Isn't that a Chevy?

 

My point of view won't differ much with those given here, but I think I can add a bit from my experiences too. I have towed a 6500# (wet) trailer with the 7700# truck setup. I was at the limit with people and gear (and likely a little over using GCVW numbers). The towing and braking were fine. I have to wonder how people get serious brake fade in the mountains. I have been on nearly every mountain pass that a RV should be on in the country and have never experienced and significant brake fade with this setup. If disk brakes in a truck are hot enough to fade significantly something is seriously (dangerously) wrong. My thought is improper trailer brake design or setup. Over a long trip the truck would average 13 mpg at 55 mpg. Try to move up to a 65 mph cruise and the mileage falls off to near 8 mpg.

I also recommend using a scale. It always suprises me how the weight adds up. IMHO this is really where the 75% rule comes in. Most people weigh in at 25% over what they think they have.

 

I agree. My first trip I went to Yosemite from Oregon. It was a very steep and winding downhill. Kept the truck in first gear and hardly ever touched the brakes. Tranny got up to about 210 deg. When leaving I went south to San Diego. I had no problems with power climbing out of Yosemite valley or going up the grapevine into L.A.. I always had more power than I could safely go. In fact on the grapevine I had to slow down for others.

I usually go about 70 when I am on a flat straight road. I.E. Interstate 8 from San Diego to Tombstone, Arizona I averaged 10 MPH.

Bob

 

If your rig is weighted more than it is rated for, your brakes can regardless. Ford's engineers have rated the trucks at their respective weight limits due to limiting factors, one being braking. There are other factors as well, but we won't get into that.

The story remains the same, stay under your max weight ratings, and you won't have anything to worry about accidents, tickets, or worse.

-Rich