The F150 is one of the best towing pickups in its class. But can you upgrade your F150 to tow more? We've researched towing capacity so you'll know the limits of what you can do.
You cannot increase the towing capacity of the F150, technically. What you can do is add hitches, air springs, and bump stops to improve the towing performance of your truck. Towing mirrors also help improve your drive.
If you are planning on pulling a heavier load, it might be a good idea to get another truck with a bigger capacity.
While you can't increase your towing capacity, we'll take a closer look at how to improve your towing performance. We will also share tips on how you can have a safe drive while towing.
Tips On Improving Towing Performance
According to consumer reviews, the F150 is a tough workhorse. You can use this truck for your towing needs.
Of course, each vehicle comes with a manufacturer-recommended maximum towing capacity. And if you are wondering if you can increase the towing capacity, the answer is no.
Technically, you cannot alter the towing capacity of the F150 because you might affect its performance. You could also put the lives of your passengers in danger if you push beyond your towing capacity. You may also be vulnerable to legal repercussions if you tow over capacity.
What you can do is improve the towing capability of your vehicle. You can invest in upgrades and more parts to help you tow smoothly and confidently.
Hitches
Hitches refer to the mounting bracket that you put in the rear part of your F150. This is where you attach the hitch receiver. It is easy to install hitches since you only need to bolt it to the vehicle.
Most F150s have built-in hitches. If you have one, there's no need to attach another. But if your current hitch becomes damaged, you should replace it immediately.
The hitch receiver works with the hitch. You will attach the trailer to the hitch receiver. Be sure to choose a reliable brand because for the best safety and performance.
There are different styles of hitch receivers, all of which are useful for your towing needs. You can even have a hitch receiver hybrid that can pull your haul on your off-road trips.
Hitch connectors also help improve the towing performance of the F150. These connect to the power supply of the vehicle to provide lighting to the trailer.
Air Springs
If you are towing a heavy load, the trailer might sway because it is not the same height as your truck. But when you add suspension, you can adjust the height of your trailer.
Air springs serve as a suspension system so that the trailer can be the same height as your F150 as trailers tend to sag when they carry a heavy load.
With the help of air springs, you can also reduce problems that usually arise when you haul or tow items. For one, you can steer and brake more easily because the air springs distribute the weight to all four tires.
Similarly, air springs help reduce the trailer sway. Since the trailer is now the same height as the truck, they are now aligned. You will no longer feel as much swaying in the trailer when the wind is strong.
Bump Stops
Bump stops help in the vehicle's suspension. These also help in absorbing shocks that your truck will take as you go on a drive. If you always use your F150 for towing, putting bump stops will greatly help the suspension system.
Bump stops are also effective in absorbing pressure due to the heavy load you carry, Experts also say that you can control your vehicle better when you have efficient shock absorbers.
Towing Mirrors
Towing mirrors are especially helpful when your trailer is wider than your vehicle.
You use the towing mirror as an extension to your existing rearview mirror. Some states in the US require you to install these when your trailer exceeds a certain length.
When the trailer you are using is wider than your truck, you will depend on the towing mirror to see farther. You will also have fewer blind spots when you install this kind of mirror.
The two types of towing mirrors are the clip-on and door-mounted mirrors. The door-mounted type is sturdier since its brackets and connections are better attached to the vehicle. You can also choose portable towing mirrors, which you can detach when not used.
Recent models also provide additional features like the brake lights and turning lights. Some models can act as power mirrors because of automatic adjustment, heating, or defogging.
Click here to see towing mirrors on Amazon.
Thoughts About Increasing Towing Capacity
The suggestions we mentioned only help to improve your towing capacity. It is never a good idea to attempt to add towing capacity because you might get into legal trouble.
There have been cases when drivers have lost their licenses after accidents when towing over capacity. Insurance companies are also likely to increase your liability when towing too much.
If you need a bigger towing capacity, it is better to look for another truck that meets your needs.
The Importance of Proper Hitch Usage
A study from Purdue University discusses the proper use of trailer hitches and stresses the importance of using the right hitch for your load.
Aside from the trailer hitch, the driver should also be mindful of the other components such as the receiver and inserts. These should also be in good condition since the load will connect here. The attachments should also be free from rust, too.
This study also emphasizes that some road accidents can be prevented if the vehicle owner takes the time to attach the trailer properly.
Safety Tips When Towing A Trailer
Driving with a trailer requires extreme care because you are hauling another vehicle. State officials recommend that drivers conduct a pre-trip checklist before taking out their trailer for a trip.
Some things you should always check are the tire pressure, lights, and mirrors. If your trailer comes with brakes, you should also check if these are still operational.
You should also ensure that the hitches are properly connected as well as check the security chains and secure their connections. Put the safety chains below the trailer tongue. You also want to make sure that the license plate is visible.
It's also a good idea to have a spotter when driving in reverse with a trailer. But if there is no spotter available, the driver should clear all possible obstructions before driving.
Most importantly, the driver should concentrate on backing up by removing distractions such as turning off the radio.
While on the road, drivers should not speed. Driving slowly is the way to go. They should also keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them. In addition, driving in rural areas requires keeping at least 500 meters distance from other vehicles.
Finally, when the trip is over and it's time to remove the trailer, it is recommended to lock all tires in place.
Which F150 Has The Best Towing Capacity
An F150 outfitted with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is the engine most suited for towing. It has a powerful engine and has the most capacity to carry various weights. Its maximum towing capacity is 13,200 lbs.
Key Takeaways
The F150 is known for its powerful engine. It should not be a surprise that the trailer owners prefer to use the F150 for their towing needs.
It might be easy to get carried away with towing a heavy load. But it's never a good idea to go beyond the truck's towing capacity.
You cannot increase the towing capacity of your F150, but what you can do is add some parts like hitches, air springs, and mirrors to improve the towing performance of your truck.
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