Well, I was always under the impression that an F150 had a 1/2 ton capacity and F250 had 3/4 ton etc. but after reading many threads it has become clear that this is not true especially with the 7700 package.

Does anyone know what the payload capacity is for a '97 F150 4.6L 4X4 (long bed)? The door jam reads 6000 GVWR with front/rear GAWR at 3200lb. Unfortunately the vehicle weight is not listed...

Aside from the 7700 package, did Ford offer any other payload upgrades.

 

Other than the 7700 which replaced the 250LD the only payload differences were minor and incidental, typically 100 pounds and based on equipment differences, ie. 4x4 vs 4x2 long box super cab vs regular cab flare side and so on. Your payload is prolly about 1700lb. I have a 99 brochure and it lists long box 4x4 regular cab payloads and GVWR as follows:
4.2L 1615 6000
4.6L 1790 6250
5.4L 1675 6300

The payload is greater than 1000 lb to accomodate a couple of adults and gas. And of course to match or beat what the competition posts.