I know I read this somewhere, but I was wondering how much the 18" Wheels cut into your Payload or Tow ratings.

I like the Lariats, but I need the highest payload possible and would rather have the 17" wheels. I'm not a big fan of the plastic fender moldings or painted bumper on the FX4 is why I'm asking.

Thanks,
Jon

 

18" decreases the capacity by 500#.

 

So, you replace these 18's with 17's and your back to the standard payload. Seems easy enough assuming you can find a dealer to do the switch without gouging you too much.

 

Yep, should be so with 17". However, 17" isn't an option for the Lariat. Maybe you dealer can accommodate you by changing them out, but IMO 17" looks a bit wimpy. For me, 9000->9400# is plenty.

Ford initially released 9500# rating, but just increased it to 9900#.

 

Anyone know why it be less for the 18"???

 

It basically changes the final ratio, making it harder for the engine to do it's job. Just like it's harder for a truck with 3.55 gears to tow the same weight as a truck w/ 3.73's.

 

9000 would still be plenty for the tow rating, but does it also cut into the payload rating, taking it down to 1000 lbs or so?

 

Hey, I'll trade you my 17"s for your 18"s.

 

The reason is probably not becuase of the change in effective gearing, more likely the tires are not designed for as high a tow rating, and possible the wheels as well. 275/65R18 is very close (1.5% larger) to the 265/70R17 that is common on the old body style, but maybe not the new one.

Are you planning to tow something in the 9000 pound range? I don't care what Ford says about the F-150, you should be looking at a Superduty. It isn't like they cost any more than a similarly equpped 2004 F-150. Better chance of rebates too. The payload penalty, I could understand. I recommend getting the Lariat with the LT tires as they will support more weight (higher load rating).