How to Determine the Towing Capacity of a 1997 Ford F-150

Updated 09/19/2016 | Published 09/17/2016

Question:

Can I tow my 2003 Dutchmen Classic bumper pull trailer with my 97 Ford F-150?

asked by: Gary

Expert Reply:

From my research your 1997 Ford F-150 could have a maximum towing capacity up to 12,700 pounds if it's properly equipped. Exactly what your truck can pull depends on a number of factors like the engine size, transmission, and cab style. You should be able to look in your owner's manual and match up your truck's specs to see where your max is.

If for some reason you aren't sure about the specs of your truck another way to find its towing capacity is to find the gross combined weight rating (GCWR) on the specs label on the vehicle, located in the driver's side door jam. This tells you the maximum weight your truck can haul including the truck itself, cargo and passengers in the truck, plus the weight of a trailer.

Once you have your GCWR you'll want to load your truck up as if you were going to be on a trip in which you'll be towing the Dutchmen and then take the truck to a vehicle scale and weigh it. Subtract the weight of the loaded truck from the GCWR and this will tell you how much weight you can tow. If don't know the weight of the Dutchmen you can weigh it on the scale is well, preferably loaded as if you were going to be towing it. This isn't the easiest way to find out what you can tow but it's a sure thing.

If you find that you are able to tow the trailer, but it weighs more than 50 percent of the weight of your F-150, you will want to look at a weight distribution system. If you provide me with the numbers you determine once you weigh everything, including the trailer's loaded and ready to tow tongue weight, I'll be happy to recommend a proper system for you.

I've attached some links on weight distribution and how to find out your trailer's tongue weight. As well as a link to our complete selection of weight distribution systems.

expert reply by: Charles S