The F-150 can pull between 7,700 and 13,200 pounds, depending on your choice of engine size and axle ratio. The outcome depends on more than just the final weight.
The load must also be balanced for the vehicle to operate correctly. The axle weight is one of the most critical measurements anyone discusses.
The rear axles can often withstand more loads than the front. However, with the engine and most of the cab, the front axles already carry a substantial amount of weight. Your F150’s owner’s manual will have this information. Additionally, a copy can be downloaded from the Ford website.
F150 Details Concerning How Much Weight It Can Pull
Considering that the F150 can tow a Gross Combined Vehicle Weight of 13,200 pounds, we must also factor in the vehicle’s weight. The curb weight is the empty weight of the F-150, which must be removed from the Gross Combined Vehicle weight (again, curb weight and GVWR are two different things).
The 24 Ford F150 has a curb weight of 4,069 pounds, while the 44 has a curb weight of 4,330 pounds. The curb weight is subtracted from the 13,200-pound towing capacity of the Ford F-150, bringing us down to around 9,131 pounds. Of course, this value only accounts for the F150 with the minimum amount of operating fluids.
What Can I Carry in My Ford F-150?
To address this topic, we will utilize a bed length of 8 feet and consider the cargo capacity. The F-150 offers a cargo volume of 77,4 cubic feet. Let’s apply these numbers to real-world scenarios. Suppose you wish to transport some 2 x 4s.
These things demonstrate the versatility of the 8-foot bed since a conventional 2 x 4 fits perfectly. Theoretically, we could store 196 pieces of 2 x 4 lumber. This is one of the few occasions where the volume and payload are nearly identical.
When considering weight, you will notice that these 196 units weigh 3,136—190 fewer pounds than the truck’s maximum capacity. When compared to a standard cub, the F-150 possesses superior towing capability.
However, we have not discussed the tailgate’s weight capacity. Specifications for tailgates are complicated, as some manufacturers prefer not to publish criteria to prevent accidents.
In principle, the tailgate is supposed to retain and hold. However, because it is hinged, placing high loads on it might cause damage. There are online sites that provide estimations, primarily users and third-party publications.
To Put Towing Capacity Into Context
Other optional tow packages and some of the Ford F-150 Raptors have exotic features that are not quite “common.” In context, an F-150 Lariat equipped with an engine of 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 generates around 290 horsepower and a torque of 265 lb-ft.
This setup’s maximum towing capacity of around 5,000 pounds is insufficient to tow a large recreational vehicle. Nevertheless, it is adequate to tow a modest to moderately large camping trailer. This would allow you to bring a large camper trailer and possibly a towable recreational vehicle.
What Makes the Ford F-150 Ideal for Towing Heavy Loads?
Ford has demonstrated the F-150’s success by pushing it through various industry developments, with some of the best upgrades occurring underneath the half-ton vehicle and within the engine. As a result, the F-150’s towing capacity and capabilities are class-leading. The full-size Ford pickup can easily handle the most difficult journeys, making your life easier. Although the Ford F-150 has the best towing capacity on the market, the truck’s capabilities depend on several elements such as; Its engine Cab Transmission Bed arrangement Each component contributes to the weight capacity of the truck. Thanks to the pickup’s innovative towing capabilities, you can confidently operate in various locations and with multiple loads. The half-ton truck outperforms other vehicles in its class while pulling enormous weights. The revolutionary Ford vehicle makes even the most demanding chores appear simple.
Can an F150 pull the 5th wheel?
The F150’s fifth-wheel connection is a U-shaped connector located in the vehicle’s rear. As the 5th wheel trailer hitch is often located near the back of the truck, it reduces the cargo capacity. The trade-off is enhanced truck control and increased fuel economy.
The fifth-wheel trailer’s weight will depend on the container itself. There are numerous types of fifth-wheel trailers available.
You can find containers as small as 2,400 pounds and as hefty as 20,000 pounds. Again, you would require different components using the same chart and premise as previously. The fifth wheel would provide more control over the drive’s stability.
You must consider the amount of cargo in the bed of your F150 pickup. As part of the journey, placing a suitcase or tent in the trailer may be necessary rather than the cab or truck bed. You must also ensure that the fifth wheel is correctly attached to the truck.
Is Having a Diesel Engine on the F-150 An Advantage?
Diesel engines produce more torque and overall power than those gasoline. Diesel is said to have a higher energy density compared to gasoline.
This results in better fuel economy. If you frequently tow large trailers, this can be a useful feature. However, with trucks of this size, the difference in power and fuel efficiency is negligible.
Diesel engines are generally more expensive than gasoline engines, negating this advantage. If you only tow a camper or boat once or twice a month, the cost difference between a diesel and a gasoline engine will likely take a long time to recuperate.
Conclusion
The Ford F-150 is a monstrous pickup truck. With the addition of 44, your Ford F-150’s towing capacity will improve dramatically, making it nearly the only vehicle you need for towing.
The F150 consistently outperforms the Chevy Silverado in terms of towing capacity. Please consult your dealer for a precise calculation of how much weight your Ford F-150 can tow.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.