Can an F-150 Tow a Travel Trailer that Weighs 6,900 lbs

Updated 04/17/2020 | Published 11/15/2011

Products Featured in This Question

Reese Weight Dist Shank - 12-1/4" Long - 2" Drop to 6-1/2" Rise - 1,500 lbs TW

(64)

$172.40

Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution w/ Sway Control - No Shank - 12 lbs GTW, 1,200 lbs TW

(76)

$855.32

Question:

Can axle distance make a difference in towing, including power? 144 inches vs 119 inches. I am towing a 6900 pound travel trailer with a 2006 Ford Expedition and wonder if a F150 will be different even though they have the same engine

asked by: Joe

Expert Reply:

There are many factors that affect towing capacities of vehicles. Nearly every component in the power-train and suspension is a factor for the overall towing capacity. The distance between the axles will make a difference also. The longer the wheelbase the less the front suspension of the vehicle will unload when there is weight on the rear of the vehicle.

With that being said, the easiest way to determine if your vehicles are capable of towing your 6,900 lb travel trailer would be to consult the owners manual of your vehicles to determine the towing capacities of the vehicles and then compare that to the weight of your trailer and see if it will work. Weight distributing systems should be used any time the trailer weighs more than 50 percent of the vehicle's weight.

The most important factor for picking out a weight distribution system is the tongue weight of the trailer. In the FAQ article I attached it describes how to determine tongue weight. Typically tongue weight is 10-15% of the overall trailer weight. So the tongue weight of your trailer is probably somewhere around 900 lbs. If that were the case you would want a Strait-Line Weight Distribution w Sway Control # RP66074. I attached installation instructions and a review video for this product for you to check out also.

expert reply by: Jameson C

David S.

4/16/2020

What type of trailer hitch can I use pull a 22ft spread axle travel trailer with a 2006 ford f150 xlt crew cab short bed?

Chris R.

4/17/2020

The highest capacity trailer hitch available for your 2006 Ford F-150 is the Draw-Tite # 41933, which has a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. Please keep in mind though that you're still always limited by the capacity of the truck itself. I recommend verifying its limits by checking your owner's manual or contacting a local Ford dealer with your VIN.