I've done a lot of towing with a different vehicle, but just got 98XLT F150 (3dr). I have the 4.2 auto with an axle code of 18 which should give me a 3.08. There is no hitch, only 4 pin connector, but it does have a trans-cooler. My trailer is a dual axle w/elec brakes and a 1500# dry weight. Total weight loaded should be about 3750-4000#. I live in Florida (max elevation 90ft) and only tow under 55mph and less than 50 miles. What hitch, brake controller, 6/7pin connector etc do you recommend?

 

I believe I would go to a reputable RV dealer and have them fix you up with what you need. I'd go with the 7 pin connector. Are you sure you have a tranny cooler and your're not looking at the power steering cooler? Seems strange you would have a tranny cooler with a 3:08 and a 4 pin connector.

 

The Heavy Duty Electrical/Cooling package was seperate from the Towing package. The Towing package included it but, you could order it without Towing. I don't know why anybody would but, it was possible.

 

Thanks for the input. I was wondering about the cooler as well. I followed the lines and they do go from the trans to the aux radiator and back, but I could'nt understand why it existed as a stock item either. I also have a/c,6 disc cd, bedliner, and updated gauge cluster as OE, but cloth non-power seats. I guess whoever ordered it got exactly what they wanted.

BTHW: I have read a lot of posts and gotten "good stuff" from a lot of them, but I am disturbed by posts saying "I can tow at 70 all day long" etc. There are a number of good sites like boatus and rvsafety that have state laws for towing and it is suprising to note the differences in requirements. Towing a trailer over 60 mph isn't legal in 16 states, and trailer brakes are the law in many over 2500#. The officer may not be stopping you just to admire your rig. Tow safe!

 

Did you notice in the towing table that changing the gear from 3.08 to 3.55 increases towing capacity by 1000 lbs?

Sounds like it would reduce wear and tear by 18%.

 

After I get the rig set up I am going to take a test run and take it to a local scale as well. If I am under 4000# and it goes well I'll leave it as is, but if not I will probably make mods including the rear-end switch. Changing out the 3.08 is a lot cheaper than the repairs from beating up the drivetrain!

 

Here's how to upgrade from a 4-way flat connector to a 7-pin connector using all Ford parts. This is for a 2000 , but it should work.

7-pin conversion

 

You know we can only help the 'phone man' right up to but not past the bumper of his truck. If wants wants help inside the truck, he has to purchase 'inside the truck protection'!

 

Actually; I was planning to get the wire all messed up and then complain to the Interstate Commerce Commission that Ford should repair it free because they were negligent in selling a truck to such an absolute moron such as myself.

Thanks for the 7 pin conversion JimB