Ron Gratz wrote:
Golden_HVAC wrote:
So what you are asking is why does Ford limit the conventional trailers to only 18,500 pounds?
I think it has to do with the ability of the hitch system, rather than the possibility that the transmission, brakes, rear axle or other truck systems will be overloaded by towing a conventional trailer that is 19,000 pounds.
Based on page 25 of the 2014 Ford Towing Guide, it appears that the maximum allowable conventional trailer weight depends on "Hitch Receiver Capacity" which depends on rear axle, engine, and wheelbase:
12,500-lb. – F-250/350 SRW – (N/A with 6.7L diesel with 156", 158" and 172" wheelbases)
14,000-lb. – F-250/350 SRW with 6.7L diesel engine – (156", 158" and 172" wheelbases only)
15,000-lb. – F-350 DRW – (except F-350 DRW with 6.7L diesel engine/172" wheelbase)
18,500-lb. – F-350 DRW w/6.7L diesel engine – (172" wheelbase only)
18,500-lb. – F-450
Maximum allowable 5er pin weight, OTOH, seems to correlate closely with GCWR minus Curb Weight.
Ron
Then there is all the fine print/caveats which makes tow rating numbers magical.
Maximum trailer weights in pounds for properly equipped vehicles with no cargo
May vary depending on model, trim and/or power-train.
Maximum Loaded Trailer Weight assumes a towing vehicle with any mandatory options, no cargo, tongue load of 10-15 (conventional
trailer) or king pin weight of 15-25% (fifth-wheel trailer), and driver only (150 pounds).
Weight of additional options, passengers, cargo and hitch must be deducted from this weight.Real numbers are GVWR, Axle Ratings, Max Tire Load Ratings and 'actual' payload number. Figure out those numbers then you KNOW what your tow vehicle is really capable of towing within it's ratings.
