I'm close to pulling the trigger on a 2024 SuperCrew, short box, 4x4, STX, 5.0, with max trailer tow package. Over 90% of it's use will be trailer towing. The heaviest trailer I pull is usually around 5,000 lb, so way under the trucks capacity (around 13,000). My question/concern is the tongue weight. Ford says max tongue weight is 500 lb. My trailer is usually around 600. Should I be concerned? Will the bumper be dragging on the ground? Does anyone know why Ford has such a low max tongue weight?

 

Sounds about correct for a non weight distribution hitch.

 

 

If I understand correctly, the limit is the hitch not the truck. Either upgrade the hitch frame on the truck or get a weight-distributing hitch.

And as always, make sure the hitch weight, plus all people and gear in the truck, is less than the load capacity.

 

This is what I'm wondering, if the hitch is the weak link, not the trucks frame. Are you aware of any stronger hitches that are available for a 2024?

 

People tow tongue weights above 500lbs with half tons all the time. They do it using weight distribution hitches. That’s the safe and correct way to approach it. 3/4 and 1 ton trucks are rated to carry more but not just because of the installed hitch rating.

you need to keep enough weight on your front wheels to maintain control in an avoidance maneuver and brake safely.

 

I've got an aluminum frame trailer that does not allow using a weight distribution hitch and I encounter some off road situations where I need full articulation. A crew cab truck with multiple (heavy) people in the cab and a only few hundred pounds in the box should keep plenty of weight on the front. I would definitely stay under the trucks payload rating (1,7xx). My concern is if the hitch/frame can handle 600 lb tongue weight. If installing a heavier duty hitch is a legitimate fix then all is well, otherwise I should probably move up to a HD truck.

 

I believe it is how the truck will handle with more than 500 pounds tongue weight without the WDH. Even with a WDH, any weight transferred to the truck still has to go through the hitch. The max tow and regular trucks are rated for 500 pounds but the max tow has an upgraded hitch.

 

Check the picture above, with the same hitch frame on the truck they are allowing #1400 with WD hitch. you're not going to hurt the hitch at 600. I don't know your layout can you shuffle the load any, you might be surprised how little it takes to change tongue weight.

 

The above picture is from my receiver on my 2021 max tow. Fwiw my drive axle weight increases 1000# according to the cat scale with my 6000# TT connected with a wdh. I would assume my hitch weight is approximately 1000# but I’m no engineer so I can’t explain the different ratings for the different hitch types.