Hey everyone, I’m new here! I’ve got a 2023 F150 XLT Supercrew with the 3.5 Ecoboost, 4x4, short bed, and the 3.55 rear locking diff. GVWR is 7050 with a payload of 1870 lbs. It came with a Class IV hitch (500 lbs to 5000 lbs weight-carrying, 1160 lbs to 11,600 lbs weight-distributing). Only one leaf spring in the rear, with one thicker leaf as well. How do I know if I have the max tow capacity? Thanks in advance!
Does your window sticker mention the Tow Technology, Tow Package, or anything about the Class IV hitch?
Nico said:
Does your window sticker mention the Tow Technology, Tow Package, or anything about the Class IV hitch?
Nope, nothing on there about a tow package or max tow package. Just shows the Class IV hitch.
@Reagan
If it’s got the Class IV, then without the tow package you’re looking at a 7,000 lbs max tow rating.
I can’t say exactly, but I can promise that engine will handle way more than it can carry! For you, payload might be more of a limiter than tow capacity. It’s a beast for a half-ton, though.
Zinnia said:
I can’t say exactly, but I can promise that engine will handle way more than it can carry! For you, payload might be more of a limiter than tow capacity. It’s a beast for a half-ton, though.
Good point! I was just wondering if I’d be okay to tow around 11,600 lbs with the setup I’ve got.
@Reagan
With that payload, I’d be careful not to push it too much with an 11,600 lbs trailer. You’ll want a light load if you’re planning to go that high!
If it’s only got the Class IV receiver, then yeah, you’re at a 7,000 lbs max for both the 5.0 and 3.5 EB engines. All the 3.5s come with the 9.75 rear axle. Legally, GVWR is your binding limit, so keep that in mind if you’re towing heavy. No extra radiator in the tow package; it’s mostly just sway bars and the fancy backup knob lol.
@Nico
Sorry, didn’t quite follow that last part. Can you break it down a bit more?
Reagan said:
@Nico
Sorry, didn’t quite follow that last part. Can you break it down a bit more?
Sure! So if you don’t have the pro backup knob (the one right above the 4WD selector), then you probably don’t have the full tow package. That puts you at a max of 7,000 lbs for towing.
Got a 7-pin and 4-pin trailer connector? If so, you might have the 53A tow package from the previous model year. For your 3.5EB with the 3.55 gears, your towing range would be around 11,300 to 13,900 lbs if you’ve got the package. Without it, you’re at 7,000 lbs. Payload, including tongue weight, will probably be your limiting factor here.
@Mackenzie
Yep, I’ve got both connectors, the brake controller, and some upgraded brackets on the bumper. Thanks for the info!
@Mackenzie
If you’re planning to tow close to 11,600 lbs, I’d keep the trips short and maybe avoid any big hills!
Hey, if you’re curious, here’s the 2023 F150 towing guide: Ford 2023 F150 Towing Guide. It should give you all the exact numbers.
@Chen
Thanks! I’ll check that out and see if I’m good for 11,000 lbs.