How Much Can A Ford F-150 Tow?
If you dream of having a fifth wheel RV, or other toys, you’re probably trying to decide which tow vehicle to get. You need something powerful enough to haul that new RV after all.
There are plenty of options, but one of the best for smaller RVs is a Ford F-150. But just how much can an F-150 tow?
Keep reading to find out!
Ford F-150 Towing Capacity
The towing capacity of the F-150 depends on several things, which we will discuss in this article. But as a general response, the F-150 can tow between 7,000 and 13,200 pounds.
We know that’s a huge range and plays a major role in whether you can tow that shiny new fifth wheel. So, to help you out, let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
We base all of our information on the 2020 Ford F-150. So older models might not stack up.
Ford F-150 Towing Capacity: Gas Vs Diesel Engines
One factor impacting the towing capacity is if you have a gas or diesel engine. Diesel engines are generally presumed to have a higher towing capacity. But with Ford’s new EcoBoost engine, you can actually get superior towing with a gas engine!
The 3.0L Diesel V6 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 11,500 pounds. If you opt instead for the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 you can tow up to 13,200 pounds.
Pretty amazing, right?!
The lowest towing capacity for a 2020 Ford F-150 comes in at 7,700 pounds for the 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 gas engine. So, diesel still outmatches or comes in equally with the other gas engines. But the 3.5L EcoBoost gas engine really stands apart.
Maximum Tow Package for the Ford F-150 Details
The maximum tow capabilities for the Ford F-150 depend on the trim series, option content, and payload. To get the maximum towing capabilities, here is was you need from your F-150.
For the engine, you’ll want to select the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. The 4×2 with supercrew will get you to the maximum of 13,200 pounds. Your towing capability also depends on the type of trailer you are towing and the hitch receiver. It is important to note, they can only reach this maximum for conventional towing.
For 5th wheel towing, you will need the Trailer Tow Package or Max Trailer Tow Package. Your best bet is also to get the 3.5L GTDI V6 engine with 3.73 axle ratio, and the 4×2 regular cab.
This will allow you to 5th wheel tow up to 11,900 pounds.
What Kind of RVs Can the Ford F-150 Tow?
The Ford F-150 can tow almost any kind of RV but has some limitations when it comes to weight. You can tow a traditional bumper pull travel trailer (although if towing with the bumper only, the maximum weight is 5,000 pounds), fifth wheels, and also truck top slide-in campers.
Keep in mind, that with weight ratings, you need to factor in the gross weight of the trailer itself and any cargo.
When you start RVing, you will have many more things in the trailer and also possibly water. This can increase the weight quickly. Make sure that whatever RV you will tow can be safely towed when it is loaded down with this extra weight. Generally, a smaller trailer is better when you tow with the F-150.
Towing with a Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 is a great option for towing smaller trailers and fifth wheels. You will get better gas mileage than some larger trucks and also have the option to maximize capacity with a gas engine.
For longer and heavier fifth wheels, you’ll likely need to look into something more heavy-duty. But for a smaller trailer, it is the perfect fit. It’s no wonder it is one of the best-selling trucks in America.
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