OP - Nice write-up. My experience almost mirrors yours. I started a thread in an F-150 forum that is applicable here.
"Wanted to post this as there are a lot of threads on this and other forums about the poor towing experience with the '15-'18 F-150's. I posted back in January on my first tow with my F-150. That trip went fairly well but I was still a little concerned when I continually read threads on how poorly the newer aluminum body, lighter weight, trucks tow. Since my original thread, I've installed a set of Bilstein 5100's and a Hellwig Sway Bar to the rear of my truck, this is in addition to a set of SumoSprings and Cooper LT tires I had already installed. Feel that the Bilstein shock upgrade was a great improvement over the OEM ones as the truck just feels better planted. Honestly not for sure how/if the Hellwig improved the towing experience, but when solo you can really tell the difference on rough roads and I'm glad I installed it. Possibly, the most important thing I did was readjust my Equalizer hitch as I felt I might have had to much weight on the front of the truck. Adjusting these hitches is a little time consuming; but in my opinion, the dividends are well worth it. Truck and RV are practically level when hitched. Anyway, just returned from another trip and I was delighted with the towing experience and am no longer concerned whatsoever. Truck pulled my 32', 7800#, Jayco travel trailer very, very well. No sway or other "white-knuckle" moments at all. Yes, I get a little push/pull from passing semi's and strong winds pushed us a bit, but I can honestly say it was no worse than towing with my previous HD truck and power-wise it was much better. Gas mileage has also improved now that I've put more miles on the truck. Towing I average a little over 9 and solo I get right at 20 - makes me a happy camper! I always stay under 65 when towing. Now I just have to set up the Blis so that it covers the trailer, which I forgot to do. So, my conclusion is with a few minor and relatively inexpensive suspension upgrades and a properly set-up hitch, these trucks make excellent RV pullers. Of course, this is my towing experience and my opinions. I do wish more folks would post about their positive towing experiences, might help those who, like me, are worrywarts. Thanks for reading and "Cheers"....."
