Thanks for all your replies. The
Ford truck I have is an F150 5.4 litre V8 with heavy duty towing package, 4X4,
limited slip differential and 6600 payload. In other words it was supposed
to be a hauling truck! I didn't go with the F250 because the engine is the
same, so at worst I expected to replace the wheel bearings, ball joints,
brakes and other connecting pieces, but NOT the transmission or transfer
case or front differential! I even took my loaded rig (2-horse straight
load aluminum gooseneck trailer) to the weigh-station and I am well within
recommended guidelines. I hear ya about the 3/4 ton being better if you
can afford it, but when the engines are the same in the two vehicles and the 1/2
ton has all heavy duty components, I was told it would be okay. The new
Chev and GMC heavy duty trucks are advertising "nearly 3/4 ton hauling
capabilities in a 1/2 ton truck". It's a bit confusing to say the
least.
