I have 1997 F-150 XLT with the 4.2L, auto transmission and 3.55 LS gears. The manual says it can tow up to 5,800 lbs. I am going to install a bolt on hitch, but didn't know if I should install the hitch rated for 5,000 lbs or the one rated for 6,000. Was leaning towards Hidden Hitch, but didn't know if I should install the heavier rated one or if it would be a waste of money (even though not much of a price difference). Is it really feasible to tow 5,800 lbs in this truck?

Thanks for any advice you can give!

//Mike

 

No... I have a 06 4.6 with 3.55LS and it does not like pulling that much weight. And i know it has substantially more power than your 4.2. I would go with a class 3 hitch. Etrailer has them cheap and they ship out right away.

 

Almost every Class 3 revceiver is also rated as a class 4 when using a weight distributing hitch. I recommend using a WD hitch for regularly towing 4000+ pounds.

As for how much weight do you actually want to pull with your truck? The susepnsion is the same on all trucks with 2wd and likesisw all 4wd trucks. The only problem you'll have is power for hills and around town. Keep it under 5k pounds, and you should find it acceptable.

 

It will pull 5800# but don't expect to get anywhere quickly. The V6 is not that wimpy.

 

I would get the class 3 hitch from etrailer. They are cheap and ship fast.

 

Thank you all for the advice. Based on your response I purchased the Hidden Hitch 87183 (5000 lbs) and will install it tonight.