So I’ve kinda decided that I kinda want a F150 Raptor. I’m looking at buying new, probably 802a. Problem is that I like to take my TJ jeep wheeling and I tow it to places. My current set up is an 18 ram 2500 diesel and I pull it on a 16 foot trailer.
I know that it is in the spec range to handle the weight but I’m just curious how they handle going down the road. Does it struggle on hills? I’m not talking about Towing cross country. The furthest travel is about 200 miles from my house.
I’m aware that it will not compare to a heavy duty truck pulling it.
I tow an 18-foot toy hauler that weighs around 4,300 pounds dry, and it’s much heavier when loaded with dirt bikes, a generator, full water tanks, and so on. I can confidently say that the power is more than sufficient.
The most important thing you can do is invest in a good weight distribution hitch and ensure your trailer is loaded properly for weight distribution. With a well-adjusted WDH, I don’t think you’ll run into any issues.
I’ve towed the maximum weight of 8,000 pounds, and it was… pretty sketchy. I installed Deaver springs, got a tune from Goosetune, upgraded the bump stops and track bars, and switched to E-rated OEM tires instead of C-rated ones.
It made a huge difference, but it still won’t tow like a Ram 2500.
Edit: These trucks tend to get hot when towing up long inclines, so it’s essential to invest in good coolant and oil. I also highly recommend the Willwood brake kit—it made a significant improvement.
I have a small pop-up tent trailer that weighs 2,500 pounds. I can definitely feel the weight, but my truck handles it without any issues; it’s a 2018 802A. I also own a 2023 4Runner TRD Pro, which I’ve towed the trailer with. Personally, I think the 4Runner tows better, but I haven’t done a lot of towing yet, and my trips have been relatively short—the longest was about 80 kilometers.
They can handle moderate loads reasonably well, but they’re not designed as tow rigs. I know people will say, “I tow my ____ all the time,” and I get it—I have a travel trailer too. I’m just saying, if towing is a primary need for you as a truck owner, I would recommend considering something else.