brulaz

You will need the HD Payload option if you want the water tank in the bed. That option includes heavier springs, shocks, wheels and axle as well as lt-metric tires. It also comes automatically with the Max Tow options, like tranny cooler, bigger rad and stuff.

All of that increases the payload by about 1000# over a regular F150.

The regular F150 is not really a truck IMHO. Especially in the suspension department. Ford designed it for commuting, not every day working. But get the HD Payload option like the contractors do, and you'll have a real truck that can do what you want.

mflinehan

Thanks again guys amazing what you can learn in a day. I talked to a dealer today he's going to find me a truck or two with the max payload and tow package available. What's the cost on these leveling kits I'm reading about? Will it be needed.
I can't use a trailer. It's a real hassle for where I drive and an f250 is over kill I think. I go through the water at roughly 40 gallons an hour so it wouldn't be at its max for long.
If anyone out there has similar experience using an f150 please share I'd love to learn from others mistakes before I make all of my own.

zak21

Don't do a leveling kit. What they do is raise the front to match the rear. This will magnify the tail dragging when you are loaded. What I would do is put air bags on. They also make a nice add on kit that senses when the rear is loaded down and inflates the bags when needed.

mflinehan

What's the cost on those?

murf

Roadmaster active suspension, super springs, air bags, timbrens, they all help to keep your back level. All around $400.

canddmeyer

Have you considered a Ford Econoline cargo van. I notice auto detailers and carpet cleaners love their 3/4 and 1 ton vans as they carry huge plastic barrels/tanks in fixed positions for liquids.

The E250 has a payload of 3630lbs in standard wheelbase, and the 1 ton has a 3840lb or higher payload.

http://www.ford.com/commercial-truck...ions/view-all/

mflinehan

That is a great idea, I have an appintment at dealership today. I'll leopard you all posted on what I learn.

brulaz

Just make sure you can live with mpg. The E series trucks are still using the older motors and 4-spd automatics.

EDIT: And they are going to be replaced with the Transit series for 2014. Newer motors, tranny and even a diesel. http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/14/w...rge-xl-or-xxl/

mflinehan

So I went in and ordered a 2013 f150 regular cab, with a full size box and the ecoboost yesterday. Kept it pretty bare of other options. Added the heavy payload package, and max tow. This should give me the 2800 pound payload I need. I'm looking forward to getting it. Thanks for all the help and input from all of you.
Never thought I'd be a ford guy.

PARIAH

You aren't one yet!
Congrats on your decision. Any idea when you'll get it?