Seefo

I am looking to use the truck as a tow vehicle and drive it to/from work. Here are my options:

Both are STX regular cabs with the 4.6L and 3.55 rear ratio.

2005, 93k miles, without tow package
- Owner used it as a daily and occasionally towed a lawn mower.

2004, 122k miles, with tow package, +$800
- Dealership car and they don't know the past history

I am handy and can add the transmission cooler and whatever wiring that is needed. My only concern is about the brake controller plug, which I heard doesn't always run to the rear of the car. Is that year specific? Is there an easy way to tell?

Do you guys think I should be concerned that he was towing a lawn mower (and probably other junk) without the transmission cooler? (I am doubtful about this really, but I figured I would ask anyway)

Which car do you guys think I should go with?

BigNick98

What kind of towing our you looking to do? My old 4.6 with 3.55s was a dog. If your looking into going a lot of heavy towing I would suggest looking into a 5.4. You and your truck will be alot happier.

Seefo

I will be towing a miata on a trailer and my wife. A couple of tools for the track and maybe in the future a set of tires. I think it should be between 4500-5000 lbs total.

The "manual" seems to indicate the truck should be able to handle 6500 lbs, I will be well under that for the most part.

The only other trucks in my price bracket are 5.3L Chevys. They were a bit more peppy, but I had no complaints either way.

Dozer5

You'll definately want the 5.4. I pull a 4000# boat with a 5.4 and 3.55's and wish I had more power.

Seefo

Are you saying your whole setup is 4000 lbs or just the boat?

Dozer5

Whole set up. 20 ft bow rider with 2 axle trailer. Struggles to hold speed on longer hills. 3.73's would probably make it easier. The Chevy 5.3's are high winding and down on power vs the 5.4.