F250 to tow 27-Ft. Overlander

[ecotrailer]

Hi everyone!

I think I'm on the verge of getting the right truck for my Airstream finally, but it doesn't have as high of a tow rating as I would like so I want to make sure it's really enough. I have a 27-ft. Overlander: it does not have the original interior so some of the new components might add a little weight though probably not too much, and I don't keep other things in there while towing except for lightweight items like tinfoil, paper plates, TP, etc.

Anyway, the truck I'm considering is a Ford F250 with a V8, 5.4 engine, 8300 lb. tow rating.

Yes or no? I'm hoping it's yes!

The guy selling the truck (used car lot) says it is "tow-ready" and that is has towed before. Are there other questions I should ask about the tow package to make sure it can really handle this trailer?

Thanks everyone!
EcoTrailer

[Ganglin]

I'm towing a 71 Overlander with a 5.9L Magnum V8/245 HP Durango. It's rated at 7,300. We always tow with the fresh water tank full.

I've not had any problems with it so far.... but then again we're not planning on a trip over the Rocky Mtns. either....

[whitelight]

Depending on the year & model, the F series Superduty trucks have an optional integrated trailer brake controller. This controller is the best brake controller that we've used in over 30 years on any vehicle.

As well, what is the rear end ratio & type of transmission? If you google Trailer Life towing guides, you can look up the towing specs for your specific truck.

The F250 with the 5.4 will probably handle your 27' Overlander. We owned a 74 31' Sovereign, which weighed in at 6900 lbs fully loaded for travel. We towed it for a few years with a 95 Chevy 2500 with a 5.7 liter V8 (pre Vortec) This combination did fine on the flat - greater than 6% grades were a problem, though, as the small block V8 lacked the torque to dig in & climb. This was especially a problem if we had to slow down going up a hill. We travel mostly in the west, so yes, we do climb the Rocky Mountains!

[ecotrailer]

Thank you for this help!
Well, I'm not planning on going over the Rockies any time soon, but I do live at a slight elevation in the foothills of the Berkshires -- 2000 ft. so nothing like the Rockies and I think unless I head far West I should be okay.

It's a '98 if that does make a difference. I should have said that before.

Many thanks & happy trails!

EcoTrailer

[whitelight]

This is the 1999 towing guide - don't have the 98 one, however the specs for 99 are similar.

Note that there are many factors in determining the towing maximums, i.e. tranny, 2WD, 4WD, rear end ratio, etc.

Hope this helps