Extended Mirrors For 1/2 ton

If your ordering new...yes order the Dumbo ears. If you are buying used, like the poster above, then don't let the lack of towing mirrors change your mind. They are easy to add...either OEM or aftermarket solutions.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

When I had my Tundra I started with CIPA mirrors but found them a pain to take on/off relative to just sliding factory ones out so got a set of OEM towing mirrors on Ebay for cheap that made a big difference. I'd say yes you need/want them but don't rule out an otherwise good truck on the lot if that is all it is missing. Look around for a deal on factory towing mirrors you can swap out. I changed mine pretty quick and even offset part of the cost by selling the original ones.

I can see just fine with stock F-150 mirrors on a year model 2014.
Corners, off the side and remarkably, back down the roadway.

They have the ability to move in and out and up and down according to personal preference.

I used the McKesh style clamp on mirrors on my half ton. I really liked them and they did the job well even if it was a bit of a pain to get them set up each trip. Even though they're not as good as the factory installed towing mirrors (I really like the ones on my new 3/4 ton Silverado!) I'd still recommend them. I think even if I were going to buy a 1/2 ton now, I'd stick with the clamp on mirrors. I don't tow all the time so it's nice to get rid of those large mirrors when not towing a trailer. The stock towing mirrors (at least GM) are a pretty big sight obstruction and take some getting used to for every day driving.

TrailerTraveler1 wrote:
A friend has the F150 EcoBoost with the factory towing mirrors - we only wish our Tundra had them, but we bought used, so se la vie. We use Grand Aero add on mirrors. They're OK, but our friend's factory tow mirrors give him more view. Regular mirrors on our truck don't provide as much view as we'd like.

Look at the aftermarket ones from 1aauto.com for your Tundra. They are exactly like factory ( I believe it's even the same manufacturer). Come in chrome too if you want. Side by side I couldn't tell the difference. Easy to install for 1/3 the price.

APT wrote:
Need - no. Desirable - absolutely for towing an 8' wide RV. But there are other solutions that involve other forms of compromise. Universal and vehicle specific clip/clamp on options are cheaper, but are generally installed/removed each towing experience. The mirror area is also smaller than the OEM towing mirrors.

Need? Yes! It's the law. You are required to see a person standing at the rear corner of your trailer. If you can't with stock mirrors you must use some form of tow mirror.

If the truck doesn't come with them (most don't) you can order factory ones ($$$) or cheaper aftermarket products. Lots to choose from.

Need - no. Desirable - absolutely for towing an 8' wide RV. But there are other solutions that involve other forms of compromise. Universal and vehicle specific clip/clamp on options are cheaper, but are generally installed/removed each towing experience. The mirror area is also smaller than the OEM towing mirrors.

Galena wrote:
Getting ready to purchase new 1/2 ton truck, do I need to get a truck with the extended mirrors like used with the 3/4 ton trucks for a 30 TT?

Absolutely yes. Since you're buying a new truck don't miss this opportunity to fit it with factory tow mirrors ... after market can work but there's nothing better than factory.

You are going to need towing mirrors of some kind. It is pretty hard to beat the OEM adjustable/sliding electric mirrors, even the manual operated are easy to use. My Ford tow mirrors were considered the best early on, but I think all OEMs are good now.

My neighbor, that also tows a FW, came over to look at my new truck, and when he got in, first words were, "WOW, I need these mirrors".

Jerry

A friend has the F150 EcoBoost with the factory towing mirrors - we only wish our Tundra had them, but we bought used, so se la vie. We use Grand Aero add on mirrors. They're OK, but our friend's factory tow mirrors give him more view. Regular mirrors on our truck don't provide as much view as we'd like.