Towing smaller trailer

[tim665214]

I have a 2022 F-150 with the Powerboost engine. I have a small RV that probably weighs ~1800 lbs loaded. Should I be using tow/haul mode? I noticed the truck was shifting out of 10th and into 9th quite a bit on the highway. Maybe just lock out 10th? What would be your suggestions as to maximize towing performance for a light trailer?

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[RedTXV]

I'm not a towing expert, but with that weight i would use tow/haul mode.

I towed 24' bay boat this weekend and locked out 9/10 and it worked great.

 

[kevdog0710]

Did you monitor trans temp? I would use tow mode, the transmission is probably 10 grand to replace

 

[Csvt18]

Tow haul mode is available for a reason. It changes rpm shifting intervals to save trans from higher temps. Do this and lockout 10th and possibly 9th gear your good to go.

 

[Pedaldude]

...the transmission is probably 10 grand to replace

I can't imagine a transmission R&R running longer than 10 hours book time, even with silly computer programming shit.

 

[Ziggy73]

I have a 2022 F-150 with the Powerboost engine. I have a small RV that probably weighs ~1800 lbs loaded. Should I be using tow/haul mode? I noticed the truck was shifting out of 10th and into 9th quite a bit on the highway. Maybe just lock out 10th? What would be your suggestions as to maximize towing performance for a light trailer?

I myself use normal or eco to tow. The only time I really need tow haul is for engine braking, but I can do that manually myself by locking out. By using normal or eco I'm still getting electric when I coast into towns, sitting at a light, etc. I've heard many that do the same thing and just lock out 9th and 10th. Heck, when I first got my truck I even saw my tow haul mode remain in 10th while towing so the engineers have not programmed it in to keep the transmission safe in my eyes. Mine's a September 21 build, so maybe they have upgraded the driving modes better by now, but mine still shift into 9th and 10th in that mode. But I would never let a heavy load or a moderate to light load pull in 10th, those overdrive gears are not made for that in my opinion.

 

[Buyer2021]

What would be your suggestions as to maximize towing performance for a light trailer?

My suggestions ....

• If you're a FORScan user, do the mod to display digital temps for tranny and engine coolant
• Experiment - with / without tow-haul; with / without 10th then 9th gear lockout

Everyone's driving habits, terrain, trailer characteristics (weight and frontal area) are different. Experimenting won't harm anything and will likely guide you to the 'best' settings for your specific case.

In my own experimenting (with a not-so-small trailer) I keep an eye on temps and boost gauge, seeking to reduce 'boost excursions' and keep temps lower (it's a balancing act). My (or anyone else's) settings may not be 'best' for your specific situation. Note you might find a change of settings beneficial when conditions change (e.g. entering mountains / steep grades; facing a stiff headwind, etc).

Just for your consideration, Happy Trailering!

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