fintip wrote:
JRscooby:
I'm still surprised that you find the F150 here to potentially not be enough to handle that trailer, especially empty. People tow heavier trailers with lighter vehicles without serious issue regularly. For me, this is probably the sweet spot, but I feel I'm being conservative. Sure, it's not so big that I won't feel the trailer, but that would be overkill. Again, first tow with it will be empty, and it'll be at half the capacity of the truck's base tow limit. Under half, actually--this particular F150, with the 3.73 final drive and tow package, looks to be rated for 5700 pounds. And with the single cab, the payload availability is maximized.
I do not know how to get this idea between your ears. You act like you want to run within limits. For that I say good on you.
The GVWR of that F150 is 6500 lbs, by the sticker, right? The brakes on the truck are designed to stop that weight, with a reserve for safety. Right?
Now that pickup is going to weigh 5000 at least. So the first trip, with only the experience you have now, you are going to be running
IN THAT SAFETY RESERVE by at least 1300 lbs.
Grit dog wrote:
Totally, experience towing and an at least nominal understanding of vehicles and physics plays in big time. And dragging that trailer around with a 1/2 ton in good condition is way different than a compact truck or a truck that is mechanically questionable.
I agree with you. And when that trailer gets brakes on it, a 150 will work great. But to stay in the numbers without brakes, it will take a 350 at least.
