2023 Ford Trucks: Let's Talk About Towing Capacity

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2023 Ford Trucks: Let's Talk About Towing Capacity

Posted on July 29, 2023

Towing capacity is an important aspect to consider when considering any truck purchase. The new 2023 models from Ford offer a wide range of features and varying capabilities when it comes to towing. While it may be less needed for personal use, if you frequently use a trailer or tow a caravan, knowing the capacity is a must.

 

What Is Towing Capacity and Why Does It Matter?

Towing capacity is the recommended and often legal maximum weight that a vehicle can pull. This value is important for both legal and safety reasons, as accidents can occur should the maximum limit be ignored. It's important to note that the capacity listed is given with only the driver occupying the vehicle. Having passengers and heavy cargo will affect towing capabilities and should be considered before towing.

 

What Happens If You Go Over the Maximum Capacity?

Going over the maximum capacity can have several issues. A higher weight than your vehicle can handle may lead to trailer swaying, issues when climbing hills, and difficulty when braking. However, the maximum capacity limit is rated with braking, climbing hills, and driving on the highway in mind. 

 

A Comparison Between Ford Trucks

Below is a list of Ford's Trucks and their towing capacity, performance, and fuel efficiency to provide a comparison between models.

 

Vehicle	Starting Price*	Towing Capacity (pounds)	Engine	Horsepower / Torque	Fuel Economy (City / Highway L/100 km)
Maverick	$31,100	4,000	2.0-litre Ecoboost	250 hp / 277 lb-ft	10.9 / 8.4
Transit	$49,930	7,500	3.5-litre V6	275 hp / 262 lb-ft	12.8 / 16.7
F-150 Lightning	$79,000	10,000	Dual electric motors	337-433 hp / 1,050 lb-ft	Electric
Transit Connect	$36,070	2,000	2.0-litre GDI	162 hp / 164 lb-ft	9.8 / 8.9
Ranger	$38,480	7,500	2.3-litre EcoBoost	270 hp / 310 lb-ft	11.8 / 9.6
F-150	$46,055	14,000	3.3-litre V6	290 hp / 265 lb-ft	12.2 / 9.8
Super Duty	$58,479	30,000	6.8-litre V8	405 hp / 445 lb-ft	N/A

 

How Do Horsepower and Torque Affect a Truck's Towing Capabilities?

 

Relating to your acceleration, horsepower is the vehicle statistic that measures the maximum power output when you're looking for speed. Torque is the opposite, concerning the ability to get the car moving again after it's stopped. Both affect towing capacity as more power is needed when accelerating and starting to move after stopping when you're towing a weight behind you. 

 

Due to these reasons, trailers without brakes rely on torque and horsepower from your engine for stopping as well. Additionally, as these engine statistics directly affect towing, going over the capacity can harm your truck's engine.

 

Tow With Care

Always pay attention to your vehicle's tow capacity and the weight inside, as too large a weight will slowly damage the engine and may even be a safety hazard on the road.