Picking up my new 2014 XLT Eco Crew tomorrow, taking delivery in North Alabama but need to tow a trailer loaded with my Teryx4 to Louisville, Ky. Machine weighs about 1600lbs, not sure about trailer, it's a tandem 6 1/2 x16. Truck is 4x4 with 3:55 gears. Is this to much to tow on this brand new truck and what is recommended by Ford? What's your thoughts guys?

 

I can't recall what the manual says about towing new. Wait 500 miles? 1000 miles?

Either way, I towed 4,500 lbs or so with my truck, within the first 100 miles. It's a truck, use it and enjoy.

 

Thanks Sammy77, I also had a good friend that's a Ford ASE mechanic tell me to haul whatever.

 

Drive the truck how you will drive it. I never have seen the point in babying any engine that doesn't have leaded gas. With all these new motors they don't really have a break in time anymore. Good luck.

 

The break in period has as much to do with the transmission and rear end as it does with the engine. I didn't and wouldn't tow with a brand new truck until I got some miles on it.

 

The Ops Manual for my new F-150 STX 5.0L w/Towing Package suggests first Towing should occur after 1,000 miles. So, that's what I'm doing. ~600 miles down; 400 to go.

I verified today that the OEM TBC I installed worked. Nice Unit. I'm having my regular Mechanic install Firestone Air Bags bought from Amazon.com. I've used Air Bags before, and they're sweet.

 

I would be more worried of you staying at the same rpm for long periods of time on that trip of yours not letting the piston rings and other bearings to seat in. Try to vary your rpm and not stay at the same rpm for extended periods of time on your trip. I had to take a somewhat extended trip during my break in. I kept taking away gears every so often while I was cruising just to vary my rpms, but I tried not to go above 3,000 rpms. I also varied my driving speed when I could.

 

The first few hundred mile break-in before towing is actually more geared towards the drive-train and specifically the rear axle ring & pinion. Granted that 4500lb load is no problem for the F150 EB, but on a brand new R&P you're supposed to run a few hundred miles to break them in before putting the axle under any load. Pulling a trailer that weighs almost 2/3's what the truck weighs puts that much more load on the rear end.

 

Personally, I wouldnt. Break in isn't only about the engine.

 

I've been told in the past by mechanics after a fresh engine or trans rebuild...... If it's gonna break, it's gonna break right now! Floor it!
Plus, you got warranty. Tow and go.