road with you by driving a rig where the trailer will be pulling the truck.
Later,
Ben

 

 

I tow a 23' Shasta fifth wheel which is around 5500lb. loaded. My truck is a 98 F-150 4X4,4.6L,auto,3.55 gears and short bed rated at 6600lbs capacity. I added a FIPK and 3" cat back exhaust and am very satisfied. I tow between Phoenix and northern Arizona regularly and have no problems. I shied away from the chip because of the premium fuel requirement which to me wasn't worth the possible gains.

 

Just keep in mind that these items may improve your towing "performance" they will NOT "increase" your towing capacity one once.