gschindel wrote:
If I could talk my wife into diesel and if it wasn't her daily drive - I would definitely look at the new little dodge diesel or a 3/4 ton.
It sounds like the HD would be great if I can find one. But as I'm looking for a left over 2014 or a slightly used one it may not happen.
The 5ths I looked at were Open Range Light - that were supposedly designed to be pulled by an f150 - or at least marketed that way. They have one that has a dry pin of 1055lb and total weight of 8025lb - so that should work even on a non HD - or so it seems. Others of this brand that look more desirable though have pins of 1570lb which would likely be pushing it. Will have to look at other brands too - must be more out there?? The sales guy was trying to tell me that a loaded one wouldn't have any more pin weight if it was loaded "right" - smells like BS to me - to you?
If I can't find an HD and need to beef up the truck will air bags be enough of a compensation for what I want the truck to do? Or do I really need that 7th lug and all that comes with it?
Thanks for the update OP. Really, it is a matter of simple math whether you need the max tow, HD, or something bigger altogether. I didn't stress about finding a max tow or HD package on my F150 because I don't need it with my trailer. If you can find a 5'er w/ a true pin weight of 1000#, an 1800# payload may get you there, who knows. This is the time of year for RV shows -- I'd recommend visiting a few and seeing what is out there. You could also visit one of many forums that are dedicated to F150s -- not sure if I can mention any specifically, but there are several -- that have towing sections and a lot of people towing different setups w/ an F150.
Keep in mind that air bags and aftermarket equipment don't technically increase your towing rating. They just change the dynamics a little bit. Adding air bags because you are 500# over still leaves you 500# over. Lots of people are ok with that, and frankly, you may be, since you're probably butting up against or exceeding your ratings towing a 30' TT w/ a Durango.
