pulling power?
07-24-2008, 06:59 PM
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pulling power?
i have a 4.9l 1990 f150 auto. could the drive train handle pulling a car trailer with a 2300 pound race car just fine i havnt done it yet cuz i just got the reciver hitch and i have to put it on.
07-24-2008, 07:10 PM
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I towed our race car with a 81 F-150 with a 302 windsor and a three speed auto. Our car was about 2700 lbs a 200lb generator and misc tools and fuel. never had a problem except braking. Def get a trailer brake. At first I didnt have enough tongue weight but fixed that. So I think you can do it. How far are you going?
07-24-2008, 07:29 PM
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That is a very reliable engine, had one myself back in 1971. You will have to stay out of OD. As with any engine size, its easier to pull than it is to stop. Like the suggestion of trailer brakes.
07-25-2008, 12:40 PM
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yeah I would think you will be ok. The track I went to is about 15 miles, most of it over a bridge. i say try it and see what happens. If the suspension doesnt stay level and you cant move the car back look into a weight distribution hitch. that will help a ton. Motor wise im not sure, what rear gear to you have?
07-26-2008, 07:38 PM
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I have a 91, same set up, towed a 03 explorer 120 miles when the front dif went out. By far it was the most stressful thing I have ever done. It pulled the weight ok but the older trucks are fairly light and can get pushed around. This was 4400 + trailer. The truck should be ok if you set things up right. Get a trailer with electric brakes, the hydrolic brakes require the truck to be able to slow first and can be very dangerous. If the trailer starts to sway from high wind or having the car loaded too far back just taping the electric brakes will pull you strait instantly. The full hitch will help a lot. Also the rear springs arnt great on these trucks, if it sags too much you can get a 500 or 1000 lb helper spring set for about $100. I would also suggest a trans cooler, most radiator coolers can stop working after 100k, would be a good investment.