What Upgrades Are Needed For Heavy Towing With a 2010 Ford F-150 Platinum
Question:
I have a 2010 F150 platinum with the heavy duty tow package. Same tow package as the Harley Davidson F150 i have the short bed 5.5. I have the stock suspension. Do I need any upgrades? What are the differences from a ball/ hitch towing and fifth wheel towing? I read something about 15 on hitch vs: 20-25 fifth wheel? What is that?
asked by: Don
Expert Reply:
If you will be towing a heavy trailer with your 2010 Ford F-150 Platinum then a set of suspension enhancements as well as a larger transmission cooler will certainly provide benefits. The suspension enhancements are going to not only make for a better ride while towing but will also help to improve the longevity of your existing suspension components. The supplemental transmission cooler will improve the performance of your transmission while towing as well as improve its longevity.
For a set of suspension enhancements, I recommend the Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System part # TFR1502D because they are very easy to install and provide great support. For a supplemental transmission cooler, I recommend the Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit part # D13504 because of the plate-fine design and its increased cooling capacity. You will also need the Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for Ford and Lincoln part # D13024 for installation.
In regards to the different types of trailers, you are correct in that a bumper pull trailer will have a tongue weight which is typically 10-15% of the trailers gross trailer weight whereas a 5th wheel trailer will have a pin weight which is typically 20% of the trailers gross trailer weight. However, the 5th wheel towing capacity is typically more than the bumper pull towing capacity for most trucks. Also, since you have a bed shorter than 6-1/2' long you will need to use a rotating pin box for cab clearance.
Although you can tow a 5th wheel trailer with a half ton truck (F-150), a bumper pull trailer would be much less of a hassle and create less stress on the vehicle.
Products Referenced in This Question
Derale Radiator Adapter Fittings for Ford and Lincoln
- Accessories and Parts
- Transmission Coolers
- Radiator Adapters
- Derale
more information >
Derale Series 8000 Plate-Fin Transmission Cooler Kit w/Barb Inlets - Class IV - Efficient
- Transmission Coolers
- Plate-Fin Cooler
- Full-Size Truck
- SUV
- Standard Mount
- 11W x 12T x 7/8D Inch
- With 11/32 Inch Hose Barb Inlets
- Derale
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System
- Vehicle Suspension
- Rear Axle Suspension Enhancement
- Jounce-Style Springs
- Extra Heavy Duty
- Timbren
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