Thread: Towing Capacity

I recently bought a 2009 F-150 with the 5.4 V-8 and it has a towing capacity of 7400 lbs. I would like to upgrade it to be able to tow 10,000 lb. I have been told, it has more to do with the computer than the differential, etc.. Any help appreciated?





Smitty

You’re confusing GVWR with towing capacity. It should be able to tow more than 7,200 lbs.

https://www.fordf150.net/2009/2009-f...ifications.php

Originally Posted by traxem

You’re confusing GVWR with towing capacity. It should be able to tow more than 7,200 lbs.

https://www.fordf150.net/2009/2009-f...ifications.php

I was basing my remarks on what the ford dealership told me. I see what you are talking about and according to the chart, my truck with a 5.4 V8 4x4 with 3.31 differential should be able to tow 8100 lbs...To get to the 10,000 I would still have to change the differential and compter...
Thanks for the info



Smitty

I think when you’re saying computer, you’re thinking of a tune. That might increase power, but I think it might be more physical than that. With a Super Crew, the truck’s overall extra weight decreases tow capacity. If you put 10,000 lbs on the hitch, the rear end will likely sag or bottom out. No tune can fix that. The only way to address that is with a suspension upgrade (maybe different leaf springs).

I would start looking at the suspension before the tune. The V8 itself can probably handle the tow, but the truck might not.