op wrote:
QUESTIONS:
We’ve been told that we can put air bags in rear wheel wells to help overcome any sagging issues.
Correct however the bags can be added anytime. Its possible your trucks may not need them.
What about drum brakes vs disk brakes on the trailer? Is one better than the other as far as stopping capabilities?
IMO its not that big of a deal. I've towed GN trailer up to 22k GVWR with drum brakes. No issues.
Are wider tires an important factor in stopping?
IMO ...no, as wide tires can slip quicker in a wet road condition. Having hauled for a living I'm not a fan of wide base tires on a truck and especially a trailer.
What is the most critical factor in determining towing capacity? If stopping is the most critical factor then disk brakes on trailer should be a factor in determining the weight of 5vr that one can pull, correct?
I wouldn't say its the most critical but trailers brake sizes are determined by the size of the axle ie;
tandem 7k axles = 14000 lbs of braking performance regardless of type of brakes.
Ford has the built in engine brake …Is adding after-market Jake Brake to this Ford F350 effective?
Ford doesn't use a engine brake for the 6.7 in the LDTs but rather they use the VVT (variable vane turbo technology). The turbo acts as the exhaust brake.
No one makes a engine brake for the 6.7 diesel. Google engine brake vs exhaust brake and you will see there is a big difference.
In other words, are there other considerations and options that would increase our towing capacity?
Ford says the truck can tow a 15900 lb trailer. The truck sure won't have any issue pulling a 15900 lb trailer but as you mention it will be limited by the 7000 RAWR.
You have a very heavy 3820 rear unladin. Thats heavier than most DRW trucks. Anyhow ...7000 RAWR minus 3820 leaves your truck with 3180 lb left for a max payload.
Fords published tow rating aren't just for us folks that want to pull a 5th wheel "RV" trailer that may have a 20 percent pin weight. Ford says for GN and 5th wheel trailers. This includes all trailer types ...not just a camper.
