xMUDKINGx

I second leaving the trans fluid alone. The particles in the clutches that have worn down over time are suspended in the current fluid and taking those particles out of the fluid is enough to make the clutches stop working (start slipping) it's almost acts like a friction modifier just like you would have in a trac loc/ limited slip diff. Without it the clutches start slipping and fail to do their job and if you already at that point, a trans rebuild is down the road at some point, but no reason to invite disaster before that time actually comes.

tcruz0004

My fluid color isn't that bad, so I'm guessing it was serviced at least 75K miles ago - probably sooner. With that in mind I'll just be doing a fluid and filter change as the service manual recommends and continuing to do it every 30K miles. Thanks for the input though!

tcruz0004

At this point, I have changed my transmission fluid and filter. The filter was likely original as the little yellow plug was still in the pan. Fluid looked very dark in the pan, but didn't look as dark when checking the dipstick (before the change). I added 5 quarts after the change and it has been working nicely. I felt one slip around 55mph after driving approx 100 miles today but that was it. How much has everyone added after doing a pan drop change? When I checked mine after driving 15 miles it appeared to be good but was difficult to check.

Secondly, I have completed all maintenance except checking the 4X4 with a vacuum system and was wondering if anyone had any advice about towing a vehicle or trailer. My owners manual wasn't specific about the limits for towing but I'm sure a car should be no problem.

Bobby Lane

This link lists the specs, including tow capacity for an 05, not much difference for an 06.
https://www.fordf150.net/specs/05f150.php

While these trucks have pretty large upper end of the towing spectrum (9500), they don't do great with original gearing and larger tires. I tow a heavy load a couple times a year with a toy hauler. When in hills, I just baby it, get in the truck lane for the steeper grades and accept 35-45 mph. That keeps it from jumping up to 4000 rpm and getting the tranny too hot for extended periods. Don't get me wrong, if I wanted to floor it, I could climb a hill at 60-65, but I don't want to push anything. On flat, Over Drive is off and it runs and pulls great.

tcruz0004

I'll be towing a VW Golf which will be about 3K lbs and adding approx 1K lbs to my truck itself in the bed and cab. Pretty sure that link showed a 2005 5.4L Super Crew with max combined capacity of 15K LBS, so I think I should be fine. I will be driving through hills though. Today I found out I will be moving to the Pacific Northwest from South Texas.

For anyone with experience.... Is it better to tow a vehicle on a flat bed or to have the front wheels off the ground and the rear wheels rolling?

redfishtd

After changing filter and cleaning magnet in pan.
I have changed fluid 4 times 5 quarts at a time . I added the drain plug pan and every week or so changed it . I ordered a case of mercon V from amazon first .

redfishtd

The RV guys deal with this all the time so they can have an easy tow vehicle. Check with Volkswagen dealer and check with RV guys . You can damage some transmissions etc .
If you are towing trailer get electric brakes and controller . Stopping is more important sometimes than going .I have 05 and and after market brake controller . Saves your truck brakes too. Towing should be taken very seriously .
Are you sure you are not Ted Cruz on the run . LOL. Have a good trip .

tcruz0004

Glad to report that everything on my list to prepare the truck for the drive/tow is completed. My transmission fluid looks a little high (above max level) but I have trouble getting an accurate read. From what I read on another post, some members don't believe it will cause serious damage. I really wish I would have had the time to install the drain plug on the pan, but that will happen next time. Anyone had/heard about bad experience with high tranny fluid level?

For towing.. I know to drive with O/D off. What speed do you guys tow at? I was planning on maxing out at 60mph but I have no experience. I am wondering in concern for the engine/transmission. Any other tips or advice are much appreciated!

tcruz0004

Alright guys, I'm all set and ready to go. All the maintenance has been completed. I got my Uhaul auto transport connected today and would like some opinions regarding the attachment.

I have a leveling kit on my truck, not sure how many inches but Im pretty sure it's in the front end. My ball is a 2 inch and the mount is a 2 inch drop. When I attached the trailer, the rear end sags heavily. I figured it was due to the leveling kit and the pressure from the trailer but I wanted to know what everyone thinks. Is this abnormal? Please keep in mind that this is my first time towing anything so any info helps. Here are two pictures:

Ricktwuhk

The tongue weight of the trailer is causing the rear end to squat. ASSUMING that the tongue weight is not over the 500 pound limit (after which you need a WDH), you could consider using a hitch with less of a drop, but I think you would get the same reaction, but the truck to trailer connection would be higher off the ground..
If there is anything in the bed, put it in the car in the rear.