How Big of 5th Wheel Can a 2018 F-150 Pull

Question:

We are looking to purchase a Grand Design 5th wheel with a weight of 9600lbs. We have a F-150 super cab Short box 2018 Ford with a v-8 Can we pull this wit our truck safely?

asked by: Sheri T

Expert Reply:

I looked up the owner's manual for your 2018 Ford F-150 and the towing capacity is going to be between 8,900 and 10,200 lbs. The reason there is a range is because it depends on how the truck is equipped, from the engine, to axle ratio, 2WD or 4WD. I recommend contacting your local dealer so they can see exactly how your truck was equipped and what it's rated for.

Since your F-150 has a 6 foot bed you want to use a fifth wheel hitch with a slider. I recommend the Curt A16 5th Wheel Trailer Hitch w/ R16 Slider # C16521, and the Fifth Wheel Installation Kit for Ford F150 # RP50087-58.

It has a 16,000 lbs Gross towing weight, and 4,000 lbs Vertical load limit so it would be more than enough for the Grand Design you're looking at.

For fifth wheel wiring I recommend Bargman 5th Wheel/Gooseneck 90-Degree Wiring Harness for Aluminum Truck Bed # 50-97-410-010. This gives you a fully functioning 7 way trailer connector in the bed of your truck, so you don't need to drape the cable over the tailgate. It does come with aluminum mounting screws too, so no need to worry about the aluminum bed sides.

Something else to consider is a suspension upgrade, you don't want to be feeling all the bumps and have a harsh ride when hookled up. The Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System # TFR1504E is what I recommend.

I linked all the parts above, as well as a few videos for you to check out as reference.