I have read numerous threads about this and still can't seem to find the answer I am looking for. I have a 13 crewcab xlt 5.0 without towing package purchased at a price I couldn't pass up even with know I will eventually be getting a travel trailer. I have added a class 4 after market hitch and just purchased the 4 and 7 connector from the dealer but I am wanting to install a TBC but the local dealer says I can't install one on my truck because I don't have the towing package ( which I know is BS). Has anyone installed one before and if so is the factory ford TBC better or should I get an aftermarket one? And how do you install one? And any other things I should be informed about about please share! Thanks ahead

 

Only help I can provide is when I called for mine he said if your truck is prewired for the plug it's quick and simple, if not its more money and time but not impossible. Mine's an 2010 but I think 2011 and newer they all come prewired

 

I viewed an excellent You Tube video on how to install the TBC, it appears to be quite easy and done with tools that you likely already own. Once the device is installed, you'll have to pay a Ford service center to flash your computer so it will read the TBC, that service should cost $100 or less.

 

So it basically should be a plug and play with a little more wiring than normal since I don't have the towing package already installed? That doesn't sound to bad

 

You also won't have the aux transmission oil cooler and upgraded radiator... Just something to keep in mind...

 

I checked on my vin I have the oil cooler just no trans cooler I have already gotten a quote on that to be installed in order to not void my warranty if anything happens

 

If your truck didn't come with the 4/7 pin connector from the factory you can't install an oem tbc. If your truck came from the factory with the 4/7 pin connectors then its plug in and turn on with an IDS.

 

Probably cheaper to get a better aftermarket TBC with the wiring harness. Don't have to pay a bum at the dealer to turn it on.

I'm trying to do the same thing. Changed the bumper hitch to the OEM under bumper frame hitch. Need to Add a TBC and aux trans oil cooler.

Only other difference is like was stated the super capacity radiator. But I do believe that is only on Max tow trucks and not regular tow package trucks.
Oh and the gearing.

 

My 2013 XLT Super Crew 4x4 5.0 came equipped with everything as the Max Tow Pkg, except for the towing mirrors and the 3.73 gears. I just pulled a 6000# travel trailer to the Texas Hill Country. I had installed Long View mirror extensions, 5 Sart tunes, Airaid Modular Intake Tube, and an AFE Dry S drop-in air filter. I was able to tow comfortably, most of the trip, with 6th gear locked out. It would occasionally drop to 4th, and sometimes 3rd, on the steeper rises. I was able to maintain 60-65 mph (10.2 mpg average, using the Tow/Haul mode) through these hills and was well pleased at the 5.0's towing with its 3.55 gearing. I feel I made a good decision, on this setup, as I only tow my camper a few times a year.