F150: max payload package or airbags?
I own a 2013 F150 that I really like but want a firmer suspension for hauling and trailer pulling. I might upgrade this truck but really need a new vehicle anyway. I have not been able to get a prom...
Forum Discussion
mbopp wrote:
Before I got my F150 I had a chat with Ford about the Max Tow vs standard tow package. Among other things, the Max Tow's radiator has an extra row of tubes for better cooling.
Max Payload has a heavier frame and 7-lug wheels.
Adding air bags doesn't increase your "official" payload.
Some things have changed for the 2016 models. I know that max payload no longer gets 7 lug wheels, they just get sturdier 6 lug wheels and load range C tires of the same size. I heard that on the 2014s and earlier the heavier frame came with the 6 1/2' bed on the crew cab regardless of what else was ordered.
The only other thing that I know for sure that you get with max payload is larger gears and a slightly different ratio. It seems to me that pulling 11,000 pounds would put a lot more strain on the gears than putting an extra 800 in the bed so I am inclined to believe that the gears provided with the max tow package are up to the task no matter what I do. I would love to look at one but I have never seen a 2014 or earlier model with max payload, much less a 2016(that they don't build yet). I really don't understand why a different rear axle keeps you from getting a different cruise control, radio or sunroof.
As far as an F250 goes, I really like the 18mpg around town and 24mpg highway that my current eco-boost offers. More important, I plan to use the truck as a toad behind my DP and the extra weight of the F250 is more than I want to pull.
