My 2006 Lincoln Mark LT (an F-150 in a tuxedo) has a maximum Hitch Weight of 990 lbs (1680 lbs payload, 8900 lbs towing capacity). I currently tow a 5100 lbs trailer that has a 750 lbs hitch weight.

I'm moving up to a larger trailer that will have an approximate weight of 6300 lbs and hitch weight of 940 lbs. All still within the specs of my 2006 truck, but I'm approaching the max on the hitch weight.

On the Ford website, a 2014 F-150 4x2 SuperCab, 145 in wheelbase, 3.5L Ecoboost V-6, with 3.73 rear end has a tow capacity of 11300. But no mention of the max hitch weight.

I've been considering a new truck either this year or next. Does anyone have one in this combination or close to it? Can you tell me what is stamped on the hitch for maximum hitch weight?

Thanks,

Randy

 

1130. That's a max tow package and the max hitch weight is 10% of the max tow rating (which you will never reach without exceeding some other rating such as truck GVWR or payload).

If the trailer weighs 6300#, a 940# hitch weight is too much, the trailer would need to be loaded more in the rear. Ideal hitch weight is 12% of the gross weight.

 

Thanks for the reply. A trailer towing safety class I attended a few years ago provided these guidelines on hitch weight as a % of GVW:

• 12% to 15% is good
• 15% to 20% is better
• But never exceed the hitch rating

I believe the reasoning was that the more load forward, the better resistance to sway and better control of the trailer. I have always shot for around 15%, but 12% sounds reasonable. I'll work on my load distribution.

 

if you are seriously considering upgrading for towing purposes then you should take a good long look at this guide
http://www.ford.com/resources/ford/g...F150_Sep11.pdf

This lists all the specs for hitch weight and towing capacity.

The numbers all change with different options so its good to review the whole thing (or print it off and take it with you when you go look at trucks)

 

Agreed, never exceed hitch ratings.

Interesting that someone is teaching these numbers. Although semi-true there needs to be more explanation.
You should never put 20% tongue weight on a bumper pull. Your balance will be too far forward and make the trailer want to fish tail.
Now, 20% should also be the standard tongue weight on an in-bed mount hitch.

Standard tongue load for a bumper pull should be as close to 10% as possible. On a 6300# BP trailer your tongue weight should be 630 lbs. You may need to move you load a lot more than you thought.

Since you are over 500# tongue you should also have a weight distribution hitch to be able to carry that load.

Hope this helps. I've been teaching towing safety classes for private functions and at University/Colleges for over 10 years.