New to the forum. SUV towing questions
First off, thanks for this forum. I have learned a ton lurking here. Everyone seems very friendly and helpful, so I figure no harm in putting my particular scenario out there. I have been towi...
Forum Discussion
PDX.Zs wrote:
Ford calls the curb weight at about 5,500 lbs.
From the Ford book...
4X4. 5.4L with optional trailer tow package
GCWR 14,500 Trailer weight 0–8,600
Weight Distribution
***These are hitch ratings only; actual vehicle ratings are dependent on
engine, transmission and axle combinations.***
Weight carrying
Max trailer weight 6,000 Max tounge weight 600
Weight distributing
Max trailer weight 8,950 Max tounge weight 895
What do you all think?
Forget about the 8950 max tow weight, it's not a realistic number. You will exceed payload and GVWR on tow vehicle, before you get close to 8950 trailer weight. Also, towing a travel trailer is a different animal, compared to a car hauler. It has much more wind resistance on all sides.
Add the weight of your family, plus the weight of any cargo you may put in / or on the tow vehicle, plus 100 lbs for a WD hitch, plus the 5500 lbs curb weight. Subtract that total weight, from your GVWR, as printed on drivers door post sticker. The result will be your payload available for trailer tongue weight.
Divide available payload by .12, and that will tell you max loaded trailer weight. That is the point where you will be maxed out on GVWR and payload. If you want a comfort zone, subtract 150 - 200 lbs from the available payload, prior to calculating max trailer weight.
Example:
Lets say your GVWR is 7200 lbs.
Your curb weight plus cargo, plus family, plus WD hitch, add up to 6400 lbs.
Available payload would be 800 lbs.
800 lbs divided by .12 = loaded trailer weight should not exceed 6666 lbs. This is the point where GVWR and payload are maxed out.
For comfort zone - subtract 200 from that 800 available payload.
600 lbs divided by .12 = 5000 lbs loaded trailer weight.
You will need to decide how much comfort zone is good for you. I can tell you, from experience, towing at or near max weight, is not a pleasant ride, even on a nice day. Windy days can be very unpleasant.
