Any Max Tow experts out there?

[FordestGump]

I have a 2023 XLT loaded with a max tow package on order. Once it arrives the dealer is going to install the Fox 2.0 leveling as well as a Fox stage 2 exhaust and CAI. The salesman called today asking why I would get the Max tow as he said it's going to ride rough as s*** but every roush truck I drove has the Max tow and I thought they rode great. Any thoughts or expert opinions on this would be appreciated. The most I'll likely tow is a pair of jet skis or small travel trailer.

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[isthatahemi]

My 2022 Lariat 3.5 LWB MaxTow rides better than my regular tow pack 2020 XLT of very similar configuration (sold). Definitely not firmer. The maxtow truck is a a tad firmer than my regular tow pack '22 lariat 5.0
Salesman has no idea per the usual arrangement. HDPP trucks are very firm riding though.

 

[Zengineer]

I had a 2020 FX4 and now a 2022 non- FX4 Max Tow. On decent roads there is very little ride difference. The OEM shocks are the weak link with any new F150. I put FOX 2.0 rears only on my 2022.

So no, Max Tow won't give you a harsh ride but with no big towing plans I wouldn't get it over standard tow package. The main difference, assuming you get the elec locking rear by other choices, is just different leaf springs and a slightly beefed up hitch receiver/bumper.

 

[hotrodmex]

The main difference, assuming you get the elec locking rear by other choices, is just different leaf springs and a slightly beefed up hitch receiver/bumper.

You're missing probably the biggest thing to come with MaxTow and that's the 9.75 HD (3/4 float) version of the axle. Though, I'm not sure I'd call that a plus at the moment.

 

[Zengineer]

You're missing probably the biggest thing to come with MaxTow and that's the 9.75 HD (3/4 float) version of the axle. Though, I'm not sure I'd call that a plus at the moment.

Yes, I didn't want to jinx myself by bringing that up, but yes another reason to avoid if you have no real need for it.

 

[Mosey]

My 2021 max tow rides way to soft for my liking, probably due to the 18-inch wheels. My previous truck, a 2015 Canyon had a firmer ride. I don’t plan on making any changes except possibly putting on Bulstein 5100s on the rear.

 

[12Lariat21]

Bigger axel, bigger rear brakes, larger trans cooler, better resale, there isn't a reason to not get max tow, IMOP. Funny a salesman would steer you away, even if it did ride rougher, they are suppose to upsell you not down sell...unless he was trying to veer you toward a truck they had on the lot.

The max tow gets an extra leaf spring, but it doesn't even come into play until you load the back end down. Ride is the same as all other 1/2 ton trucks. Factory shocks are junk, you'll have rear chatter over sharp bumps, and front will float like a ol' buick. I put the bilstein 5100 front and rear on my truck, sooo much better.

 

[Bluesman]

I have max tow and it's fine, but I'm also a 157" WB and I have CCD.

 

[DBL R]

Bigger axel, bigger rear brakes, larger trans cooler, better resale, there isn't a reason to not get max tow, IMOP. Funny a salesman would steer you away, even if it did ride rougher, they are suppose to upsell you not down sell...unless he was trying to veer you toward a truck they had on the lot.

The max tow gets an extra leaf spring, but it doesn't even come into play until you load the back end down. Ride is the same as all other 1/2 ton trucks. Factory shocks are junk, you'll have rear chatter over sharp bumps, and front will float like a ol' buick. I put the bilstein 5100 front and rear on my truck, sooo much better.

Negatives: lower payload numbers and axel bolt dilemma.

 

[RossRR]

Until Ford fixes the problem with the axle bolt failure on that Max Tow, I'd steer clear of the Max Tow package. Maybe the salesman was trying to help him out without actually mentioning the broken axle problem.

 

[{tpc}]

I've not experienced a rough ride on my max tow. Its been in the dealer for at least 2 oil changes, and (knock on wood) I must not have the axle bolt issue, as no one has said anything.

 

[BHunted1]

Checked my right rear bolt. Still there. Still have slight knocking at low speed like backing into my driveway.

 

[Chris2117]

I have a 21 Lariat PB Fx4. I’ve considered swapping out the shocks and leveling the front as well. Does anyone have any recommendations? I don’t want to lower my payload or towing so I’m curious how the Bilsteins or the Fox 2.0 would affect that.

 

[stonefly]

I've got 23K miles on my '22 Powerboost with Max Tow. Never once have I thought the ride was harsh.
My towing setup is discussed here: https://www.f150gen14.com/forum/thr...ndering-if-i-made-a-mistake.16950/post-340625

Generally I thought the ride was a bit soft, with behaviors noted by posters above.
Keeping my stock 20" tires at 45 PSI and adding rear sway bar radically improved handling, towing or not.

I've not felt the need to change the shocks.
I've had the axle bolt fault. I was favorably impressed that it only took a week for the repair, as opposed to the months to get the exhaust coolant valve leak repaired.

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