Is 2008 Ford F-150 Supercab Capable of Towing 7800 LB Travel Trailer

Question:

I have a 2008 ford supercab that is rated to tow 8200 pounds. I am looking at a rv that weigh 7800 pounds . Can I tow it with my truck.

asked by: Paul

Expert Reply:

Since you mention that your 2008 Ford Supercab has a towing capacity of 8,200 lbs, your truck would be capable of towing the 7,800 lb travel trailer/RV but there are a few things that you will want to keep in mind.

1. The towing capacity of your truck is the maximum amount of weight that your truck is capable of towing. This includes the weight of the trailer as well as anything in it. If 7,800 lbs is the dry weight, you will want to keep this in mind when loading the trailer. Remaining capacity is only 400 lbs for cargo, etc.

2. Ensure that you aren't exceeding the capacity of another component in the towing set-up like the hitch or the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the truck. Exceeding any vehicle/component weight rating limitation could result in serious damage to the vehicle and/or personal injury.

3. Installing a transmission cooler, like the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets, # D13503, would be a great idea especially if you will be towing through hilly and mountainous areas. Using the Derale cooler (11" Wide x 8-3/4" Tall x 7/8" Deep) will prolong the life of your transmission as well as improve performance.

4. For bumper pull trailers we always recommend using a weight distribution system if the trailer weight is more than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight or when towing to the highest capacity allowed by your vehicle's trailer hitch setup. When choosing weight distribution you will need to go by the tongue weight of the trailer when loaded and ready to tow plus the weight of anything loaded behind the rear axle of the tow vehicle. If the tongue weight falls between 600 - 1200 lbs, take a look at our Strait-Line Weight Distribution System with Sway Control, # RP66074.

This system evenly distributes weight over the axles of tow vehicle and trailer for stability and control, creates a more level ride for both tow vehicle and trailer, and includes dual-cam sway control that works to stop sway before it starts. You will just need to add a shank, # RP54970, and a ball to this system using # A-90 for a 2 inch or # 19286 for a 2-5/16 inch.