The Truth About Pulling With a 99 F-150
Brad K.
My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
As you can surely tell by following my three messages, I don't have much
experience towing much of anything. I've pulled a few small trailers with
other people's vehicles, but never my own, so I have a lot to learn (and
have already learned a lot just by looking at trailers). My questions are
as follows:
1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
and weather)?
3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much shorter
if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer of that
size?
I appreciate any insight you folks can share.
Thank you.
Brad in Phoenix
George Miklas
hopefully be a help to you for a comparison's sake. Again, I cannot
talk specifically about your truck or its specific engine.
In article <uu134.90479$HU2.1...@news.rdc1.az.home.com>,
"Brad K." <ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot
> travel trailer. We've looked at the dry weights,
> carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said
> that out 1999 F-150 Super Cab will tow just about
> any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
> make doubly certain that my truck can handle a
> trailer like that. The truck has the 4.6 litre V-8
> and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
> package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16
> Yokohamas that are load rated, but I don't recall what
> the rating is. I believe the max towing capacity is
> stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
> As you can surely tell by following my three messages,
> I don't have much experience towing much of anything.
> I've pulled a few small trailers with other people's
> vehicles, but never my own, so I have a lot to learn
> (and have already learned a lot just by looking at
> trailers). My questions are as follows:
> 1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot
> trailer under most conditions?
I currently own a '95 E-150 and have pulled two TTs with it, a 25' and
a 22', but only for a test pull. I have a 300 cid I-6 engine, E4OD
transmission, and 3.55:1 differential. The main difference in our
vehicles (as I understand it) is that my straight six cylinder engine
(I-6) will develop more torque at low RPMs, and your engine (V-8) will
only develop torque with high RPMs. In my own opinion and since your
engine is a small V-8, I don't think it is big enough to pull a big
trailer long distances. I think with your engine, you will get
frustrated pulling in the mountain regions. I would like to suggest
that you go to your Ford dealer and ask the same questions as you have
asked to the RV dealers. I have a hunch that the Ford dealer will have
a different opinion about towing heavy trailers long distances.
> 2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer
> at typical interstate highway speeds
> (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods
> (such as a trip to southern California)
> without risking damage to the truck
> (assuming reasonable winds and weather)?
My van, pulling a 4300# trailer, pulled really well in 3rd gear at 60
mph, but failed when I put it into OD on the interstate. When I pulled
a 3000# trailer, it was fine at 65-70 MPH in OD most of the time. One
of my previous vans was an 84 with 460, C-6, 3.07:1. This 460 engine
was dynamite for pulling. 13 mpg was the best gas milage and 8 was the
worst with a 10,000 trailer and load hitched on the rear. As for your
truck, the optional 5.4L engine would be the best choice to pull a
trailer as you describe. My employer has a fleet of Ford E-350 vans,
some have 351W V-8 engines, some have 5.4L V-8, and one has the 6.8L V-
10. I find the 351 to be nothing more than a car engine, the 5.4 seems
that it would be a good compromise for pulling a trailer, but the 6.8
is no comparison to the now gone 460. The reason that I think that the
5.4L option in your truck would be better is ONLY becuase, it is the
biggest engine available for the F-150. If you were considering
trailer towing when buying your truck, then today the best engines are
the Ford/Navistar 7.3L Powerstroke diesel, and the Chevy 350. BTW:
The Chevy commercial 350 cid V-8 is now rated to 270 horsepower,
whereas the Ford V-10 is only rated to 260 horsepower. My personal
fuel economy comparision after driving each of these engines in van
bodies on long trips, and no cargo/passengers (I also listed them in
order of best pulling power at the top through worst pulling power at
the bottom):
Ford 7.3L V-8 Powerstroke diesel 300 HP 25 mpg,
Ford 460cid (7.5L) V-8 4V carb 245 HP 13 mpg,
Chevy Vortec 350cid (5.7L) V-8 270 HP 18 mpg,
Ford 300cid (4.9L) I-6 EFI 160 HP 20 mpg,
Ford Triton 6.8L V-8 260 HP 13 mpg,
Ford Triton 5.4L V-8 235 HP 15 mpg,
Ford 351Wcid (5.8L) V-8 EFI 210 HP 17 mpg
Ford 302cid (5.0L) V-8 EFI 190 HP 14 mpg
> 3). Should I expect the life of the engine
> and drivetrain to be much shorter
> if I pull a trailer of that size frequently
> (say, one weekend a month)?
This is more a matter of how long you operate it with the RPMs maxed
out. I don't think that pulling a trailer means that you are going to
ruin anything as long as you take into account that you are pulling a
trailer and accelerate accordingly. The mere fact that you will be
pulling a 25' TT once a month should not take any great toll on your
drivetrain.
> 4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet
> when pulling a trailer of that size?
Yes. If you are getting gas milage in the 20s now, you should expect
middle teens or even as low as 10 has been reported. Remember, you
will be pulling essentially an 8' x 8' wall down the road, and the wind
will be hitting that wall at the speed you are travelling. With the
trailer even more than without, driving 55 mph will show you a
considerable difference in gas milage over 65 and even 75.
> I appreciate any insight you folks can share.
> Thank you.
> Brad in Phoenix
Hope I didn't ramble too long...
George
--
George/Jodi Miklas, gospel harmonica player/singer
http://www.angelfire.com/pa/harmonicat/index.html
95 Ford/d'Elegant E-150
GeoMiklas on AIM, 45582054 on ICQ
Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/
Before you buy.
David Osborn
>Number three of three...
>
>My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
>looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
>trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
>Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
>make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
>has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
>package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
>rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
>capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
>
>As you can surely tell by following my three messages, I don't have much
>experience towing much of anything. I've pulled a few small trailers with
>other people's vehicles, but never my own, so I have a lot to learn (and
>have already learned a lot just by looking at trailers). My questions are
>as follows:
>
>1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
>
>2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
>speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
>California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
>and weather)?
>
>3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much shorter
>if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
>
>4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer of that
>size?
>
>I appreciate any insight you folks can share.
Brad,
You need to get Ford's towing guide. (A good dealer should have a copy.)
You need to be concerned about the truck's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
and Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). You need to know the truck's
actual gross weight, and the trailer's actual gross weight. (The gross weights
include all of everything that will be in the truck or trailer as you travel
with them.)
Once you get the numbers all "crunched," I'm fairly confident that you'll
need an F-250, and if you plan to tow much in the mountains you may really want
to spend even more and get the Powerstroke diesel.
Your F-150 will undoubtedly tow the trailer, but I have some doubts about
the "with ease" part!
- - - - -
David, N8DO; FMCA 147762
djosborn at aol dot com
fetz...@my-deja.com
"Brad K." <ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
>
> Brad in Phoenix
>
>
conditions?
A: On flat terrain you'll probably be OK (power-wise). Pulling through
the mountains or any hilly terrain will be slow going with the
engine/axle combination you have (4.6 is a small motor). You didn't say
if you have an extended cab or long bed. If you have a standard cab with
short bed, handling will be touchy at highway speeds, and you'll have a
propensity to encounter trailer sway. If you have an extended cab with
the long bed, handling will be much more stable. The longer the
wheelbase of your truck, the better. Personally, I would stay under 25
feet with a half-ton (F150) truck. I consider the suspension a little
too mushy for anything larger than that - just my opinion.
2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate
highway speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to
southern California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming
reasonable winds and weather)?
A: I wouldn't advise pulling any TT at 75 mph. I personally will not
exceed 70 pulling my 26' TT, and that's with a one-ton crew cab long
bed. I don't think you'll damage the truck, assuming you have the tow
package (larger radiator and transmission cooler), unless you're
screaming your engine trying to pull up a grade (I keep my RPM's below
4,000 pulling grades). And just a suggestion here: don't tow in
overdrive if the transmission "hunts" at all.
3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much
shorter if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a
month)?
A: Pulling a heavy load will surely put more stress, wear, and tear on
you engine and drivetrain. You will need to step up the service
intervals for engine oil, differential oil & trans fluid changes. Your
owners manual should outline this. Life might be shortened a little, but
it's hard to say by how much. Depends on driving habits, load, and
service intervals.
4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer
of that size?
A: Yes. Mine drops by about 4 mpg when towing. "Your milage may vary".
Hope this helps.
-Fetz
Will Sill
> 1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
Not safely or comfortably. You've been lied to, and you ain't the first!
> 2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
> speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
> California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
> and weather)?
IMO *nobody* should be pulling a trailer 75mph on a public highway,
but if you tried and didn't crash or get arested, the Ford would soon croak.
> 3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much
shorter
> if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
Yes.
> 4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer of
that
> size?
Is the pope Catholic?
PLEASE go down to the dealer, duck the lying sales geek and get a copy
of Ford's trailering guide. Read it. Study the fine print, Then realize
they
are going top put the best possible face on what their trucks can do.
Once you've made some realistic calculations about the true towing capacity
(find the GCWR and subtract the LOADED weight of the truck), I urge you
to limit the *loaded* weight of any trailer to about 3/4 of that figure.
Length is
irrelevant.
An F-150 with 3.55 gears is simply not going to give you a safe, comfortable
towing combination.
Will Sill, Unofficial Mayor of Sill Hill
"The difference between a Wise Person and a Wise Guy
is usually in the eye of the beholder" Anon
But what about you? " [Jesus] asked; "Who
do you say that I am? Matt 16:15
Donald J. Dickson
<ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
> looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
> Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
> make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
> has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
> package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
> rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
> capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
>
I had a Ford sales manager tell me he was not happy with the performance
of his 4.6 v-8 demo truck hauling his 5000 pound boat and trailer. This
was some time ago and the power rating of the engine has been raised but
it's rated towing capacity at that time was 7000 pounds. His message based
on his personal experience was to get the larger engine and probably go to
at least the regular duty 2500 when towing in the 5000-6000 pound actual
load range.
--
Don Dickson
Remove first "x" from xcx666 to reply by email.
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
<ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer.
> We've
> looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150
> Super
Remember the following trueism (which it sounds like you suspect),
Sales Geeks will lie if they can get away with it.
> rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
> capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
OK, it -might- be that, but, do you have the TOW package, if not, it's
much lower. Do you have the R70 or R100 tranny? If the R70, it's not as
good a tow vehicle as the R100. Also I think (?) the rating might be
lower on the R70 based one (which is a Mazda trany also used in the
Ranger, Mazda PU, etc)
> 1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
Probably not, but it's hard to tell WEIGHT is more important then
length. The max rating (for a properly equiped) F150 is in the 7000 to
7500 lb trailer. Only most experts (even people like me) reccomend
towing below that rating (say 75 to 90%). My guess is that a 27 ft
trailer would exceed that 7000 lbs
> 2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
> speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
> California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable
> winds
> and weather)?
Certainly not. Please TRFM (read your manual), it specifies that max
towing speed is 65 mph (at least it does with my 99 F250SD with the V10)
> 3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much
> shorter
> if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
Increase service, to about 1/2 of reccomended (change oil at 3000,
etc), this will handle much the wear problems
> 4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer of
> that
> size?
Yup, mine drops 3 to 4 mpg
OK, now for the background. I own a 23 ft 5er that weighs in (loaded)
at 5000 lbs (so it should be lighter then your proposed 25-27 ft) I
towed it one entire summer with a 92 F150 (supercab/longbed) with the
EFI 5L V8 (which turns more power then yours). I found that I could
manage a comfortable 60 mph on the flat, any significant grade (5 %)
would drop the speed to 45 to 50 mph. A steep grade (7 %) would drop the
speed to 35 mph. As you might have figured from the earlier parts of my
reply, I am selling the F150 as I have a F250 with a larger engine.
IMHO the new Ford small block is only OK for towing the very smallest
of 5er trailers (21 ft and 4500 lbs).
But you are on the right track with looking used, best to not pay the
big $$ when you are starting out. Most people find they have bought the
wrong rig the first time, often the second too. Then also, things change
as you gain experience with RVing.
--
Ralph Lindberg personal email n7...@amsat.org
RV and Camping FAQ http://kendaco.telebyte.com/rlindber/rv
If Windows is the answer I would really like to know what the question is
GBinNC
<ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
>1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
And what do you propose to do about the conditions under which it
won't?
>2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
>speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
>California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
>and weather)?
Even if you COULD pull it at 75 mph, what makes you think you can
control it at that speed or stop it in a hurry if you need to (which
you will someday)? I sure hope I'm not in front of you when you try...
In other words, the pulling ability isn't nearly as important as the
controlling and stopping ability. Please reconsider, for your own
safety and that of others on the road. This is ESPECIALLY important
given your lack of towing experience.
BTW, I am truly glad you're asking these questions beforehand. Too bad
so many others don't.
GB in NC
[For e-mail reply, please remove the last two letters from "yahoooo."]
bill horne
>
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
> looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
> make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
> has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
> package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
> capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
>
> experience towing much of anything. I've pulled a few small trailers with
> other people's vehicles, but never my own, so I have a lot to learn (and
> have already learned a lot just by looking at trailers). My questions are
> as follows:
>
>
> speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
> California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
> and weather)?
>
> if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
>
> size?
>
>
> Thank you.
>
> Brad in Phoenix
I offer the following for your consideration:
I towed a 14-footer with an 83 Chev 5L halfton. Passing power was
woefully inadequate. Western hills reduced my speed to that of a
casually strolling armadillo. Driving at 70-75 was no problem, but it
took a long time to get up there. Solo, 18 mpg. Towing, 14.5.
Now I tow a 17-footer with a 96 5.7L Chev halfton. Passing power is
excellent. Eastern hills towing, and Western hills solo suggest that I'm
not going to be unhappy towing in Western hills. Driving 70-75 is no
problem, and it gets there real quick. Gas mpg, until recently was 15
solo and 10 towing. Now, for some reason, I'm getting 18 solo, with
towing mpg currently unknown.
Neither of the trucks is specifically geared for towing. Standard rear
axle in both.
I got by with the 5L for 5 years with the 14-footer, and for 8 years
with the 17-footer, but if I were to do it again, the 5L would have been
a 5.7L.
If I were to get a 25-27 foot TT, I would want something stronger than
the 5.7L halfton. I wouldn't even momentarily consider extensive towing
of my 17-footer with a 4.6L, much less a 25-27 footer. I probably want
more power than I need, but I want it nevertheless.
--
bill
Theory don't mean squat if it don't work.
drt-rdr
very disappointed with the power of the motor.
I tow a 23 ft trailer with a 5.2 l dodge motor and I wouldn't think of
towing anything heavier that that, so i would think the 4.7 ford would
be kind of lacking. I would get something with a bigger motor.
Nck
* Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet's Discussion Network *
The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet - Free!
Tom D
With a F-150 you better stick closer to a 25 or smaller travel trailer.
Also I wouldn't suggest towing a travel trailer at 75 mph, things can happen
real quick when you get a gust of wind. I used to tow a 22 ft. travel
trailer with a C1500 with V6 and found it to be under powered. The wear and
tear on a 1/2 ton truck is definitely going to be more than a comparable 3/4
ton. And yes you will see a drastic drop in fuel mileage. When towing
expect around 10mpg, depending on terrain.
Brad K. <ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote in message
news:uu134.90479$HU2.1...@news.rdc1.az.home.com...
Geezer
underpowered. I would not try anything larger. geez
Eric A. Roellig
>
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
> looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
> Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
> make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
> has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
> package and Class III hitch.
Note: Even if the truck is "rated" at 7000lbs, a class III hitch is only
good for 5000lbs.
The dry weight doesn't do you much good. You need to figure out what the
"loaded ready-for-fun" weight is. Add in water (don't forget the 6 or 10
gallons in the water heater!), batteries, propane, canned goods, refer
full, cookware & dishes, clothes, toys (child and adult where
applicable!!), books/TV and other bad weather items, outdoor gear,
etc...
It adds up in a BIG hurry.
Don't forget the items you will carry >IN< the truck itself. The usual
tow rating is for a basically stripped down truck and a standard 160lb
or so driver. Subract from the tow rating a full tank of gas, passenger,
hitch hardware, spare tire, etc...
Also, a lot of manufacturers "fib" on the dry weight. It might be the
weight before "options" were added. The options may be things you
wouldn't expect to be optional...
--
Eric A. Roellig
TGreen
I tow a 25' Arctic Fox travel trailer with my 1993 F150 4x4 truck. I have
the 5.8L V-8 engine, and I am using a 'Tow-right' stabilizing hitch.
The Tow rating on my truck is the same as yours, 7500lbs. My trailer GVWR
is 7000 lbs; 5000lbs empty.
On my last trip I weighed my trailer at 6200lbs. The truck will tow at
highway speeds, and I have no problem with control. I do pass 18-Wheelers
on the passes, but I sure wish I had more power; The Engine definitely works
hard getting me to the camp site.
The wife has agreed to purchasing a 2003 F250 Power stroke (she's got this
10-year thing), until then I will just have to 'baby' my F150 along.
I can't speak for Arizona as I tow my trailer up in Washington state, but I
do notice an increase in Engine Temperature when climbing grades. I would
expect to see engine temperature increases just crusing while in the desert.
Gas Mileage? I get 16MPG Unloaded all Highway, 14mpg usually, and 8mpg
pulling the trailer.
If I had to do it all over again, (and if you're concerned about being easy
on your truck) I would choose a 'lite' trailer model in the 4000lb range.
Good Luck,
TGreen
Brad K. wrote in message ...
>Number three of three...
>
>My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
>looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
>trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
>Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
>make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The
truck
>has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
Mark Kovalsky
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie <rlin...@kendaco.telebyte.com> wrote in
message news:rlindber-00F7C9.05585807121999@[206.63.63.71]...
> OK, it -might- be that, but, do you have the TOW package, if not, it's
> much lower. Do you have the R70 or R100 tranny? If the R70, it's not as
> good a tow vehicle as the R100. Also I think (?) the rating might be
> lower on the R70 based one (which is a Mazda trany also used in the
> Ranger, Mazda PU, etc)
No. The two automatics in the F150 are the 4R70W and the 4R100.
Only the 4R70W is available with the 4.6L. Neither is related to any
Mazda transmission in any way.
The manual transmission in a F150 is a Mazda, but not the same one
that is used in the smaller trucks.
R Lindberg / E Winnie
> No. The two automatics in the F150 are the 4R70W and the 4R100.
> Only the 4R70W is available with the 4.6L. Neither is related to any
> Mazda transmission in any way.
>
> The manual transmission in a F150 is a Mazda, but not the same one
> that is used in the smaller trucks.
Thanks Mark, you would know,
-----
Ralph Lindberg N7BSN <n7...@amsat.org> ICQ#5988954
RV and Camping FAQ <http://kendaco.telebyte.net/rlindber/rv/>
Remember, it's the same computer geeks that gave us the problem in the
first place that shortened "Year2000" into Y2K
RichA
<ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
>Number three of three...
>
>My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
>looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
>trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
>Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
>make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
>has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
>package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
>rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
>capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
Make sure you get a weight distributing hitch and sway control, better
yet a Hensley or Pull rite hitch no matter how you go.
>
>As you can surely tell by following my three messages, I don't have much
>experience towing much of anything. I've pulled a few small trailers with
>other people's vehicles, but never my own, so I have a lot to learn (and
>have already learned a lot just by looking at trailers). My questions are
>as follows:
>
>1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
Will it pull it? Yes. Will it pull it easily and safely, No..IMO the
engine is to small to manage pulling/merging into traffic easily. It
will strain to get that much weight moving. Any grades are going to
feel like you threw an anchor out when you start up them.
>
>2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
>speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
>California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
>and weather)?
Yes, but you shouldn't be going that fast towing anyway. The engine
will be capable of getting the TT moving at that speed eventually, may
take awhile. The bigger problem is stopping.. Also if an auto
transmission you will find it shifting out of overdrive on any small
grades and will quickly learn not to use overdrive. No overdrive
means higher revs harder engine work and less gas mileage. Better off
to keep max speed in the 60-65 MPH range IMO.
>
>3). Should I expect the life of the engine and drivetrain to be much shorter
>if I pull a trailer of that size frequently (say, one weekend a month)?
Yes, especially if you don't perform maintenance more frequently.
>
>4). Should I expect my gas mileage to plummet when pulling a trailer of that
>size?
Yes, amount depends on how hard you push the truck, guess would be 30
to 50 percent lower mileage.
>
>I appreciate any insight you folks can share.
>
>Thank you.
>
>Brad in Phoenix
>
Towed 25 ft. TT 6000 lb with Dodge 5.2 L engine 4.10 rear,,Auto Trans.
A little bigger then yours. Rated about the same as yours. Was told
by Dodge Dealer and RV Dealer truck would pull the trailer no problem.
It did pull the trailer, but I was not happy. Truck would tow the
trailer, but always at high revs and not in overdrive. Hills were a
killer as was merging into traffic. Gas mileage dropped way down.
Figured it wouldn't be long before something would happen to the truck
working it that hard. Got a Diesel, IMO the only thing to tow with.
Good luck
RichA
RichA
"We Get To Soon Olde and To Late Smart"
Erich Coiner
>
>
> I appreciate any insight you folks can share.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Brad in Phoenix
There is no replacement for displacement when it comes to towing.
Get the BIGGEST engine they offer. That is the 5.4L in the F150.
Also get 4.10 gears. You won't be sorry.
I have an F250 truck with a 460. This truck has 4.10's. The pulling
power compared to my older Ford with 3.55's and the same engine is
amazing. The smaller engines need to rev higher to pull well too.
3.55 are the wrong gear choice for that truck.
I would look closely at the F250 light duty truck. See if it has bigger
brakes than the F150. If it does that would be a better towing choice.
If they are the same sized brakes then you really should be looking at
the F250 Super dutys. Then you can get the 6.8L V-10.
Erich
Dan P. Beckner
>Number three of three...
>
>My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
>looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
We have pulled a number of TT's with various tow vehicles. You can never have
too long a tow vehicle or two big an engine. For the past year we towed a 30'
Aerolite that was listed at 3820 lbs dry. On the scale loaded it weighed 5217
lbs. We pull it with a 1999 Ford E250 with the 5.4 L Triton V8 with a 3.73 rear
end. That combination was very driver friendly. At the end of the season we
traded the Aerolite for a Jayco 31'11" slide out that is 6780 lbs dry. On the
scale it hits 7600 lbs. For flat land towing the 5.4 Liter with the 3.73 rear
end works great. But, in the Eastern Mountains (Adirondacks) it doesn't have
much pep on the hills.
I would recommend you definitely get a bigger truck if you are going to pull
5-6000 lbs.
Dan P. Beckner
dbec...@twcny.rr.com
Hugh Darling
capacity is doubled(?)
Hugh
Eric A. Roellig wrote in message
<384D4085...@email.mot.com>...
snipped>
>Note: Even if the truck is "rated" at 7000lbs, a class III
hitch is only
>good for 5000lbs.
>
snipped>--
>Eric A. Roellig
Mark Kovalsky
Hugh Darling <hug...@dreamscape.com> wrote in message
news:s4rio0...@corp.supernews.com...
> Eric, isn't the 5,000 lbs without equalizing bars. With, tow
> capacity is doubled(?)
> Hugh
Equalizing bars do nothing to increase the tow rating. They
make the truck level with the trailer attached, but they do
not help pull the rig up a grade.
Mark
Hugh Darling
was only good for 5,000 lbs towing. Nothing was mentioned
about the vehicle rating. The hitch is rated for 5,000 lbs
standard, 10,000 lbs with equalizing bars.The class III
hitch will most certainly be good for more than 5,000
trailer weight.
Hugh
Mark Kovalsky wrote in message
<82kljk$gle$1...@newssvr03-int.news.prodigy.com>...
George Miklas
"Eric A. Roellig" <CCE...@email.mot.com> wrote:
> [snip]
>
> Note: Even if the truck is "rated" at 7000lbs, a class III hitch is
only
> good for 5000lbs.
I belive that this doubles when you use a weight distribution hitch.
> Also, a lot of manufacturers "fib" on the dry weight. It might be the
> weight before "options" were added. The options may be things you
> wouldn't expect to be optional...
Since '98, trailers have a "manufactured weight" sticker inside the
trailer which posts the UVW with all accessories at time its built.
George
> --
> Eric A. Roellig
>
--
George/Jodi Miklas, gospel harmonica player/singer
http://www.angelfire.com/pa/harmonicat/index.html
95 Ford/d'Elegant E-150
GeoMiklas on AIM, 45582054 on ICQ
Ronald Shugan
----------
In article <uu134.90479$HU2.1...@news.rdc1.az.home.com>, "Brad K."
<ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
> Number three of three...
>
> My wife and I are considering buying a 25 to 27 foot travel trailer. We've
> looked at the dry weights, carrying capacities and GVWR's of a number of
> trailers. Every dealer we've talked to has said that out 1999 F-150 Super
> Cab will tow just about any trailer of that size with ease. I just want to
> make doubly certain that my truck can handle a trailer like that. The truck
> has the 4.6 litre V-8 and the 3.55 rear-end with factory-installed tow
> package and Class III hitch. I'm running 235/75R16 Yokohamas that are load
> rated, but I don't recall what the rating is. I believe the max towing
> capacity is stated as 7500 pounds for this particular vehicle.
I have a copy of the 1999 Ford Towing Guide and they give the following
ratings for your unit
4.6L SEFI V8, 3.55 Rear, 16 inch tires, Super cab with Auto tranny--GCVR
11,500 and tow rating is 6900 for a 4x2 and 6600 for a 4x4
If the tranny is a manual, GCVR is 7800, and tow rating is 3200 for the 4x2
and 2900 for the 4x4
Brad K.
end of the gene pool.
We've got a lot of long, straight, flat interstates here in AZ, so if I can
realistically do 65 to 70 MPH with a trailer in tow, I don't see that as
being unsafe provided I give myself plenty of room between vehicles. I
wouldn't dream of attempting that on grades, curves, mountain roads, etc.
Brad
GBinNC <GBi...@yahoooo.com> wrote in message
news:384d1bcb...@netnews.worldnet.att.net...
> On Tue, 07 Dec 1999 06:07:22 GMT, "Brad K."
> <ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
>
> >1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
> And what do you propose to do about the conditions under which it
> won't?
>
> >2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
> >speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
> >California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable
winds
> >and weather)?
Brad K.
buying a trailer that I won't be able to tow anywhere interesting.
Brad
drt-rdr <sperduto...@dnb.com.invalid> wrote in message
news:1415c574...@usw-ex0102-015.remarq.com...
Brad K.
an option. But I appreciate the advice.
Brad
Erich Coiner <erich_...@NOSPAMhp.com> wrote in message
news:384D7C...@NOSPAMhp.com...
Brad K.
My "detective" work turned up some of the things mentioned here and I took
what I learned and did what I generally do with this kind of a situation--I
assumed that most of what I was told was only about 75% true. People only
pass on what they know, and if what they know isn't reliable in the first
place... They may mean well, but the information is still wrong. That's
why I generally turn to newsgroups. That's the quickest way I know of to
get the best information.
I understand that any time you ask a vehicle to do more work for longer
periods that you're going to wear it out faster, especially if you don't
give it more attention than normal. Living in Phoenix I already service my
trucks every 3,000 miles, so that won't be a stretch. I pretty much knew
that gas mileage would drop somewhere between 30 to 50 percent. I just
wanted to make sure it wouldn't get ridiculously low.
As for the trailer, I do believe we'll be looking for nothing larger than a
23 footer, and probably closer to a 21 footer, in the sub-6,000 pound range.
I'm also going to double-check the axle ratio on my truck and make sure I
know exactly what I have before I buy (was going to do that anyway, but now
I'm even more curious to know). Getting a different truck isn't an option,
but it's one that I'll remember when time comes to trade this one in. My
other truck is a 4X4 Mazda with a 3.0 liter, so I doubt if it could tow me
out of the sack on a Sunday morning... *laugh*
I appreciate all the good advice and information. Thanks again folks.
Brad
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
<erich_...@NOSPAMhp.com> wrote:
> I would look closely at the F250 light duty truck. See if it has bigger
> brakes than the F150.
No longer made, sorry
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
<harmo...@pathway.net> wrote:
>
> Since '98, trailers have a "manufactured weight" sticker inside the
> trailer which posts the UVW with all accessories at time its built.
Sorry George, but not exactly. It's they use the same sticker on all
units, so they can't cover every option. Also it's a voluntary standard.
Lastly not every firm is following it at that. But it is an improvement
over the old system.
Eric A. Roellig
that specifically stated that it was not to be used with an equalizing
hitch. I thought that class IV hitches were 5000lbs without equalizing
hitches & 10,000lbs with. Shows what I know I guess...
--
Eric A. Roellig
Erich Coiner
>
> As I mentioned in a reply to another post, getting a different truck isn't
> an option. But I appreciate the advice.
>
> Brad
>
Erich
Rich Tobinski
The F-250 came in two styles in 1999. And I'm told that is still the
case for the 2000 model year. The Light Duty F-250, patterned after the
F-150 in styling and the F-250 Super Duty like yours. I see those F-250
LD's all the time and the capabilities fall in between the F-250 SD and
the F-150 LD
Best Regards
Rich
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie wrote:
>
> In article <384D7C...@NOSPAMhp.com>, Erich Coiner
> <erich_...@NOSPAMhp.com> wrote:
>
> > I would look closely at the F250 light duty truck. See if it has bigger
> > brakes than the F150.
> No longer made, sorry
>
Adrianne
I don't know if anyone mentioned it to you (I didn't read
the entire thread) but since you live in Phoenix, please be
sure to have any additional cooling devices you can added
to the truck. We have a big Dodge V10 with beefed up
transmission cooler and gigantic radiator with a ram that
pushes extra air over the radiator. We think those are very
very important too as we pull a 29 foot Jayco 5th wheel
trailer. (We started out in Phoenix too). As you know,
Phoenix is unusually hard on vehicles anyway because of the
heat. Now head out in late June pulling 7000 lbs in 115+
degree heat up toward Flag. Need I say more?
* Sent from AltaVista http://www.altavista.com Where you can also find related Web Pages, Images, Audios, Videos, News, and Shopping. Smart is Beautiful
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
<richard.d...@nospam.boeing.com> wrote:
> Ralph,
>
> The F-250 came in two styles in 1999. And I'm told that is still the
> case for the 2000 model year. The Light Duty F-250, patterned after the
> F-150 in styling and the F-250 Super Duty like yours. I see those F-250
> LD's all the time and the capabilities fall in between the F-250 SD and
> the F-150 LD
Rich per Ford (and the Ford truck owners list) and the Kelly Blue Book
new Truck guide the LD250 was discontinued in 2000.
For more info see
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/kw.kc.np?kbb;730877&98345;pic&162&MAKE011P
http://www.ford.com/default.asp?pageid=114
Rich
I didn't know that - Thank-you Ralph.
Best Regards
Rich
George Miklas
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie <rlin...@kendaco.telebyte.com> wrote:
> In article <82lfma$vms$1...@nnrp1.deja.com>, George Miklas
> <harmo...@pathway.net> wrote:
>
> >
> > Since '98, trailers have a "manufactured weight" sticker inside the
> > trailer which posts the UVW with all accessories at time its built.
>
> Sorry George, but not exactly. It's they use the same sticker on all
> units, so they can't cover every option. Also it's a voluntary
standard.
> Lastly not every firm is following it at that. But it is an
improvement
> over the old system.
I'm sorry to hear that. I thought it was a regulation or law.
George
> --
> Ralph Lindberg personal email n7...@amsat.org
> RV and Camping FAQ http://kendaco.telebyte.com/rlindber/rv
> If Windows is the answer I would really like to know what the
question is
>
--
Bobby
>On Tue, 07 Dec 1999 06:07:22 GMT, "Brad K."
><ad...@knight-protector.com> wrote:
>
>>1). Will my F-150 handle a 25 to 27 foot trailer under most conditions?
>And what do you propose to do about the conditions under which it
>won't?
>
>>2). Will I be able to pull such a trailer at typical interstate highway
>>speeds (75 mph in Arizone) for long periods (such as a trip to southern
>>California) without risking damage to the truck (assuming reasonable winds
>>and weather)?
>Even if you COULD pull it at 75 mph, what makes you think you can
>control it at that speed or stop it in a hurry if you need to (which
>you will someday)? I sure hope I'm not in front of you when you try...
>
>In other words, the pulling ability isn't nearly as important as the
>controlling and stopping ability. Please reconsider, for your own
>safety and that of others on the road. This is ESPECIALLY important
>given your lack of towing experience.
>
>BTW, I am truly glad you're asking these questions beforehand. Too bad
>so many others don't.
>
>GB in NC
>
>[For e-mail reply, please remove the last two letters from "yahoooo."]
>
Coming back from Atlanta yesterday I was passed by an f350 duelly pulling
a gooseneck car trailer with 3 midsize cars aboard. He was on my tail at
80+. I went to pull away and he matched my speed up to 95 or so.
I was impressed that the truck would do it. I was not impressed with
the driver FOR doing it. -- Bobby
==============================================================
==== bobby-b.home.mindspring.com Ham Radio, Linux etc =====
==============================================================
89 F350 XLT, Diesel, Crewcab, Auto, Dually, Western Hauler Bed
93 27' Hornet fifth wheel
86 16' Sero Scotty TT
91 Ford Aerostar Van
Donald J. Dickson
& Ellen Winnie <rlin...@kendaco.telebyte.com> wrote:
> In article <384EE560...@nospam.boeing.com>, Rich Tobinski
> <richard.d...@nospam.boeing.com> wrote:
>
> > Ralph,
> >
> > The F-250 came in two styles in 1999. And I'm told that is still the
> > case for the 2000 model year. The Light Duty F-250, patterned after the
> > F-150 in styling and the F-250 Super Duty like yours. I see those F-250
> > LD's all the time and the capabilities fall in between the F-250 SD and
> > the F-150 LD
>
> Rich per Ford (and the Ford truck owners list) and the Kelly Blue Book
> new Truck guide the LD250 was discontinued in 2000.
>
Yes but they have added a HD option to the F-150 to replace the LD F-250.
I don't know what it includes
--
Don Dickson
Remove first "x" from xcx666 to reply by email.
Dfrenchy
>I don't know what it includes
>
It's a $1,200 option and includes stronger wheels, brakes, frame, suspension,
etc. It's called the 7,700 lb payload package. It also is called "snowplow
ready" by some dealers.
Rich Tobinski
Them Ford guys are sharp arn't they? ;>)
Rich
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
>
> Yes but they have added a HD option to the F-150 to replace the LD F-250.
> I don't know what it includes
Maybe that's a Canadian only thing, I just looked that the Ford web site
and there is no mention of that model (I just went through the design a
truck)
Ralph Lindberg & Ellen Winnie
> In article <xcx666-0912...@ppp14123.on.bellglobal.com>,
> xcx...@freenet.carleton.ca (Donald J. Dickson) wrote:
>
>
> >
> > Yes but they have added a HD option to the F-150 to replace the LD
> > F-250.
> > I don't know what it includes
>
>
> Maybe that's a Canadian only thing, I just looked that the Ford web site
> and there is no mention of that model (I just went through the design a
> truck)
I hate it when I eat crow...
Found it further in the options section, certainly looks like the 'old'
F250LD...
Donald J. Dickson
& Ellen Winnie <rlin...@kendaco.telebyte.com> wrote:
> In article <rlindber-0A380F.18385509121999@[206.63.63.71]>, Ralph
> Lindberg & Ellen Winnie <rlin...@kendaco.telebyte.com> wrote:
>
> > In article <xcx666-0912...@ppp14123.on.bellglobal.com>,
> > xcx...@freenet.carleton.ca (Donald J. Dickson) wrote:
> >
> >
> > >
> > > Yes but they have added a HD option to the F-150 to replace the LD
> > > F-250.
> > > I don't know what it includes
> >
> >
> > Maybe that's a Canadian only thing, I just looked that the Ford web site
> > and there is no mention of that model (I just went through the design a
> > truck)
>
> I hate it when I eat crow...
>
> Found it further in the options section, certainly looks like the 'old'
> F250LD...
It looks like a pretty good deal to me if you can get the heavy duty
chassis on any F-150 configuration. When GM goes to the equivalent LD 3/4
ton they add in other options and the jump fron 1/2 ton Chev or GMC to
light duty 3/4 ton is about $4000 Can. I don't know if the price mentioned
by another person was in $US or $Can.
Mark Wisheart
the trailer in January of this year from La Mesa (I got a good deal,
paid low blue book for a rig that showed as new). My truck was a 1998
GMC K1500 Excab Z-71, 350 Vortec, 3.73 re, tow package etc. Great
Truck!
Sales geek told me that he sold lots of these trailers new to folks
with same truck. Yeh, gobs of unhappy customers.
Dry weight on my trailer is supposedly 5100 lbs, but with water,
propane and stuff it tips the scale at over 6300 lbs, and pulling this
trailer with that truck was miserable. Not to mention unsafe. I my
first outing which was to Rocky Point the truck did fine and I thought
all would be ok. Got about 12 mpg and it pulled and accelerated fine.
Next outinjg was to North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Now mind you from
Phoenix 1500 ft asl to Flagstaff 7000 ft asl is a very hilly road, I
got 7.8 mpg and at times was only going 30 mph. From Lee's Ferry to
Jacob Lake it is again very steep road and at times I could only
muster 20 mph for several miles at a time.
Again this summer to Colorado (Silverton) pulled Coal Bank Hill at 20
and smoked the transmission. The burning smell was aweful and this
was during a cold hard rain. Can't imagine what it would have been
like on a hot sunny day.
Braking with the 1/2 ton truck was scary also.
Now own an F-250 Powerstroke. Would not recommend any less than a 3/4
truck with minimum 3.73 and preferable 4.10 re gear ratio.
My $.00 worth.
hugh
believe the 350 with the 3.73 wouldn't pull faster if you dropped to low.
If you kept pulling in 2nd, the convertor is going to heat up the tranny
fluid. Also, if you had the smaller of the two transmissions available,
it's only rated for 8,600 lbs. I always force downshift on hills. Mileage
sounds right for pulling up hill for long distances. I know people with
the 2 wheel drive version, same gearing, trailer weight etc. and they have
not experienced any problems. The elevations you were on though, probably
had a lot to do with the problems. I wonder how much effect the higher
elevations (with less dense air), coupled with the lower speeds, had to do
with cooling the transmission and engine. Sorry to hear of your bad
experience.
Hugh
George Miklas
kw5...@goodnet.com (Mark Wisheart) wrote:
> My truck was a 1998 GMC K1500 Excab Z-71,
> 350 Vortec, 3.73 re, tow package etc. Great
> Truck!
> ...pulled Coal Bank Hill at 20 and smoked the transmission.
<snip>
> Braking with the 1/2 ton truck was scary also.
> Now own an F-250 Powerstroke. Would not recommend any
> less than a 3/4 truck with minimum 3.73 and preferable
> 4.10 re gear ratio.
Mark,
Your K1500 has the small transmission. The 3500 has a much larger and
more HD tranny which is more suited for pulling. I owned a 96 Chevy
G3500 with the 350 vortec and it was great. I agree with you on your
3/4 ton recommendation, as it has bigger brakes. For just a couple
dollars more you can get a 1 ton, which will have a full-floating
axle. You now have quite a truck with that F-250 Powerstroke, but I
know that you paid alot for it too.
George