Community Forums

msisco · 12-10-2016, 05:13 PM

We're buying a used Coachmen TT, will be towing it with a 2001 F150 4x4 with 135,000 miles. I've checked towing capacity, max for the truck is 6,100 the trailer empty weights 4,500 so I'm at or near the edge there.
The truck does have a class III tow package.
Figure at the very least I need to replace the rear shocks (would appreciate recommendations!), add a trailer brake controller and maybe new tires.
Other suggestions would be appreciated!

nosticks · 12-11-2016, 06:14 AM

Shocks all the way around, your load equalizing hitch distributes weight across the entire truck. You are planning on a good equalizer hitch, right? Brake controller and larger mirrors on the list. Check the capacity of that Class III hitch. Watch your weight. It's surprising how quickly gear, supplies, and water (8.3 lbs per gal.) will add to the trailers weight.

msisco · 12-11-2016, 07:18 AM

Thanks for the reply! Had not considered an equalizing hitch. Got a good source for hitches, mirror extensions & such? I live in a rural area, RV dealers are few & far between.

nosticks · 12-11-2016, 08:55 AM

I too live in a rural area. You'll need to find a dealer for the hitch and don't even think about not using one. My guess is that your truck sits up high enough that the hitch will need a drop to tow level. Good luck.

RPreeb · 12-11-2016, 09:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nosticks

I too live in a rural area. You'll need to find a dealer for the hitch and don't even think about not using one. My guess is that your truck sits up high enough that the hitch will need a drop to tow level. Good luck.

You can buy hitches online, and most aren't that difficult to install. Amazon sells several. I'm ordering a Husky Centerline w/800-1200 bars for my 5500 gross TT (I like the Husky because it comes with the hitch ball installed and torqued. Also the price point is a bit better than most others.). Like the OP, I tow with an F-150, but it's a 2016 with tow package, so the specs on it are a lot higher than his are.

msisco · 12-11-2016, 09:55 AM

After watching some videos I'll definitely will be buying an WD hitch.
Just discovered another issue: Label on the factory receiver says max tounge weight is 500lb. Listed weight on the trailer is 600. Probably be adding a new aftermarket hitch too.

Just realized the 500lb limit is if the ball is mounted on the bumper itself. The data label on the receiver hitch has been painted over, not sure what it's rated at.

gap23 · 12-11-2016, 10:14 AM

Don't forget a transmission cooler, and sway control.

dcarver · 12-11-2016, 11:02 AM

Limit on the receiver with a equalizer hitch will probably be around 1k so you'll be fine. What engine and rear end ratio do you have? I had the 4.6 with 3.55s and it couldn't tow our 4500lb loaded TT without staying in 3rd and dropping into 2nd when going up and overpass in West Texas.

msisco · 12-13-2016, 07:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dcarver

Limit on the receiver with a equalizer hitch will probably be around 1k so you'll be fine. What engine and rear end ratio do you have? I had the 4.6 with 3.55s and it couldn't tow our 4500lb loaded TT without staying in 3rd and dropping into 2nd when going up and overpass in West Texas.

4.6, 3.55 & 17" wheels. We live in the flatlands, hills are few & far between. Most trips will be to a state park about 30 miles away.

msisco · 12-13-2016, 07:16 AM

Well, it's all ours as soon as I write a check!
Bought it from a private seller, will have to tow it home (2-3 miles) before I can get the equalizer hitch and install it. Think that will cause any problems?

dcarver · 12-13-2016, 08:04 AM

No you'll be fine without the hitch that long. I'd even do the 30 without a WDH because I have before. Longer than 60 miles I'd get one.

Deny · 12-18-2016, 04:46 PM

I think you should keep an eye out for an F250

Given the age of your 150, I think You're asking a little much out of the old girl

I could be wrong, but, I think you will find that out yourself.

Just nurse it along until you get the bigger tow vehicle.

LarryW21 · 12-19-2016, 07:13 PM

"At or near the edge" and with 135,000 miles on the truck. Why?

tuffr2 · 12-20-2016, 02:30 PM

2001 was not a good year for trucks. Weak frames, weak engines, lousy crash test results, and rust. First good year was 2009 with 2011 being the best single year advancements in trucks.