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A properly equipped Ford F-150 can tow anywhere from 5,000 pounds up to 13,500 pounds, depending on engine choice, drivetrain, cab and bed configuration, axle ratio, and towing package. It’s one of the most capable half-ton trucks available — especially for Oklahoma drivers who tow regularly. Read on to see how engine options, real-world limits, and Shawnee driving conditions affect towing.
When people ask, “How much can a Ford F-150 tow?” they’re usually comparing it to other half-ton trucks for work, recreation, or weekend towing. The reality is that towing capacity isn’t a single number — it’s a range influenced by how the truck is built. Understanding those details is especially important for Shawnee drivers who tow boats, campers, equipment trailers, or livestock across highways, gravel roads, and rural terrain.
The highest-rated Ford F-150 can tow up to 13,500 pounds when properly configured. This rating is achieved using the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with the correct axle ratio, rear-wheel drive, and factory towing equipment.
| Engine | Maximum Towing | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | Up to 13,500 lbs | Large campers, equipment trailers |
| 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 | Up to 12,900 lbs | Consistent heavy towing, V8 preference |
| 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid | Up to 11,200 lbs | Towing with better fuel economy |
| 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | Up to 8,400 lbs | Light trailers and daily driving |
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is the strongest towing engine in the F-150 lineup. Its turbocharged torque arrives early, which is critical when pulling heavy loads from a stop or climbing Oklahoma highway grades.
The 5.0L V8 remains popular with drivers who prefer a traditional powerband and engine sound, while the PowerBoost Hybrid is ideal for drivers who tow frequently but still want improved fuel economy and onboard power.
Tow packages include upgraded cooling, hitch receivers, trailer sway control, and wiring. In Shawnee’s summer heat and mixed road conditions, having the right tow package ensures both safety and comfort.
Many Shawnee buyers assume engine choice is all that matters — but towing capacity is also affected by vehicle configuration. Longer wheelbases improve stability, while drivetrain choice can slightly change maximum ratings.
| Configuration Factor | Effect on Towing |
|---|---|
| Longer Bed | Improves stability and increases capacity |
| SuperCrew / SuperCab | Balanced comfort and capability |
| 4x2 Drivetrain | Often slightly higher max tow ratings |
| 4x4 Drivetrain | Better traction on wet or gravel roads |
Payload is the amount of weight your truck can carry — including passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight. In real-world towing around Shawnee, payload limits often matter more than maximum tow ratings.
For example, a heavy camper tongue plus passengers and gear can exceed payload capacity before reaching max tow numbers. Choosing the right configuration ensures safe, legal towing.
Shawnee-area drivers regularly tow boats to lakes, campers across I-40, and equipment through rural Pottawatomie County roads. Hot summers, sudden storms, and mixed terrain demand strong cooling, stable suspension, and reliable torque delivery.
| Local Driving Factor | Why It Matters | F-150 Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Highway Towing | Stability at speed | Long wheelbase and trailer sway control |
| Gravel & Rural Roads | Traction and durability | Available 4x4 with locking rear diff |
| Oklahoma Heat | Cooling under load | Heavy-duty cooling with tow package |
Joe Cooper Ford offers a wide selection of Ford F-150 trucks, along with financing, trade-in tools, and towing guidance tailored to Oklahoma truck owners.
Joe Cooper Ford
4921 Automall Dr., Shawnee, OK 74804 · (405) 273-7701
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