I recently bought a 2001 F150 Supercrew Lariat that has a 2" hitch receiver. I've noticed that the bumper has a hole for a hitch ball as well, so I'm not sure if this is the factory tow package or an aftermarket. I've read that if it's the factory package then it's a Class III but I've noticed that the factory tow package on the '06s is a Class IV

If it's aftermarket then how can I tell if it's a Class III or a Class IV?

Is there a way to determine from the VIN what other towing related things were installed at the factory (like tranny cooler)? If not will it be obvious to me (an admitted n00bie) if I crawl under the truck and look?

Clueless

 

Most Class 3 hitches (OEM and aftermarket) are class 3 and 4 rated, but class 4 required a weight distrubuting device. This is also true of the 2006 tow package, not rated over 5000 pounds unless you use a WD hitch.

I'd look for 2 aux oil coolers in front of the radiotor. If you have two, then you have the OEM tow package.

 

No tranny coolers are installed, so it must be aftermarket. Which raises the question: Do I need to add them? right now all I tow are a popup camper with a dry weight of approx 1400 pounds and a utility trailer with a lawn tractor on it. In a year or so we'll be upgrading to a full blown travel trailer (probably a 26-28 foot unit). do I need to even worry about a tranny cooler now ? I've read that a transmission needs some heat to run well. If that's tru I don't want to put one in now unless I need it. If I need one now, I want to put one in that'll meet me needs in a year or two.

Why am I so full of questions? It's like being around a toddler - answer 1 question, get 5 more

 

You don't need a tranny cooler to tow 2k.
If it was me I'd wait.
Buy the trailer then upgrade the truck.

Things change:
Delay on trailer purchase or that truck may no longer be in the picture come trailer time for any variety of reasons.

I towed 2k with 4banger, no nothing, ball in bumper for 14 years.