I don't have a owner's manual from ford so I don't have the recommeded maximum tow wieghts. That doesn't really matter much since I have larger tires than stonk anyhow. I was reading in the Chilton's manual that to figure the maximum tow weight you take the horsepower figure and multiply it by 35 and subtract the vehicle weight and weight of all luggage and people. I thought the horsepower rating was good for determinng top speed but as far as acceleration the torque rating was a better basis. If this is true, wouldn't the torque figure in the calculation somewhere. The second question I have is the Chilton goes on to say that this figure can be raised by using a smaller axle ratio. What are thewy figuring you are using for an axle ratio and does anyone have a more accurate way of determining the max you can tow by figuring in the axle ratio, or is the owners manual about the only way to determine this?

 

The most you would want to tow is 7k lbs. This is assuming you have the 5.4, 3.55 gears, tow package, auto, 16" wheels.

I'm sure you could get away with more, but it'll be unsafe. Anymore, and you should get a Super Duty.

I think my rig is rated for 13k total combined vehicle weight. That's the weight of everything, truck, trailer, gear, gas, water, ice chests, etc.

 

Try the Ford web site. With an F150, 7K might be pushing it unless like Mitch said, you have some "stuff". The Expy has a higher tow capacity with 17" wheels over the 16" as well.

 

1depd
If you tell us about your truck we might be able to give you a better idea of what you can tow. What are you planning on towing?

DF

 

Some stuff about my truck. it's a '96 F-150 with a 4.9l and meager 3.08 rear end. The tires are slightly larger than stock 31" instead of the 29" stock tires. Once I decide on a boat I'll either buy a new truck or change the rearend in this one. The main determining factor in buying a new truck is whether this one will be able to pull it.