So how much can I really pull?
 

So I'm in the market for a toy hauler so I can take my family around south-western US for the next 6 months or so and I am trying to figure out exactly what size trailer I can really pull. I have a 4X4 2012 Ford Expedition EL Limited with the HD Tow Package. Specs claim it can pull up to 8,700 lbs but I am hearing a bunch of mixed stuff from people about what is reality. I've been looking at 32' trailers with dry weight in the 6,500-7,000 lb range and GVRW of no more than 9,000 lb (goal to stay at or below 8,500 lb max). Some of the people in the trailer FB group are claiming that the 1/4 tons can't handle it but most of them are pulling with GM and I don't know squat about their set up. So what have y'all experienced? Can the Expy really pull the advertised 8,700 lbs on a true road trip? Mine has the:

• 5.4L SOHC V8
• 6 speed automatic
• 3.73 axle ratio
• HD Tow Package
  • Transmission cooler
  • Air shocks
  • 7 pin connector
  • Class IV tow hitch

Thanks everyone!

What engine do you have? Reply'ers will also need what rear ratio too.

I'd stick to around 7-8K range for the trailer GVW.

How much the Expy is rated for and how much you actually are comfortable towing are often two completely different things.

That 8700 lbs in a 16' double axle dump trailer is probably not too bad. That same 8700 lbs in a 32' travel trailer is a very different towing experience. 32' creates a lot of inertia and aero issues compared to that little dump trailer.

Once you add wife and kids and the stuff in the Expy, the tongue weight of the trailer, the Expy will likely be over gross.

Bottom line, assuming you are within guidelines and limits, towing a 32' travel trailer with an Expy might not be a good experience, especially for an extended trip or period of time.