Fifth Wheel Towing Questions
 

I'm upgrading both my truck and RV at this time. Everyome that I ask (RV Dealer & Ford Dealer) I get different answers. I have purchased a Cougar Fifth Wheel. The manufactures Rep and the product information states that the trailer is designed to be pulled with a 1/2 truck. Trailer UVW 6650 and GVWR 8340. I have found a 1999 F150 XLT 4x4 with 5.4 that i really like. I really want a F150 I spend much of my day in the truck I feel the F-150 ride is much better that the F250.. Does anyone have any experience with the this type of set up???

Review this table.

It's my understanding that most trailer manufacturers understate the UVW somewhat. Many people find they are loading the trailer to it's GVWR (or more). I say that to remind you that your trailer's GVWR is greater than the MAX allowed by Ford for a 4x4 F150. I'd also like to point out that the MAX weight rating for these trucks does not include fuel, passengers, or "stuff". Everything you put in the truck reduces the amount you can safely tow.


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1997 4x4 Expedition- 4.6L, true dual exhaust w/Ravin DI/DO, K&N air filter, SuperChip, airbox mods, Edelbrock shocks, 285/75R16 BFG ATs, 2000 F150 "XLT" wheels, 4.10 gears, Auburn LS, Clarion In-dash CD player, Smitty Bilt push bars and nerf bars.

2000 4x4 F250 SD XLT SuperCab SWB- 6.8L, Offroad Pkg, Camper Pkg, 4.30LS, Tape & CD player, Remote Keyless Entry, Sliding back glass, tinted windows, 265/75R16 OWL tires, Smittybilt nerf bars & Line-X bedliner.

NoMo's site

Look into a truck bigger than the F-150 to tow a fifth-wheel trailer with impunity.

Not sure if this post is too late but I own a 98 F150 with the 4.2 and 5 spd manual reg cab. I've pulled a 25' 5th wheel with this setup and know that the 5.4 will tow your 5th fine but the pin weight may be your downfall. The pin weight of my 5th was 1000# and most 5ths have more than that but even at 1000# and carrying the normal goodies associated with camping it was too much weight on the truck. The rear end sagged too much for my liking, maybe there are aftermarket products to beef up the springs but then would you lose the good ride you wanted in the first place. I would say with the weight of your trailer you are pretty much at the max of the 150's towing ability and would consider a 250, personally I've ridden in one with the diesel and found it rode well. Good luck in your quest.