I've got a really random one here I think... When I bought my 2016 Screw Platinum 3.5 Eb, 4x4 (used), I was told it had the Max tow package. And it's my understanding the max tow package includes: 4 pin/7 pin harness (check), Class IV receiver hitch (check), integrated brake controller (check), 36 gallon fuel tank (check), auxiliary transmission and engine oil coolers and upgraded front stabilizer bar (I'm not knowledgeable enough to identify), and a 3.55 rear differential. I also have the Pro Backup Assist feature - not sure if that's even an option without the Max Tow package.

So... it would seem I do indeed have the Max Tow Package... However, when I check the Rear Axle code on the Safety Compliance Certificate Label, my axel code is L3. According to Ford's 2016 RV& Trailer towing guide, L3 indicates my rear axle is a 3.31 ratio, not the 3.55 (which is an L9 axle code).

So do I not have the Max Tow Package? Could I have all the other options but not the 3.55 axle ratio? I can't imagine the axle code could be wrong, but I can't imagine I could have all the other Max Tow Package options and not have the Max Tow Package... And I'm not sure if it technically matters, I don't believe max trailer weight/towing will be impacted (my trailer is dry 5,400 and GVWR 6,900 so well within specs - in fact, payload is obviously my limiting factor, not trailer weight).

Again, maybe it's a moot point, it's just been eating at me and I can't come up with an explanation and/or if it matters at all... Anyone else have a similar experience or any thoughts on how my truck could be configured like this without the 3.55 ratio? Or if there's some other issue this will cause that I need to be concerned about? Or just tell me I'm WAY overthinking this and go have some fun with the new truck and trailer... Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!!!

Putting Bilstein 5100s on Friday, picking trailer up next Thursday, pictures to follow...

Hope everyone's have a great week!
Phoenix

 

Me = 2016 Max Tow FX4 Lariat. Axle code is L9. I have trailer brake controller and 7-pin.

Final comparison idea would be look at the tag on the axle housing. On one of the differential cover bolts is a tag with the axle ratio.

This will drastically affect your trailer towing experience. Especially if you pair larger tires with that Bilstein installation.

 

Looking at the features you appear at have a:
​​​​​​Trailer Brake Controller - Standard on Platinum
36.0 gal Fuel Tank - Available as stand
alone option.

The most likely explanation is you have the 53A Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package (Trailer Towing Package on Window Sticker) and the standard 3.31 Axle Ratio. That's a 16100/10700 Rating.

The alternative is you have the Pro Trailer Backup Assist ordered as a standalone option. But I have never seen this except on a fleet truck. The 53B Receiver Hitch was standard on the Platinum.

As far as I know the only difference between the 53C Max Tow and 53A HD Tow on a truck equipped like yours is the center section of the bumper and a receiver with a couple of extra brackets (and a 110/1100 or so heaver weight distributing sticker) and the 3.55 gear ratio.

Get the dealer to print out the original window sticker if you are getting it from a Ford Dealer.

"Trailer Tow Package" would be 53A HD Tow.

 

Having pulled with both a 15-16 3.31 and 3.55 3.5EB I don't agree it's drastic. 3.55 is slightly better with a 9,000 lb enclosed car trailer. 3.31 gets 1-2 mpg better.

 

Man, that is some crazy helpful information... And I'm super annoyed... I bought the truck a couple of weeks ago, from an independent shop, not a Ford Dealer, and the owner assured me it had the max tow package... Based on all the other towing features it had, I thought he was right, wasn't until I started digging into it that I discovered the axle ratio... Your analysis definitely makes the most sense...

If I go to a Ford dealer, will they print the Original Sticker off for me? Or charge me some crazy amount to do it?

I'm not super concerned with the mileage, if I tow 5k miles/year and I get 8 miles to the gallon instead of 10, costs me an extra $200-300 or so (assuming gas prices don't go back to $4/gallon!). I'm more concerned with the transmission/oil coolers (and the fact I was lied to...). Again, because of the weights I'm pulling, won't impact me much other than gas mileage, but still...

Thanks Gene and IngotFx4, really appreciate this...

 

They used to be free but they have them behind a pay wall now Try googling some of the free sites and you might get lucky (some trucks for some reason are still available). If not there are portals to pay for them. I think they are like $15 - 25.

If you deal with a Ford dealer on a regular basis call your salesman and see if he can get it for you. (you will need the VIN). If you buy the truck and still don't have one people have been successful getting one through the Customer Service number.

 

Awesome, thanks!

 

Another way is to put your vin into this website: https://www.motorcraftservice.com/AsBuilt and scroll down to line 726-12-01. The first number group will be your axle ratio. 014B is 331, 0163 is a 355 axle and 0175 is 3.73

 

Can you tell us how 53A, 53B and 53C would show up?

Oops! Just realized that's the module build data. Wouldn't think the towing package would be in there.

 

STX 4x4 3.5eb. 2017. Came with pro-trailer backup. 3.31s, no max tow.