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Helper springs for F-150
There are folks here that know a lot about trailoring. I don't, but I do have attitudes, and not very helpful ones for what you want. Maybe somebody will tell me I'm entirely wrong, but I think my notions might be useful to consider in what ever is decided. First thing is that I have a '89 F150 2wd, and I didn't get a trailer for my tractor. The load not including trailer would be 3,000 - 4,000 lbs, and I think my 150 would be a very marginal tow vehicle. A 4x4 does have lower gearing and probably a manual TX, which would be better, but the brakes and vehicle weight probably are the similar.
My attitude is that a trailer should never be able to outmuscle the tow vehicle. If tongue weights are properly adjusted and the springs are inadequate, then a heavier truck probably is desirable. As I understand, the trouble with weight transfers on bumps is that what goes down must come up. Upward momentum can break traction of the rear tires. Springs support loads and dissipate downward momentum, but it's shocks that dissipate upward momentum. I think it would be good to get an expert opinion if shocks that are adequate for expected tongue weights and momentum are available for a 150.
After I bought my 150 used, I found several broken leafs that I replaced, and I also had the front springs replaced and the rears re-arched. I also found the automatic TX had burnt oil, and I rebuilt it. These sorts of things can result from excessive tow loads, and it would have been better if I had noticed them before buying the truck.
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Helper springs for F-150
Good info here. Much as Peters noted, the towing probably can be done, and Peters has done it. From past discussions, it is apparent that Peters knows quite a bit about this stuff and acts with due caution. However, solving the problem may be a bit more involved than adding helper springs.
Adjusting tongue weight is important, and I think 10% - 15% of load on the tongue is a rule of thumb. Of course, if it's stock in the stock trailer, they may resent placement to achieve optimal tongue weights. My neighbour put on a weight distributing hitch on his 150 for towing a travel trailer. He has nothing but good words for it.
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