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  • New tow vehicle configuration - am I missing anything important?

    Good morning everyone.

    Yesterday I looked over the GM line, and sat in a 2021 Denali and looked over thier towing set up (controller, hitch/pucks ease of access to interior plug, etc.) was OK but seating and gauge layout after setting for 15 minutes imaging I was towing just did not fit my dimensionally challenged body. I did the same in a 2021 F250 (lariat trim). Nothing really available in an F350. So I have decided to order and that is where I need your collective wisdom.

    So for proper towing of my Reflection 220RK I am considering the following.

    I decided on an F350, Crew Cab, Long bed (8') single rear wheel to get the 48 gallon fuel tank. Plenty of room in the cab for Emma my 120 lb GSD. 8' bed for standard 5th wheel hitch and not worry about cab clearance in tight turns. Its also 4x4 standard.

    Single rear wheel. By choosing the 11,400GVW package (shows up as 12,400 on build sheet) I am about equal to what my 04 F350 CC LB Dully is now (11500 GVW) CCC will actually be higher with the new truck I believe. Going SRW saves on tires and better handling in the snow.

    Chose 6.7 power stroke comes with 10 speed trans. I selected this over the 7.3 gas with 10 speed. Reason 7.3 gas is close to my current 6.0 HP but less torque. I believe I need the power I current have at least with my current 5th wheel. I am at altitude which means the 7.3 power numbers will be less. Also want some fudge room of a future possibly bigger trailer.

    Rear axle ratio. With the 6.7 there is the 3.31 and 3.55 I chose the 3.55 with electronic locker for better traction in slick situations kike wet grass or mud. My current 04 has 4:10. I wanted the 3.73 but its not available with the 6.7. If I was choosing the 7.3 I could get the 3.73, but it was recommend I go to the 4.30 for my trailer with the 7.3 gas.

    Seating - with my body shape I need the deluxe 10 way seats. I chose the KR option to get them, plus the color is better than the other choices. They are actually heated and ventilated for better driving comfort. My current seats while heated are not ventilated and can get a bit sticky on long drives.

    The KR also comes with the Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System with Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ this might be overkill but the camera system will help I believe.

    KR package comes with 20" wheels and tires. I assume this is OK. 2021 models had a choice that included the 18* wheels where you could get the camper package to get a rear sway bar on the truck. My 04 has the sway bar. Will I need a sway bar with the 20" wheels. I know Helwig makes a good one, or I can possibly get a Ford one installed if the truck does not come stock with it.

    5th wheel hitch prep - need this and it comes with the built in brake controller and inside plug. I also choose the goose neck option - need that for my other trailers.

    Alternator. Ford no longer offers dual alternators, but by choosing the rapid cab heat I get the max 397 amp one.

    Bed step - got this to be able to reach the inside 7 pin plug. Saves me toting my stool around.

    I got the skid plates to protect the plastic fuel tank and trans. My 04 has them and I can see a few dings from running over road debris.

    KR comes with the tailgate step for easy bed access to set hitch and work with cargo.

    Bed - 8' as stated above but I did not get the spray in bed liner or other extras. I plan to put in another bed rug as I have now. Easier on the knees and not as hot.

    Upfitter switches - wanted these to control extras like a dc-dc charging system and additional lightning.

    LED headlights - folks say they are a good option to get for better night vision.

    The KR comes with some other nice features which I will not go into as they don't directly relate to towing

    Am I missing anything I need or should have to safely tow better?

    Thanks
    Keith


    2018 Reflection 150 Series 220RK 5th whee, Star White 2022 F350 King Ranch CC Long bed (HAL) (CCC 4062lbs), B&W 25K OEM Companion,. SteadyFast system, Trailer reverse lights, rear receiver spare tire holder, storage tube, sumo springs, Victron MultiPlus 12/120/3000, Solar, Custom 6K axles upgrade, and other modifications.

  • #2
    Sounds like you covered it. I tow my 310GKR with a 2017 lariat diesel it tows well.I purchased it with the tow package with sway bars and fifth wheel gooseneck prep package. I really like the engine brake and transmission brake. I also am a fan of the hill lock when stopped on grade and taking back off. Mine is a short bed and I use a demco auto slider. The one thing I can say about the hitch it is heavy and if removing by yourself it is best if you have some sort of hoist. I went with 20 inch wheels and put retractable bed steps on each side to get into the front of the bed behind the cab. The camera for the bed makes hooking up easy.
    2017 F250 Diesel Superduty SRW SWB
    2020 Solitude 310GK-R

    Comment


    • #3
      Hi Keith,

      Good choices. I have a similar truck in the F-250 with the 7.3 -- preferred the IFS good ride and simplicity of the gas engine. With premium fuel, it runs fine with the 15K fifth wheel (22.5K on a 26K rating).

      I added Firestone air bags and an Airlift wireless compressor -- runs well at 38 PSI.

      You will be happy with the 6.7 and SRW. It will not downshift as often as the 7.3 gas engine. The 48 gallon tank is great, but I do feel quite patriotic when I fill it with premium gas and pay the CA gas tax.

      Best,

      Charles

      Paint Magnetic No Secondary Color
      $2,045 Powertrain 7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 Engine 4X2
      TorqShift® 10-speed Automatic Transmission with Selectable Drive Modes
      $390 4.30 Electronic Locking Axle Ratio
      $1,125 Chrome Package
      $710 LARIAT Value Package
      10,000/9,900 GVWR Package
      $1,600 Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System with Pro Trailer Backup Assist™
      $375 Tailgate Step with Tailgate Assist
      $595 Bedliner – Tough Bed® Spray-in
      $500 Fifth Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package
      $125 Universal Garage Door Opener
      Interior Black Premium Leather Premium Leather-trimmed 40/Console/40 Front Seats
      2021 Solitude 310 GK-R. 2020 F-250LB, 7.3L, 4.30, Reese 27K

      Comment


      • #4
        Sounds like my rig, except I have the xlt, Fx4 trim. I never felt like I was out of engine capacity.. Wolf Creek Pass was a piece of cake. I miss the powered steps. Really like 48 gal fuel capacity. Don't forget to turn off interior sensors when you leave the dog in the locked truck. It's a stretch to reach the hitch latch and oh-no brake cable attachment.
        Ted
        2021 Reflection 310RLS
        2020 F350 PS,CC,LB,SRW

        Comment


        • #5
          Originally posted by Crespro View Post
          Hi Keith,

          Good choices. I have a similar truck in the F-250 with the 7.3 -- preferred the IFS good ride and simplicity of the gas engine. With premium fuel, it runs fine with the 15K fifth wheel (22.5K on a 26K rating).

          I added Firestone air bags and an Airlift wireless compressor -- runs well at 38 PSI.

          You will be happy with the 6.7 and SRW. It will not downshift as often as the 7.3 gas engine. The 48 gallon tank is great, but I do feel quite patriotic when I fill it with premium gas and pay the CA gas tax.

          Best,

          Charles

          Paint Magnetic No Secondary Color
          $2,045 Powertrain 7.3L 2V DEVCT NA PFI V8 Engine 4X2
          TorqShift® 10-speed Automatic Transmission with Selectable Drive Modes
          $390 4.30 Electronic Locking Axle Ratio
          $1,125 Chrome Package
          $710 LARIAT Value Package
          10,000/9,900 GVWR Package
          $1,600 Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System with Pro Trailer Backup Assist™
          $375 Tailgate Step with Tailgate Assist
          $595 Bedliner – Tough Bed® Spray-in
          $500 Fifth Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package
          $125 Universal Garage Door Opener
          Interior Black Premium Leather Premium Leather-trimmed 40/Console/40 Front Seats
          Charles,

          The 7.3L is regular fuel recommended. Unless Ford is posting some verbiage that premium should be used for towing or for increased performance, there is no benefit in using premium fuel. No additional fuel system cleaning as well.

          Jim

          Comment


          • #6
            Yoda
            Hi Keith,
            You have selected a very similar truck to the Lariat that I have on order. Seat comfort was a big difference between the Ford and GM . . . which had a big influence on our choice.

            I would have liked to get the 8 ft box . . . but, it makes (non towing) parking even more of a challenge. (There was no way that Cate was going to buy into this). Turning radius is 2.5 ft more than the wheelbase with the 6.5 ft box and this is 5 ft diameter increase on a U turn. Based on conversations with other owners, I think the shorter wheelbase and box will work out OK . . . as long as I don't try to make 90 degree backing turns . . . which is really tough on the trailer suspension anyway.

            I went with the base 3.31 axle ratio. With 10 transmission gears and 1000 lb-ft of torque . . . I don't think we need to worry as much about axle ratio as we did with half that torque and a 3 speed transmission .
            I chose the 18" wheels . . . thinking that this will lower truck ride height (at least a little) as compared to the 20" wheels and tires.
            If you have not had the tailgate step before . . . you are really going to like this.
            I got the camera systems . . . should be a good option based on the dealer demo. I also got the trailer TPMS system and sensors.
            I did not spend the $1000 on the LED headlights . . . base on other discussion on this forum, maybe I should have . . . still seems really expensive. We don't go off road and seldom travel at night.

            I was close to getting an F250 with the 7.3L which has about the same payload as an F350 with the diesel. Given our future plans for travel that will take us through the Rockies more than a few times . . . I opted for the diesel and got the F350. (An F250 diesel has less payload than my HDPP F150 )

            Rob
            Cate & Rob
            (with Border Collies Molly & Angel + Kitties Hazel & Elsie)
            2015 Reflection 303RLS
            2022 F350 Diesel CC SB SRW Lariat
            Bayham, Ontario, Canada

            Comment


            • #7
              Its a shame that the seats in the GM were not so good. I've read some threads where the seats in older models such as my MY15 sierra are much better. Looks like they need to do something about that. But again, it's all based on how it fits. I've tested many Fords where the seats have a great deal of lordosis where my back is much straighter and as a result were not comfortable for me. For others, it obviously works. The key here is to have the adjustability to accommodate all cases. I've always stated internally that the interior including a great Audio system is key since this is where we spend our time. For threads such as this, towing and payload and especially fuel economy are also important.

              Jim

              Comment


              • #8
                I have the F250 with 10,800 GVWR with the diesel. My payload is 3166#. Your payload will probably be around 3600/3700#. If this is enough, you're probably good to go. I have the 3.31 rear which works very well with the 10 speed. You'll be just fine with the 3.55. A 3.73 with the 10 speed doesn't make sense to me.

                Everything else makes me jealous

                Allen

                2021 Momentum 21G

                Comment


                • #9
                  Originally posted by acoleman43 View Post
                  I have the F250 with 10,800 GVWR with the diesel. My payload is 3166#. Your payload will probably be around 3600/3700#. If this is enough, you're probably good to go. I have the 3.31 rear which works very well with the 10 speed. You'll be just fine with the 3.55. A 3.73 with the 10 speed doesn't make sense to me.

                  Everything else makes me jealous
                  The only "comparably equipped" F250 that the dealer was able to show us had a label payload in the 2500 lb range. They did not have an F350 to compare. I would like to think that payload will be in the 3600 lb range, but will be happy if it clears 3000 lbs. Ford is way behind GM in making this information easily available. Every number related to hauling or towing, that you might wish to know about a GM truck, is on a label on the door frame.

                  Rob
                  Cate & Rob
                  (with Border Collies Molly & Angel + Kitties Hazel & Elsie)
                  2015 Reflection 303RLS
                  2022 F350 Diesel CC SB SRW Lariat
                  Bayham, Ontario, Canada

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Has Ford quietly matched GM's max payload on the SRW trucks of 12.400 lbs?. GM has a 12,400lb max GVW option on thier web page, Ford only shows a max 11,400 GVW option on thier build site for SRW. However I just got an official Ford build quote (preview order) that shows 12,400 GVW option. Order codes are correct that this is a SRW (salesman verified). If so this is a pleasant surprise.

                    Guest Jim - Thanks for the thoughts. I have a short round body (5'-6") I think GM is tailored for 6' folks. But my hiney and back just did not fit and the side support was a bit sloppy no matter how I adjusted it.. Just my opinion. Towing and fuel mileage numbers are almost equal. And while I have not hears it the KR has the high end stereo option, but strangely enough we don't listen to music while traveling.
                    acoleman43 Thanks for the thoughts. Payload is more than enough for my 220RK. As Rob Cate&Rob mentions getting that number takes a bit of work, and if Ford did increase the GVW to match GM I have lots to play with.

                    Thanks for the help folks.

                    Keith
                    2018 Reflection 150 Series 220RK 5th whee, Star White 2022 F350 King Ranch CC Long bed (HAL) (CCC 4062lbs), B&W 25K OEM Companion,. SteadyFast system, Trailer reverse lights, rear receiver spare tire holder, storage tube, sumo springs, Victron MultiPlus 12/120/3000, Solar, Custom 6K axles upgrade, and other modifications.

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      GVWR on the door post of my 2020 f350 is 12, 400 lbs.
                      Ted
                      2021 Reflection 310RLS
                      2020 F350 PS,CC,LB,SRW

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Originally posted by TedS View Post
                        GVWR on the door post of my 2020 f350 is 12, 400 lbs.
                        Thanks Ted Interesting. I wonder why the web site says 11,400. Maybe a ploy to sell more dully's If I may ask what is your cargo capacity. I know mine would be different, but close. Also do you have the rear sway bar? Wondering if it makes any difference towing. I know your unit is a bit bigger than mine. Just wondering

                        Thanks - Keith
                        2018 Reflection 150 Series 220RK 5th whee, Star White 2022 F350 King Ranch CC Long bed (HAL) (CCC 4062lbs), B&W 25K OEM Companion,. SteadyFast system, Trailer reverse lights, rear receiver spare tire holder, storage tube, sumo springs, Victron MultiPlus 12/120/3000, Solar, Custom 6K axles upgrade, and other modifications.

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Payload is 4,585 lbs. 3.55 electronic locker. Yes, swaybar; trailer sway control. Snow plow/camper package and 5th wheel prep package.
                          Even with the 3.55 ratio there is enough torque that the 10-speed stayed in 9th gear cruising in cruise control for most of my I70/I80 trip to PA. I selected out 10th gear. 7th gear is 1:1; 8, 9, and 10 are overdrive.

                          Click image for larger version

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                          Last edited by TedS; 09-01-2021, 10:51 AM.
                          Ted
                          2021 Reflection 310RLS
                          2020 F350 PS,CC,LB,SRW

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Originally posted by TedS View Post
                            GVWR on the door post of my 2020 f350 is 12, 400 lbs.
                            Must be the long bed vs standard bed. My 2020 F-350 SB Platinum SRW door sticker GVWR is 11500 lb
                            U.S. Air Force Retired
                            2021 Solitude S-Class 3550BH-R
                            2020 F350 SB SRW Platinum

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Yes, see my signature.
                              Ted
                              2021 Reflection 310RLS
                              2020 F350 PS,CC,LB,SRW

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