Hi guys,

I have a 2003 F-150 with a 4.6L V8 and an axle code of 19 (the internet claims this means a rear axle ratio of 3.55, Non-LS). The door jam sticker says GVWR = 6050 lbs. The manual says the GCWR for a 4.6 liter V8 with a 3.55 rear axle ratio is 11,500 lbs, and the maximum towed trailer weight is 6600lb. I wanted to buy a 5000lb dry weight travel trailer (5500lb with the hitch). Here are my questions:

(1) Am I correct that the axle code "19" on the door jam sticker means a rear axle ratio of 3.55 Non-LS?

(2) Does Non-LS mean poorer towing performance, especially in turns, as compared to limited slip?

(3) What is the difference between GVWR and GCWR? Is the number on the door jam sticker (GVWR) how much weight I can carry + tow? If so, why is that number different from the manual's trailer weight guidance?

(4) How heavy of a trailer can I really haul?

These numbers confuse me, because I am new to all of this.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

Malcolm

 

1) I think so but am not 100%, someone else wil be
2)no LS will have no impact on towing unless you are going to be in mud or snow
3)GVWR is Gross vehicle weight rating, that is the maximum weight the truck can handle by itself. GCWR is Gross combined weight rating, that is the maximum total weight the truck can handle when you add a trailers weight to the trucks, you subtract the trucks actual weight from the GCWR to get the allowable trailer weight. The truck would be around 5K lbs by itself.
4) Not knowing what terrain you are towing in I can't say for sure but I wouldn't want to tow more than around 5Klbs with that setup.

 

Thanks, galaxie641!

I appreciate the info. I will be towing this trailer primarily between Denver and the Texas panhandle, with some trips to New Mexico. It will be mostly flat driving with long, relatively gentle grades...... little or no mud/snow.

Malcolm

 

Malcom,

I tow a TT with about the same weight as your vehicle with no problems....however my setup is different, and I bought my truck new and optioned it out to maximum towing capacity. Everything from engine to tire size.............03 Supercrew. I imagine you will be close within your rating, but it is better to have less weight than the rated capacity in my opinion. I'm sure someone here can give you the exact yes or no, but it sounds like with the type of towing you do you'll be ok. You should invest, if you haven't already, in a good load distirbuting hitch, brake, and anti sway controls... They are worth the investment. Also 500 lbs for a hitch is high. Unless I misread your post.......weight distribution for your gear will be most important also.

 

Thank you Jeff!