F150, Ecoboost, and towing enclosed trailer
 

Hi there,

I have read most of the threads on towing, but still have an outstanding question. I am considering a F-150 Ecoboost crew cab, with and without the max tow package. I am towing an enclosed trailex trailer, 2000 lbs, with a race car weighing in at 2200 lbs. WIth the various tools, 2 sets of tires, and other misc stuff, I am guessing it adds another 1000 lbs. Let's call it 5500 lbs total. The trailer is a two-axle trailer with electric brakes.

For people who have towed, do I need the max tow package, or does the standard towing setup work? Given the setup of the trailer and where the engine is (rear), the tongue weight is close to 400 lbs. I am more concerned with the stopping power and stability. I live in the Boston area and regularly tow to Watkins Glen in NY, New Hampshire, Western Mass, and Canada.

I am considering the ecoboost because I am only towing around 20 times/year.

Thoughts or concerns?

Thanks everyone!
Nick

Might as well go with the 3.7L. Save some bucks and some gas :) A 2wd STX 3.7L with a 3.73 rear will tow 6K and costs around 26K! That leaves you money for racing tires and repairs galore.

I'm towing a 5500lb trailer with a 2010 5.4 FX4 with 3.73 gears with all the trailer goodies (integrated brake controller). The eco will eat it up. I don't have the max tow but you will want some sort of weight distribution.

Why will I need the weight distribution with the tongue weight being low? Or is there another reason?

Thanks
Nick

BTW the brake controler is only necesary if you have an electric over hydraulic trailer. If like me your trailer is a simple surge brakes you dont need it.

The Ecoboost will handle that load no problem. I towed a 6000lb boat/trailer combo over the weekend and the ecoboost handled it far better than my old 07' 5.4L F150. I don't have the Max tow package as I don't plan on towing anything over 9000lb in the distant future but if you have plans to it may be something to consider. Either way I think you will be very impressed with the towing capabilities of the ecoboost.

That's about the same weight as my boat and trailer combo and my EcoBoost without the max tow handles it perfect. No need for anything more and you will be very happy with it.

I'm only familiar with camping trailers, but if they're the same you'll want to get your tongue weight up to about 12 or 13%.

The WDH will take the majority of the bounce out and it helps to settle the front axle and remove weight from the rear axle. It will improve braking and steering control. I would load the tongue a little heavier too. It will help with the sway. Keep the trailer nose down etc. I have hooked mine up without the WDH and it sets the back end down 3-4 inches and it is bouncy. You don't have to have it but it does improve things immensely. Only my 2 cents though.

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