george c

Hi Folks,
New here and need your help. I did a search and got some great info about towing, but I couldn’t find the answers to my questions.
For the past seven or eight weeks have been gathering information on travel trailers and tow vehicles. When I first started my quest, if you will, thought I was going to buy a new F150. Well, things have changed somewhat and I have decided on a used F150.
Locally I have found 2003-2006 or so in my price range of not more than $15,000. I want a model capable of towing 9,000 pounds (loaded), though the most the trailer should weigh, depending the model I end up getting, is about 8,000 loaded.
I haven’t found a used F150 looking on the Internet that’s in my price range that has a trailer towing package. I checked with a local trailer place that has commercial trailers and have gotten a price on a trailer hitch (class 4, I’m pretty sure he said I needed) and brake control.
So, what should I be looking for?
Is there a place here that lists older models and towing weights? Also, it seems that on new models there are three engines. How about the years I’ll be looking? Today there are six speed automatics though the used ones I’ve seen have 4 speeds. When did the six speeds start?
The fellow at the trailer place said most trucks manufactured after 1999 have transmission coolers.
If you’ve read this far I thank you for your patience and will greatly appreciate any comments and advice.
Thanks so much…
George

FL77er

sounds like you might look for an F-250???

JP2085

Here are Ford's towing guides. Just select what year you want to view then F-150.
https://www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/...05_default.asp

And yeah, if you will be towing that weight regularly I'd go with a Super Duty gasser.

60DRB

I concur. An F-250 would be a better choice for that weight trailor.

Skull31

How about the 7 lug heavy duty package with the 410 gears.Would that be good for him?Or is that still putting to much stress on the transmission?

Belive the 6 speeds started back in 2009.

The years you will be looking came with
4.2
4.6
5.4(if you cannot afford a 250,gasser or D,your best bet will be the 5.4)

Chooie

Where in VA are you? Here in the Lynchburg area there have been several 250s on craigslist for under $15k.

george c

Thanks for taking the time to comment. I appreciate the information. Also, thanks for the link.
C, I'm in VB, will check craigslist....
George

lddrew

buy a diesel. if it's going to be a tow pig then that's what i'd do. 7.3 5.9 or 6.6. none of the new cummins or powerstrokes. ewwy

bigorangecntry07

listen to this guy^ our 6.0 is getting head studs right now, that job sucks. the cummins 5.9 is a great motor, very reliable and can make stupid power very easily

lddrew

only go Cummins if you can find a good condition manual tranny. do not buy a dodge autobox. they can't handle the torques. I admire the cummins i just couldn't ever buy a dodge. I would go duramax or 7.3 powerstroke and dodge if you can swallow that order haha