Forum Discussion

BruteForceNewYo's avatar
BruteForceNewYo
Explorer
Feb 06, 2015

F150 Vs F250

So I am torn on which truck to get. I am going to be looking to get a trailer which is a bunk house model. Most of the models I am looking at are GVRW of 10K.

F150 - Max Tow 10,5K and Payload of 2000
F250 Gas - Max Tow 12K and Payload of 3000

I am thinking of 1000 Tongue, 500 Passengers, 500 Cargo. F150 doesn't leave much extra for a tonneau or cap.

Seems like both would tow the trailers I am looking at. Wondering if there are other variables I am missing in my comparison.

I am in NY so the F150 could be plated for passenger vehicle roadways which is a pretty big advantage on a daily basis.

So confused.....any insights appreciated
Tow Vehicles

97 Replies

Show More
  • bogeygolfer's avatar
    bogeygolfer
    Explorer
    Feb 06, 2015
    I agree with the recommendation to get the 250. The 150 probably will pull it, but you won't like it at all, in my opinion. I've towed both ways (also have an F150 now) and much prefer the larger truck (for towing, anyway).

    And you'll be fine with the Ford gas. It sounds like more and more folks are going that route, given the potential problems with modern diesels. Which is unfortunate.
  • BruteForceNewYo's avatar
    BruteForceNewYo
    Explorer
    Feb 06, 2015
    @BenK Thanks...That is good advice which I knew but haven't been focusing on. I will make sure to compare...not sure I have seen the GAWR for the F150 yet.
  • DaveF-250SD's avatar
    DaveF-250SD
    Explorer
    Feb 06, 2015
    I would definitely go with the F-250. That trailer would be right at the maximum for the F-150 you describe. The F-250 leaves room for bringing extra stuff, or more people with you in your travels. Always assume that you will eventually load the trailer to it's max GVW, and size the tow vehicle accordingly. You will have a better, safer pull with an F-250 with that trailer.
  • BenK's avatar
    BenK
    Explorer
    Feb 06, 2015
    Compare their 'real' ratings...not their marketing numbers

    Compare their GVWR, F/R GAWR...that is the telling part

    Note their R GAWR. Should be about 2K difference...unless you are looking at the
    fake half ton...some of them have +5K RGAWR to 6K RGAWR...also that
    rare bird...AKA fake half ton

    Both ratings capacity for the trailer's PIN or tongue weight and the biggie....the
    ability to manhandle the setup during a situation when Mr Murphy crosses your path

    Then size the trailer to those true ratings of the TV, which should
    include GCWR
  • 8iron's avatar
    8iron
    Explorer
    Feb 06, 2015
    Don't get fooled by published brochure weights and ratings. The truck on the lot will have lower payload ratings. A 1/2 ton with an actual 2000# payload is a rare bird. A 3/4 tom with a 3000# payload is not as rare but not easy to find.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Feb 06, 2015
    Get the 2500 series. You may regret the Ford decision but you will not regret the heavier duty truck.

About Travel Trailer Group

44,048 PostsLatest Activity: Aug 25, 2025