Rusty2192

Just how bad is the 4.6 really? I am in the market for a used F-150 and the 01-03 screws are looking like prime subjects. I don't currently have anything to tow, but I want to keep the option open to get a boat or camper. My parents have an old (late '80s) 22' travel trailer that I would want to be able to borrow. Would the 4.6 be up to this or should I hold out for a 5.4?

Tackle

They are fine engines, built to last over 200k miles with proper maintenance. The 5.4 gives you a little more but either one is decent.

It all comes down to weight on that TT. I would guess that you would have no problem pulling it but I suggest you find out how much it weighs and the tongue weight first.

me1234

You should also look at the gearing. Make sure the truck your lookong at actually has the tow package as well or the truck won't have a transmission cooler(I could be wrong on that). I've seen in other threads recommending against towing for long distances with a truck without the towing package

Also, 2wd's also have a higher towing capacity than 4x4's although this ability won't help you if you get stuck....

Anyway, I'm happy with my 4.6L w/ 3:55 LSD rear. I haven't personally towed with it but my grandpa used to use my truck to tow his bass boat for 100 miles at a time and had no issues with it.

Another thing to think about: you may want to check to see if the truck has a Limited-slip differential(LSD) especially if you go the 2wd route. If your unfamiliar with a LSD it's the same thing as chevrolet's positraction.

greenheadkiller98

I have 4.11 gears on my 2wd with 6" lift and 33s(soon to be 35s) and it pulls awesome! Pulled a f250 7.3 long bead that had oil hoses come loose 100+ miles and i never shifted out of overdrive on an overpass. Theyre not a racecar motor, but they pull great with the right gearing and not too big of tires for the gear. Pulled my 16ft boat over some BIG steep bridges near the coast and it hold 55 without downshifting. Even stock it felt like its lacking top speed but this little motor alwas felt like it was full of torque. Its a great truck engine, i think if people would expect what it is made for ( a truck motor not a drag racer) out of it it would be alot more popular. It has also been super reliable for me. If i buy a newer model ford after this truck, it will definately be the 4.6

MXRIDER55

I've got a 2000 4X4 with the 4.6L and 3.31 gears. It pulls okay, only rated at 5000lbs. The most I pull with it is a 14' flatbed with couple quads and dirtbikes, or a RZR. The weight of the trailer is big factor.

Rusty2192

Thanks for the replies. I'm going to check one out tonight. 2002 screw 4X4 and the guy says it has the tow package. I'll be sure to check what the rear end is. I tried looking online and from what little information I could remember about my parents' TT it looks like the weight should be below 4,000 lbs. (seems light to me for an older model before they thought about weight reduction) Although the more I think about it, before my dad got his 07 F-150 (5.4) he pulled it with his 92 GMC with a ragged out 305 with 200,000 miles on it, so I guess if that can pull it, anything can.

Tackle

There is a difference between physically being able to pull it and safely being able to pull it. People have bragged about pulling 10k+ loads before. This is not safe or easy on your truck.

WV_02L2

I had a 2002 F150 XL 2wd w/ 4.6l engine as a work truck. It had 305,148 miles on it when they took it away and sold it at auction. Ran great, I loved that little truck. I bumper pulled a 5x8 trailer with an ATV on it a few times, it pulled well but that was well under 4,000 lbs and without a tow hitch.

TheBathTub

i have an 01 4.6l with 3.55 gears, its ok. its kind of a dog goin up mountains on the weekends but other than that its decent for daily driving. i dont tow anything however. i had a 03 5.4l that towed bobcats and stuff. i would rather have my 5.4l back tho. seems the area im in is big on 4.6l's so the best lookin one i could find i settled for the 4.6l.

ibd2328

iTrader: (2)

Very well said... Safety and the integrity of the truck, along with yourself and other drivers, are the main concern when hauling heavy loads.

I've exceeded the GVWR many times in emergencies, but always used a trailer with electric brakes and upgraded tow hitch/ball (1 and 1/8" bolt).

I would suggest no gear ratio smaller than 3.55 if you want your truck to remain reliable.