YankeeBP wrote:
I am new to RV-ing and would like some candid advice from some of you experienced RV-ers.
I am in the TV and TT research stage.
I plan to do some long distance towing. For example, Chattanooga, TN, to the Canadian Rockies and back (5000 plus miles). There will only be my wife and me, so we are thinking that we want a smaller ultralite TT (<= 24 feet).
I plan to tow with a Ford F-150 4x4 either with the 5.0L v8 or the v6 Eco/Boost. I am undecided at this point.
If I understand Ford's towing charts correctly, the F150 with the 5.0L V8 and a 3.55 rear-end has a maximum loaded trailer weight for towing of 7700 lbs. I have seen a recommendation that one not exceed 80% of that weight, which is 6160 lbs. I have not checked the same stats on the v6 eco/boost.
I would like to keep my TT as light as possible because I would rather be over-powered than under-powered. Consequently, I am focusing my attention on Ultralite TT's whose dry weight is in the range 3000 lbs to 4000 lbs. with a slide-out.
What experiences and advice can you give me?
You will be happy with either the 5.0 or the Eco. My personal choice would be the eco due to the awesome torque curve down low, compared to the 5.0 (yes, I have towed with both, unlike many in this thread).
Intercooler issue is few and far between on the Eco. As is the hot "tick" of the 5.0's, and the oil consumption issues.
ALL motors will have problems of one type or another. Any manufacturer. Any size motor. Any fuel type.
I HIGHLY recommend the 3.55 at a minimum, and preferably the 3.73 for towing. I HIGHLY recommend the max tow package, as it gives you the 3.73, towing mirrors, integrated brake controller, and 300# more payload (in case you ever decide to trade up), plus super engine cooling on the 5.0, and upgraded receiver hitch.
As far as fuel mileage, the eco and the 5.0 get very close both loaded and unloaded (and again, I have towed the exact trailer with both). The difference is that the eco will not shift as often as the 5.0 due to the torque curve. I can get roughly two mpg better with my eco than my dads 5.0 on the same trip.
Being as how you are going to be doing some mountain towing, I would lean toward the Eco due to altitude power loss on an naturally aspirated motor like the 5.0.
On the biggest f150 forum on line, there are 5 ecos with known blown engines. I know at least two were aftermarket programmed for more horsepower. Stay away from that for best longevity, IMO.
