Tow Vehicles

rcnight · #1 01-03-2006, 11:16 PM

I know much has been written on the subject, just wanted to get some specific feedback from f150 owners. I'm looking at used ford f150s, auto w/either the v6 4.2 or v8 4.6 liter engines to tow my 20'SF with galvanized dual axle trailer. Is there that much difference in towing performance for Florida use? I don't usually go to any really bad ramps, never had any trouble w/my V6 Explorer(except when the doors locked and I didn't have the code on a busy Sunday afternoon). My very tired 300k mi Explorer won't make another season.

Ikan Besar · #2 01-03-2006, 11:19 PM

I've used three different Jeep Cherokee's to tow SeaCraft 18's and 20's over the past seven years and they are far less of a tow vehicle than an F150. I think either of the ones you propose would do just fine....and then some.

ScottM · #3 01-04-2006, 11:17 AM

The 4.2 V6 is more than adequate for towing a 20-footer. Fuel economy between the 2 engines won't be too far apart since the V8 won't work as hard as the V6 to tow the load.

FELLOW-SHIP · #4 01-04-2006, 11:20 AM

I had a 1997 F-150 with the 4.6 automatic and the limited slip rear end. Worked great on a 18’ boat. Then I went with a 23’ SeaCraft and was a little sluggish at 90,000 miles I had to do a transmission job even though I changes transmission fluid every 40,000. I now have a 2005 F-250 and that transmission is bigger. If I were you I would go with the 4.6 automatic and the limited slip rear end.
FellowShip [img]/images/graemlins/cool.gif[/img]