Towing Upgrades

[the_hammer]

Hey guys,

This has probably been asked before, but I couldn't find it.

I am going to be using my bone stock 06 F350 for towing my skidsteer. The total trailer weight will be around 9500 lbs.

I am wondering what would you all reccomend as necessary mods to the truck to keep everything from blowing up.

Thanks,

 

[NASCAR Mike]

Increase the air pressure in the tires. Check all fluids. Watch your gauges while towing (temp and trans temp).

Other than that you will be fine.

 

[bushpilot]

Mike's advice is good.

Install a transmission temp gauge (the factory gauge is worthless), and
install an EGT gauge and watch your coolant level carefully.

Beyond those things you might consider an MBRP exhaust system it
will lower the EGTs a bit if you install a turbo back MBRP exhaust w/
their free-er flowing muffler & install a cat-delete/test pipe.

If you wanna do a bit of maint. <you should be doing xtra
if youre towing, anyway>...flush the tranny completely...
refill it w/ MERCON SP , changing the factory by-pass
filter of course.

drain/change the rear diff gear lube (refill w/ royal purple synth)
and install a 2008 alum. diff cover (50 bucks)....to help lower the
temps in the rear end.

 

[ktpauley]

Just a little tidbit about the factory trans temp gauge. Last weekend mine went 0, check gauges light came on, and Tow/Haul light started to flash at 110* according to the Autometer C2 gauge. The trans shifted fine, and me Autometer gauge never hit 150*. The temp sensor in the trans took a crap. Keith

 

[bushpilot]

the factory trans & oil gauges are for **** !
there not even good idiot lights (w/ pointers) !

and heres the PROOF -->

Page 56: Electrical Components - OIL PRESSURE SWITCH
ITP Diesel PROVES the Factory Trans Gauge SUX

 

[ckamp52]

you dont "need" anything to keep your truck from blowing up. the trucks are made for towing. a f350 is rated at like 18k or something like that not sure on exact figures but...