Big Blue
Well-Known Member
I like your way of thinking. You are looking at the carefully and all the factors and ratings. Just remember any modifications you have made to the truck from stock that add weight, like racks, tonneau covers, lights, step guards, bigger tires, also reduce you maximun payload number. Also don't forget the weight of the weight distribution hitch head, that can be close to a 100 pounds.I think some of the confusion is from the phrasing of my question, my apologies . I have no doubt the engineers at Ford came to this number carefully and backed my models and testing.
Everyone's comments have been very helpful and I think the best way to approach a final number is to work backwards.
1. Take the truck max payload capacity and see how much that will cut into your max tongue weight.
Example: (human weight + things in the cab you need + things you plan to put in the bed) - Payload capacity = available tongue weight. Take this or 750, which ever is smaller.
2. Take the the tongue weight from step 1 and compare that to the trailers GVWR. My reading say 10% to 15% of the trailer should be on the tongue so (tongue weight / .10) > trailer GVWR.
Example Say I only have 600# of payload remaining, staying on the safe side 15% on tongue means I should keep GVWR under 600 / .15 = 4
Assuming the trailer GVWR isn't exceeded, this setup should be safe to drive.
Also consider truck GCWR, which I don't think should be exceeded following this process, but we should be diligent to verify.
Thoughts?
Like I keep saying that 7500 pounds is a maximum number under the right conditions. It is best to look at the Ford towing guide for all the conditions and footnotes. You Re correct in not exceeding the GCVWR but also consider looking at the rear axle weight rating as shown on your door sticker.
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