I've finally decided to try camping (grand-kids) and need an opinion. Everything I own is old but in good shape. The trailer I'm looking at has a weight of just under 5,000 (Keystone Springdale 25ft.). My truck is a 75 F-100, 390, 4sp., 4.11. I had upgraded the rear springs years ago with a spring set from a F-250. Also put disc brakes on the front. Do you think I have enough truck to pull this size camper without problems? Hitch will have the distribution and sway control. I know I need a new truck but this truck has been well cared for and in excellent condition. Thanks for any input.

 

I'd be concerned about things like metal fatigue and frame integrity on something that old.

 

Guess i never thought of that, always worried about power, etc. On the good side it is a western truck that has never had any rust issues (body wise) and is not winter driven since I've owned it. Thanks for the input, certainly something to consider.

 

Get under your truck and inspect the frame for cracks and/or major rust, That will cause a huge problem when your towing that load.

 

A 390 with those gears has plenty of power - and I assume your 4 speed is granny low?

 

The 390 is a good motor. Back up to the camper, hook it up, and start pulling. You will be fine.

 

I wish I had the old 390, you will be fine. Don't forget it's a Ford!!

 

It should have the old 9" rear end too... Make sure it has a decent frame mounted hitch and you'll have to wire for the lights and the trailer brake of course.. Yeah, those old 390's have a lot of grunt too.. Just leaks oil like a sieve!

Miitch

 

Id like to see pics of this rig

 

X2! Those old Ford trucks are by far my favorite body style. I'd love to find one in decent shape one day and fix'er up.

 

I pulled a 25 ft travel trailer with my '78 F-150 Ranger SC. 351W with a C6 and 3.50 rear axle. I made 3 trips towing from South Texas to Durango Colorado and many trips all over Texas. I did not start towing until it had 135,000 miles. I finally retired her after 20 years and 276,000 miles. The only fatigue I ever experienced was my rear end, not the truck's.

 

I'll post a couple pictures tomorrow. Forgot to mention it even has a hone overdrive unit atttached to the 9". Although I know I won't be using the overdrive in towing, it is a nice feature. Drops the RPM's at 60 from 3,000 to about 1900.

 

Well, I have a photo but for the life of me I can't get it to post!!

 

I'm not familiar with that overdrive's ratios, but with some split shifting that may a great feature. 2nd gear and OD, 3rd and OD could come in handy, especially on steep grades. You may be able to run in OD when conditions are favorable.

 

tater,

There should be other posts on how to post a pic. The easiest way is to setup a "Gallery" right here in F150online and from there you can upload your pics and post them up.

Mitch