bstar1952 wrote:
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"....."
That 3.5 EB and that slick and quick 10 speed yanks my trailer up to speed before I leave the merge lane.
Suspension upgrades such as shocks, slotted rotors, and better pads have always been my go-to for better braking and ride control with my cars. It's amazing that manufacturers skimp on the best quality parts.
You would think that these truck would already have the best of what is available, because of what they are used for.
I haven't encounter high winds so I'm going to keep my speed at a moderate pace until I gain experience and awareness.
I'm not surprised about the truck's capabilities, but more so with the Blue Ox being effective on a long trailer.
I do believe the stiff GY Endurance helped provides more stability than those soft China bombs, and besides the heightened anticipations from the first few big rigs passing, I didn't get much of anything.
After a while, I got tired of waiting for something to happen...had me scared for nothing.
The best thing about being a rookie, it that a bad towing experience will scare the pants off you, so it was important that this truck handle this trailer and giving me confidence.
I hit 65 and 70 mph before I knew it, and then it hit me to brace myself, because those big rigs were getting closer behind me.
